“This scholarship reflects TIA’s ongoing commitment to education, workforce development, and the long-term success of the tire industry,” said Dick Gust, TIA CEO. “By partnering with the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, we’re helping to create a stronger pipeline of skilled professionals who will drive our industry forward.”
In addition to TIA’s donation, Bridgestone has also added $5,000 to the fund and will add another $5,000 per year for the next five years. Meanwhile, Yokohama has also pledged $10,000 to the scholarship, which will be hosted on the University of the Aftermarket Foundation website.
Applications for the scholarship are open through March 31, 2026. This year, the program is offering eight $2,500 scholarships for a grand total of $20,000.
To qualify, applicants must be pursuing a technical career in the tire industry or in other tire service operations, including passenger, light truck, commercial, industrial, farm, and earthmover, as well as repair, retreading, and recycling. Additional qualifications include:
Plans for a career in the tire industry, including sales, marketing, manufacturing, customer service, engineering, supply chain, IT, business administration, legal, regulatory, or finance
Are attending or planning to attend a full-time program at an accredited institution or an ASE/NATEF-certified postsecondary auto, collision, or heavy-duty technician training program
Candidates must have minimum 2.5 GPA high school GPA
Candidates must list a TIA member company or individual in good standing as part of their application
The TIA also noted that some awards will be available to employees of automotive and tire companies and their families.
