The Tire Industry Association (TIA) announced the Tire Industry Scholarship, created in partnership with the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, to support students pursuing higher education or trade programs related to the tire and service industry. Through the initiative, TIA is contributing $5,000 to help students preparing for careers in tire maintenance, tire repair and broader automotive repair.
“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. “We’re helping to create a stronger pipeline of skilled professionals who will drive our industry forward.”
Industry Support
Bridgestone matched TIA’s $5,000 contribution this year and pledged an additional $5,000 per year for the next five years to help grow and sustain the scholarship program. Yokohama also pledged $10,000 to expand the scholarship fund.
Debra Hamlin, a TIA past president, championed this effort. Bridgestone is challenging others in the tire industry to contribute to the scholarship fund.
The Tire Industry Scholarship will be hosted on the University of the Aftermarket Foundation website. Applications are open through March 2026.
Scholarship Eligibility
TIA prefers applicants who meet the following qualifications:
- Are pursuing a technical career in the tire industry or related tire service operations across all industry segments. That includes passenger, light truck, commercial, industrial, farm and earthmover, as well as repair, retreading and recycling.
- Are planning a career in the tire industry in areas such as 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 college or university. Or an ASE/NATEF-certified postsecondary automotive, collision or heavy-duty technician training program.
- Some awards will also be available to employees of automotive and tire companies and their family members.
- Candidates must have a minimum 2.5 high school GPA to be considered.
- Candidates must list a TIA member company or individual in good standing in the “Aftermarket Affiliation Information / Sponsor Info” section of the application.
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