Building the Future Equipment Workforce

Whether you’re a student, educator, dealership, or industry partner, the AED Foundation offers programs and resources that strengthen the equipment industry’s talent pipeline. Explore the opportunities below to learn how you can get involved.

For High Schools

AED Foundation Recognized High School Program

Introduce students to careers in the equipment industry through industry-aligned technical education and hands-on learning.

Resources

• Learn about becoming a Recognized High School
  • Application
  • Find a Recognized High School Near You
• High School Improvement Fund Grant
  • High School Grant Guidelines
  • High School Grant Letter of Recommendation Template

For Colleges

AED Foundation Accredited College Program

Accreditation recognizes programs that meet industry-developed standards and prepares students to graduate as AED Foundation Certified Technicians.

Resources

• Post-Secondary Accreditation Brochure
• Accreditation process
• Find An Accredited College Near You

Grants & Funding

The AED Foundation provides resources to help schools strengthen technical education.

Available Opportunities

• High School Improvement Fun:  AED Foundation is launching a new grant program to support AEDF Recognized High School programs with funding for equipment, materials, and supplies—made possible through a gift from Caterpillar Inc.—that enhance hands-on training and student success.  Apply for up to $10,000 – Rolling Applications through 2026.  Contac Bryna Ryan, bryan@aednet.org for more information.
• The AED Foundation’s Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) helps employers create U.S. Department of Labor–recognized apprenticeships that connect businesses with motivated students — including high school apprentices — preparing for high-demand careers. Contact workforce@aednet.org for more information.

Workforce Research

The AED Foundation is committed to understanding the equipment industry’s workforce challenges through ongoing research and data analysis. Our industry reports provide valuable insights into technician shortages, hiring trends, workforce needs, and emerging opportunities.

These findings help guide the Foundation’s workforce development initiatives while giving dealers, educators, and industry leaders the information they need to make informed decisions.

Resources

• Utilizing Foreign Born Talent to Address the Workforce Shortage
• The Impact of the Technician Shortage on the U.S. Economy