NAPA Partnership Provides Tools, Resources, and Opportunities for UBTech Students

UBTech recently welcomed representatives from NAPA Auto Parts and NAPA Tools & Equipment as part of a long-standing partnership dedicated to supporting the next generation of automotive and diesel technicians.

Matthew Davis, National Sales Manager for Career and Technical Education (CTE), and Dave Gardner, Technical Sales Specialist for NAPA Tools & Equipment, visited UBTech to meet with instructors and UBTech representatives to discuss opportunities available through NAPA’s education partnerships.

Their visit highlighted the continued support of both NAPA’s national education initiatives and the strong local partnership with the independently owned 3rd East NAPA store, led by Chad Orme, Lynn Labrum, and Cody Labrum.

Through NAPA’s school partnership programs, career and technical education institutions gain access to valuable resources, educational programs, and industry connections that help prepare students for successful careers. As part of this effort, NAPA recently donated three apprentice tool sets and Carlyle tool carts for use in UBTech’s Automotive and Diesel programs. The equipment provides students with hands-on access to professional-grade tools while also introducing them to the types of tool packages available as they enter the workforce.

In addition to the donated equipment, students have access to significant savings on tools through NAPA’s student discount program, including savings of up to 50 percent on tools backed by lifetime warranties.

Faculty and students also benefit from NAPA’s educational resources, including the Autotech eLearning Library and NAPA TRACS shop management software, which are available at no cost to participating programs. Combined with the donated tool carts and other resources, NAPA’s recent contribution represents approximately $20,000 in equipment, software, and educational support.

“NAPA has been serving the automotive industry for more than 100 years, and we know that skilled technicians are essential to its future,” said Davis. “With a growing demand for qualified automotive professionals, it’s important that we invest in students today, support technical education programs, and help create pathways into rewarding careers.”

UBTech President Aaron Weight said partnerships like this play an important role in strengthening workforce education and supporting student success.

“We are grateful for NAPA’s continued investment in our students and programs,” said Weight. “These tools, resources, and educational opportunities help our students gain hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment and better prepare them for successful careers. Partnerships like this ensure our graduates enter the workforce with confidence and a competitive advantage.”

The relationship between UBTech and the local 3rd East NAPA extends beyond equipment and classroom resources. In 2020, UBTech and the locally owned NAPA store established a scholarship partnership that continues to benefit students across the Uintah Basin. Through the agreement, 3rd East NAPA contributes more than $3,000 annually toward scholarships, helping reduce financial barriers and support students pursuing technical education.

Three students and a instructor stand around a bright lime green Carlyle toolbox in front of a blue suburban smiling for the camera.

UBTech Automotive and Diesel students celebrate NAPA’s donation of Carlyle tool carts and educational resources that support hands-on training and help prepare the next generation of skilled technicians.

Male student looking into the bright lime green Carlyle tool box holding a socket standing in front of a yellow semi truck.

UBTech Automotive and Diesel students celebrate NAPA’s donation of Carlyle tool carts and educational resources that support hands-on training and help prepare the next generation of skilled technicians.

Eight students and a instructor surround the bright lime green Carlyle tool box posing for the photo.

UBTech Automotive and Diesel students celebrate NAPA’s donation of Carlyle tool carts and educational resources that support hands-on training and help prepare the next generation of skilled technicians.

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