Michigan youth explore auto industry careers through 4-H Driven for the Future, gaining soft skills, industry insights, and hands-on learning thanks to a partnership with Toyota.
Young people from across Michigan are discovering career paths in the auto industry and beyond through 4-H Driven for the Future. 4-H’ers in the program gain insights into apprenticeships, skilled trades, and technologies like mechatronics, which combines mechanical, electrical, electronic and software engineering.
Driven for the Future is a partnership of Michigan 4-H Youth Development and Toyota Motor North American Research and Development.
From January to May 2025, young people from across the state joined monthly webinars to build essential soft workforce skills like confidence, professionalism, and resilience. From interview tips to understanding workplace culture, participants gained tools to unlock their full potential.
Additionally, students from two Washtenaw County high schools toured a Toyota facility and learned about the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) program at Washtenaw Community College, which blends classroom instruction with real-world experience.
Mike Sweers, recently retired executive vice president and chief technology officer of Toyota Motor North America and a Michigan 4-H Foundation trustee, said investing in 4-H helps expand access to life-changing programs that prepare youth for meaningful careers.
“We had our FAME apprentices lead the tours— that was ideal for everybody,” Sweers said. “The apprentices honed their presentation skills and the high-school students learned from people close to their age, showing them that these career goals are attainable.”
Learn more at: www.canr.msu.edu/driven-for-the-future/.
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