The Young Auto Care Network Group (YANG) and the Automotive Warehouse Distributors Association (AWDA), both communities of the Auto Care Association, are now offering young industry professionals a chance to experience first-hand how the Auto Care Association and various aspects of the auto care industry work through participation in the Next Step program. The Next Step program offers future leaders the opportunity to become involved in the industry and trade association by awarding scholarships to attend the Auto Care Association’s Spring Leadership Days, May 9-11, at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis in Atlanta, Georgia.
“Applicants selected for the program are our industry’s future leaders,” said Bill Hanvey, president and CEO, Auto Care Association. “Many former Next Step participants have gone on to serve on Auto Care Association volunteer committees. This is an excellent opportunity for young professionals to come and build their networks and to take the initial step of getting involved in the industry.”
Isabel Burton, a 2017 Next Step program scholarship recipient, said, “If you are serious about being among the next generation of leaders in the auto care industry, the Next Step Program is one of the most valuable experiences that is out there for both personal and professional growth. Being able to participate in the open sessions, mingling with VPs, CEOs and making connections and taking the initiative to apply for the program demonstrates how passionate and serious you are about your career growth.”
At the Auto Care Association’s Spring Leadership Days, Next Step program participants will have the chance to participate in committee meetings and networking events with veteran industry leaders. In addition, 10 Next Step program participants will receive a scholarship of up to $1,100 to offset most of the expenses for travel and accommodations to, from and during the event. Most meals also are included.
Interested applicants must be a member of YANG and employed by a member company of the Auto Care Association. To access the official Next Step Program application, visit the Auto Care Association website at bit.ly/NextStep2018 or by contacting Courtney Hammer at [email protected]. The deadline to apply is March 2.