The importance of career and technical education programs is apparent now more than ever. With the demand for skilled automotive, diesel and collision technicians exceeding current supply, the automotive instructor is a key piece to solving the technician shortage. The instructor must be up-to-date with the latest technologies, procedures and equipment, while motivating students and generating enthusiasm for the automotive field.

While most curriculum content has been sourced through vehicle manufacturers, a world of possibilities for training exist in the aftermarket. Some of the best automotive, diesel and collision instructors in North America integrate aftermarket products and technologies into their classroom, and yield amazing results.

In a combined effort to recognize instructors who blend the aftermarket into their classroom, the SEMA and the North American Council of Automotive Teachers (NACAT) have joined together to award and celebrate these remarkably skilled leaders with the SEMA-NACAT Foundation Award. Three finalists will receive complimentary airfare and lodging to attend the 2018 SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

During the SEMA Show, the finalists will be recognized during the SEMA Education Partners Breakfast, and from the three finalists the overall winner will be announced. The winner of the SEMA-NACAT Foundation Award will receive complimentary registration and $500 to use toward travel expenses to attend the 2019 NACAT Instructor Training Conference and Expo from July 15-18, 2019, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

The application deadline has been extended to Aug. 27. Nominees must be a current instructor of an automotive, diesel or collision program in the United States or Canada, and submit a short video along with their application. Finalists will be selected and announced by Sept. 7 and invited to attend the SEMA Show from Oct. 29-31. Application information is available here.