FRCC-Mazda Partnership Puts Students on Fast Track to Technician Jobs
Front Range Community College is launching a partnership with Mazda North American Operations that will transform its Automotive Technology program into a factory-aligned training and recruiting channel for Denver-area Mazda dealerships, beginning fall 2026.
"This collaboration is exactly the type of industry-aligned partnership that helps our students move directly into future-ready jobs," said FRCC President Colleen Simpson. "We are grateful to Mazda for investing in our students and supporting Colorado's workforce."
Colorado projects roughly 1,400 annual technician openings through 2032. With unemployment at 3.9% in November—below the national 4.6%—the state faces stiff competition for skilled workers.
FRCC's Westminster campus awarded 246 automotive certificates and 21 associate degrees in the past year—among the state's largest training outputs for technicians.
Through the Mazda Automotive Student Training (MAST) program, Mazda will supply two late-model vehicles annually, plus additional training vehicles, along with diagnostic tools, software, service information, and training materials matching dealership equipment.
"This partnership gives our students a true industry-ready experience," said Soley Belt, Department Chair of Automotive Technology at FRCC. "Access to late-model vehicles and Mazda's professional diagnostic platforms ensures our students are training on the exact tools and technologies they will see in the field. This strengthens our program and directly supports our students' pathways into high-demand technician careers."
Mazda dealers will recruit directly from FRCC, giving qualified students a competitive edge for technician positions.
"Mazda is very pleased to partner with FRCC and address the industry wide need for educated technicians together," said Tim Kosnar, Program Manager for Mazda's technician recruiting, training and retention programs. "Solutions like the Mazda Automotive Student Training program help properly prepare students for careers in the automotive industry and provide them with a competitive hiring advantage."
The MAST program launches fall 2026.