Overview
Arizona has an urgent and growing shortage of qualified automotive technicians. Independent repair shops juggle customer demand, complex diagnostics, and rising costs while struggling to train the next generation of technicians.
Technician Shortage
Critical Impact on Local Shops
Hands-on apprenticeships and internships are the most reliable pathway into the trade, yet they require shop owners to redirect their limited time and resources away from billable work. Without meaningful support, many shops cannot afford to mentor new technicians, leaving the workforce pipeline thin and customers underserved.
This petition urges Arizona lawmakers to establish state-level tax credits that lower the cost of apprenticeship and internship programs in the automotive repair industry. With focused support, our local businesses can grow the skilled workforce every community depends on.
Why This Matters
Skilled Labor Shortage
The automotive workforce is aging. Without action, customers face longer repairs and higher prices.
Training is Expensive
Mentorship costs money. Tax credits help shops invest in people without risking stability.
Empower Local Business
Most shops are family-owned. Credits keep dollars circulating in local communities.
Keep Arizona Moving
From commuters to emergency services, everyone depends on skilled technicians.
What We Are Asking Lawmakers to Create
We call on the Arizona State Legislature to advance legislation establishing a state tax credit that supports automotive repair shops who train apprentices or interns.
Core Program Elements
- Annual per-apprentice tax credits that offset lost production time.
- Eligibility for both formal apprenticeships and supervised student internships.
- Access for small and mid-sized shops statewide, not just large employers.
- Clear reporting on completed hours, mentorship, and skill attainment.
- Alignment with workforce development and economic mobility goals.
Benefits for Arizona
- Stronger Workforce Readiness: Build a dependable pipeline of skilled technicians ready for modern vehicles.
- Support for Local Business Owners: Ease the financial burden on shops that invest in training.
- Expanded Education-to-Career Pathways: Connect students, veterans, and career changers with hands-on learning.
- Economic Growth: Reduce repair delays, keep fleets operational, and strengthen local commerce.
Call to Action
We, the undersigned automotive repair professionals, educators, business owners, and community members, urge the Arizona Legislature to enact state tax credits that reward shops for training apprentices and interns.
Sign below to add your voice and signal to lawmakers that Arizona is ready to invest in its skilled trades workforce.