GM Automotive Service Technicians 30 Under 30

Modern software- and EV-driven vehicles make service technicians essential to keeping customers on the road, yet the automotive industry is facing a critical shortage of qualified talent — closing that gap requires greater awareness and recognition in service technician careers.
The GM Automotive Service Technicians 30 Under 30 program celebrates the young leaders, innovators and problem-solvers in U.S. GM Dealer service bays. More than an award, it’s a platform to highlight the role models who can inspire the next generation of talent.

Key dates:

September 23 –
October 30 2026

Nomination window
January 07
2027
Winners revealed
Know a GM service tech who’s redefining the trade? Give them the national recognition they deserve.

WHAT IT TAKES TO QUALIFY

Nominate the young, GM-trained pros making your dealership proud

We are looking for proven, high-performing professionals who are already making waves in your shop. If you know an outstanding tech who meets these three criteria, we want to hear their story:

Age

29 years old or younger as of December 31, 2026

Young Auto Technician Wearing a Black Coveralls Smiling

Education

Demonstrates a commitment to continuous training

GM Automotive Technician Educational Degree with Slight Blur and Soft Lighting

Employment

Currently employed at an authorized U.S. GM dealership as an automotive service technician

Young Automotive Technician Inspecting Newly Installed Break Pads

HOW WE CHOOSE THE 30 UNDER 30

We’re grading on skill, leadership and a passion for what’s next

Our panel of judges isn't just looking at a checklist — they are looking for the future leaders of the industry. Every nominee is evaluated across four core areas:

Technical excellence

Continuously grows through training, certifications and skill-building that goes beyond their minimum requirements

Leadership

Supports students and newer automotive service technicians, modeling GM values and positively influencing others 

Customer impact

Delivers high-quality work, promotes a positive customer experience and helps build trust in GM Certified Service through strong service outcomes

Distinctiveness

Stands out as a rising star with notable momentum, recognition or uncommon impact that sets them apart

Frequently asked questions

What is GM Automotive Service Technicians 30 Under 30?

GM Automotive Service Technicians 30 Under 30 is an annual recognition program honoring 30 standout  U.S. GM automotive service techs under the age of 30 who demonstrate exceptional commitment to GM Certified Service. The program is designed to celebrate the next generation of  U.S. automotive service leaders while elevating awareness of automotive service technician career opportunities.

Why did GM launch this program?

GM Automotive Service Technicians 30 Under 30 was launched to help address the growing automotive service technician shortage by increasing awareness of these careers and the programs that support them.

What is the nomination eligibility and selection criteria?

Nominees must be under the age of 30, work as a  U.S. GM automotive service technicians, and demonstrate above-and-beyond commitment to GM Certified Service. Strong nominations should show continued technical training, exemplary customer service, mentorship and leadership, and a clear reason why they stand out. Selected nominees should be comfortable participating in speaking, press, and social media content opportunities.

Who will judge nominations?

Nominations will be evaluated by a panel of judges using defined criteria and a scorecard developed for the program.

Who can submit a nomination?

Nominations can be submitted by anyone who knows a GM automotive service technician’s work firsthand, such as dealers, service managers, customers, peers, family members, friends, or even the nominee themselves.

Can I nominate myself?

We recommend speaking with your Service Manager or Director to have them submit a nomination on your behalf.

What technician training programs does GM offer?

GM supports automotive service technician development through several programs:

 

General Motors Automotive Service Educational Program (GM ASEP) is GM’s two-year, college-based training program that prepares students to become GM automotive service technicians for Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and Cadillac dealerships through classroom instruction, hands-on training, and paid dealership apprenticeships.

 

Shifting Gears Automotive Technical Training Program helps Soldiers transition from the U.S. Armed Forces into careers as GM automotive service technicians through 12 weeks of classroom, online, and hands-on technical training.

 

The Technician Excellence Program recognizes and rewards enrolled dealership service technicians as they advance their skills, earn certifications, and continue growing their careers.

Where can I go to learn more about or apply to a GM technician training program?

To explore GM automotive service technician training pathways and find the program that best fits you, visit the GM Future Techs website. Learn more about GM ASEP and Shifting Gears by visiting the program websites.

We’re here to help

For questions about nominations or the program, please contact

JOIN THE TECHS MOVING WHAT’S NEXT

Over 1,900 students* have graduated from GM ASEP in the last five years

The GM Automotive Service Educational Program (ASEP) combines state-of-the-art classroom instruction with paid, real-world experience at a sponsoring dealership. Ready to take the first step?