Driving Innovation: Walser Automotive Group Invests in Advanced Technician Training

This feature was created by the Minnesota State Transportation Center of Excellence. Read it on their website

by Minnesota State Transportation Center of Excellence

In a bold move to address the growing skills gap in the automotive industry, Walser Automotive Group has partnered with Anoka Technical College to support its pioneering third-year Automotive Electronic Diagnostic Specialist diploma program — the first of its kind in Minnesota.

This advanced program, designed for graduates of two-year automotive programs and early-career technicians, offers intensive, hands-on training tailored to today’s increasingly complex vehicle systems. Developed and championed by instructor Dave McFarland, whose decades of industry experience shaped its vision, the program builds on foundational skills and accelerates diagnostic proficiency — helping students gain the kind of expertise that typically takes years to develop in the field.

Meeting a Critical Need

Walser’s involvement began with a simple observation: that while their entry-level technicians were motivated to upskill, they needed a faster path to do so. “We saw a basic need,” said Lindsey Trett, Director of Talent Acquisition at Walser. “Diagnosis is the hardest part of the job, and it can take years to master. This program accelerates that learning curve.”

After seeing one of their own technicians thrive in the program independently, Walser recognized the potential and committed to supporting it — both by sending five of their own employees and by funding scholarships for non-Walser students through the Walser Foundation.

A Two-Pronged Investment

Walser’s support is multifaceted. Internally, technicians selected for the program undergo an extensive interview process and receive full scholarships, along with pay to ensure they don’t lose income while attending classes. The Walser Foundation also funds external scholarships for other students in the program, helping to broaden access and strengthen the industry as a whole.

“This is a dedicated commitment at a level that’s never happened before,” Trett emphasized. “We’re not just investing in our own workforce — we’re investing in the future of the trade.”

McFarland echoed that sentiment, calling Walser’s support a “game changer.” He noted that Walser’s contributions go beyond tuition, including pay and ongoing collaboration to align training with real-world needs.

Transformational Outcomes

The results speak for themselves. Students like Cameron and Joe — both featured in McFarland’s success stories — have made dramatic leaps in their careers. Cameron advanced to journeyman status within months, while Joe went from a cleanup tech to a lead diagnostician, passing multiple ASE certifications along the way.

“These students are gaining confidence and competence,” said Trett. “They’re contributing back to Walser in new ways, and we’re already seeing growth in their proficiency and leadership potential.”

A Model for the Future

As vehicles become more electrified and technologically advanced, the need for skilled diagnosticians will only grow. McFarland’s curriculum, built from years of dealership experience and manufacturer training, is designed to meet that challenge head-on.

Walser hopes to expand the partnership annually by selecting more technicians each year. “We’re starting small, but the goal is to build,” said Trett. “This is about keeping the trade alive and making it a career worth choosing.”

Industry-Wide Impact

Both Trett and McFarland believe this partnership can serve as a blueprint for other dealerships and industry partners. “Why not do it?” Trett asked. “We all face the same challenges. Supporting technician education benefits everyone — even our competitors.”

McFarland added, “Employers are desperate for skilled diagnosticians. Programs like this fast-track that development and give students the tools they need to succeed.”