Washington, D.C., March 3, 2026, - The U.S. House Committee on Small Business held a hearing title “Career and Technical Education: Developing the Future of Main Street Success” to discuss the importance of Career and Technical Education (CTE) and apprenticeships in developing the future workforce.

Witnesses Included:

• Dr. Keith Gunuskey, Superintendent of Schools, Wallenpaupack Area School District
• Mr. Mike Gibson, Executive Vice President, Associated General Contractors of Kansas
• Dr. Nikki Nix, Chief Academic Officer, Godley Independent School District
• Mr. Zach Boren, Senior Vice President, Apprenticeships for America

Throughout the hearing, members and witnesses emphasized the importance of expanding and strengthening CTE programs and apprenticeship pathways to better prepare students for high-demand careers. A central theme of the discussion focused on building clearer, more seamless transitions from high school CTE programs into registered apprenticeships.

Mr. Boren highlighted the need for a more structured pathway for students pursuing apprenticeships after gaining foundational skills in high school. “CTE builds those foundational skills at the high school and community college level,” Boren stated, “but we have not yet built this pathway from career and technical education into registered apprenticeships.”

In his opening statement, Dr. Gunuskey underscored the urgent need for greater investment in Career and Technical Education, noting that the Monroe County Technical Institute “has more than 600 students waiting for admission.” These students are eager to participate in CTE programs but are unable to do so due to limited classroom space and program capacity.

Industry leaders echoed the need for expanded apprenticeship opportunities. In 2024, ASA’s own Scott Benavidez recognized the demand for a structured apprenticeship program in his hometown of Albuquerque, New Mexico and revived an old shop into an automotive learning space. Initially created to address the shortage of qualified workers in the area, the program quickly evolved into an opportunity to support students seeking alternatives to the traditional four-year college pathway.

Benavidez praised the Committee for examining the future of CTE and apprenticeship programs, recognizing their value to both students and industry. From his own experience, he has seen how apprentices not only strengthen the repair workforce but also revitalize the industry as a whole. “These students have breathed life into the school as well as collision professionals,” Benavidez said. “They make me so proud to be a part of this, and we have built relationships that will last a lifetime.”

As workforce shortages continue to challenge small businesses across the country, the hearing underscored the importance of investing in Career and Technical Education and apprenticeship programs that equip students with practical skills while supporting the needs of American industry. 

Click here to watch the full hearing.

ASA is the largest and oldest national organization committed to protecting the automotive repair industry with ONE VOICE. We are the only trade association whose board is comprised solely of collision and mechanical automotive repairers. Our members own and operate repair facilities responsible for the majority of all, post warranty, repair services in the United States. ASA advocates for the interests of its members and their customers in Washington, D.C. The education, resources, and services ASA provides empowers its members in all 50 states to remain trusted stewards of mobility in their communities. www.ASAShop.org