When I was first was shown this method for getting first hand references on how well an applying tech preformed at their current or past shop job ,I was resistant to also using it as a second option to hiring the "reference" tech. Since then I have been able to see how effective it can be when the person applying for the experienced tech position is not at all qualified for the advertised position. Now to take it a step further it can be an additional source by asking the reference tech who was the best tech they have ever worked with to be able to expand the tech search reach when neither the original applying tech or the reference tech is a good fit for the position.

I got an email this morning from a student who is finishing up his Automotive Technology class at Walla Walla Community College and he wanted to know if I knew of any tool scholarship programs for students. I didn't have anything like this up my sleeve (yet) but I thought I'd bust out AI and give it a try. I used Perplexity.ai in the R1 mode for advanced problem solving to research programs and then I dropped the output into Gamma.app to draft it into a readable report and resource list with website links. Attached to this post is a comprehensive guide to tool scholarship programs and funding opportunities for automotive technology students, including application strategies, deadlines, and resources. Let me know if you know about any programs that I missed. Also, let me know if you care about stuff like this. If it's not useful for you, I won't post it here.

I'm getting more and more of these solicitations from mechanics who live in foreign countries with sponsor visas. Have any of you gone this route? What's been your experience? Would you like for me to connect you when I get these? Let me know. I'd love to see if this is something I should check out or if I should just delete these emails.

I just got this email from a tech looking for a good independent shop in the Baltimore area: "I'm a master tech from Portland Oregon, currently relocating to Baltimore, Maryland area, I heard you on a podcast today and was curious if you know a good shop in the Columbia/Frederick/Sykesville area of Maryland? I was with Mazda for 8 years as a shop foreman/master tech and another 7 before that as a heavy line fleet tech. I'm thinking mobile ADAS tech, DOT tech or a working in a good independent shop. I'll be there in about 5 days with my tools ready to work soon." This sounds like a great opportunity. If you are in the area and looking for a tech, let me know and I'll make the connection.