GADSDEN, Ala. — Ronnie Watkins Ford, in partnership with the Automobile Dealers Association of Alabama (ADAA), presented a $16,000 check on behalf of the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Foundation to Gadsden State Community College’s Automotive Service Technology program to support student training and workforce development.
The NADA Foundation, established in 1975, serves as the retail auto industry’s philanthropic arm. NADA represents more than 16,000 new-car dealers nationwide, advocating on their behalf before all branches of the federal government, manufacturers, the media, and the public. The Foundation promotes workforce development and technician training at franchised new-car and truck dealerships across the country.
Thomas R. Dart, president of the Automobile Dealers Association of Alabama, attended the check presentation and praised Gadsden State’s commitment to addressing industry needs.
“When talking to dealerships, their biggest challenge is finding and retaining skilled technicians,” Dart said. “We like to support programs, like Gadsden State’s automotive program, that produces quality people and prepares them for the job. It’s a win-win for everybody.”
Ronnie Watkins Ford, a long-time partner of Gadsden State, joined ADAA in presenting the donation. Jacob Vanderford, general manager of Ronnie Watkins Ford and a Gadsden State alumnus, highlighted the dealership’s continued partnership with the college.
“We have had a long-standing relationship with Gadsden State, specifically the automotive program,” Vanderford said. “Gadsden State prepares students not only for their job but for life in general. They graduate with better knowledge of how to perform and they become productive members of society and more than just a technician. The partnership has been good for many years, and we look forward to continuing it.”
Andy Robertson, dean of Workforce Development at Gadsden State, said the donation represents a strong investment in local students and the regional workforce.
“The support from the NADA Foundation, ADAA and Ronnie Watkins Ford is a huge opportunity for our students,” Robertson said. “These relationships are great for all of our industry partners. They know our students are getting hands-on, relevant training, and they can come to us for their staffing needs. Being recognized by the NADA Foundation is a privilege, and their reinvestment in our students will help the program continue to grow and develop. We’re grateful for their ongoing support.”
Alan Smith, president of Gadsden State Community College, expressed appreciation for the organizations’ continued investment in the college and its students.
“I greatly appreciate the National Automobile Dealers Association, Ronnie Watkins Ford, and all of our community partners for their continued support of Gadsden State,” Smith said. “I am especially proud of our outstanding Automotive Service Technology instructors and students. Their commitment to excellence and hands-on learning continues to strengthen our reputation as a leader in workforce development.”
The Automotive Service Technology program at Gadsden State prepares students for employment as entry-level automotive technicians and provides advanced training in diagnostics, repair, and maintenance of today’s complex vehicles.
For more information about Gadsden State’s Automotive Service Technology program, visit www.gadsdenstate.edu/tech-programs. View more photos from the event HERE.
Representatives from the NADA Foundation, the Automobile Dealers Association of Alabama and Ronnie Watkins Ford present a $16,000 check to Gadsden State Community College’s Automotive Service Technology program.
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