The AAPEX Student Program introduces students and educators to aftermarket careers through hands-on exposure, networking, and industry connections, helping address the talent shortage while bringing youthful energy to the show

LAS VEGAS – June 23, 2026 – Part of the AAPEX mission is to champion the aftermarket. In turn, championing the aftermarket requires supporting awareness and education programs that help the aftermarket attract the next generation of talent.

The AAPEX Student Program aims to do just that. We caught up with two of the key organizers – Liz Goad, who is the vice president of Events for MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers, and Jessi Finnerty, who is the director of Trade Shows for the Auto Care Association. 

Q1: What is the AAPEX Student Program?

LG: “The AAPEX Student Program is an introduction to the aftermarket. The program shows people what the aftermarket is, what career paths are available, and connects them with industry professionals. This early exposure can open up career pathways for students. There’s a side benefit too: it brings a vibrant youthful energy to the show.” 

JF: “I would add to that that the Student Program is a means to create opportunity, get young adults excited about career prospects, and really give them a chance to see the ‘hugeness’ that is the industry. The awareness they gain might cause them to think about the aftermarket in a way that’s different from their everyday experience. 

Q2: Can teachers, instructors and educators visit on their own?

JF: “Yes! The Student Program also provides instructors with the same opportunity to visit, expose them to similar experiences and perhaps just widen their perspective a little bit. That’s true for both instructors who plan to bring a group of students or simply want the education they can get at the show to bring lessons back to the classroom.”

LG: “We love to have instructors take advantage of the program because they are another touchpoint in the market who can help us build awareness about the industry. We hope it helps reinforce their passion and feed that passion into the talent pipeline.  First-time instructors can come alone and check things out, especially if they aren’t ready to bring a cohort of students yet. It’s a chance to take the AAPEX Student Program for a ‘test drive.”

Q3: What do students do onsite when they are at AAPEX?

LG: “It’s largely a self-paced program. We do curate a guide for teachers and students with recommended activities, but for the most part, instructors like having access to the show and the freedom to design a tour that best fits their needs. If an instructor has ideas for creating a program tailored specifically to their school, we are happy to work with them on ways to get more involved in the show. And if there are premium sessions or trainings they would like to attend, they simply need to ask; we do our best to accommodate them.” 

JF: “AAPEX has a lot of different programs for students that aren’t tied to the official AAPEX Student Program. For example, we hosted the inaugural student competition last year – any student team can sign up to compete independently of the Student Program. 

Similarly, we partner with other groups, such as Northwood University and separately with TechForce Foundation, to help facilitate customized programs during the show. Last year, Northwood brought a group of about 40 of its students, and TechForce brought nearly 200 students enrolled in automotive coursework from high schools located in Clark County, which encompasses Las Vegas. 

The point is, if an educator is interested in different ways to get engaged, they should feel free to reach out to us, and we’d be glad to see how we can customize their visit to accommodate their learning objectives.”

Q4: How would a teacher or school get involved?

LG: “It’s simple: visit the AAPEX Student Program page and apply. If you have issues with your application or questions, applicants are welcome to contact us ([email protected]).

Q5: Can an individual student get involved independently?

LG: “Yes, but there are a few more questions and requirements on the application. First, they have to be 21 years of age or older to apply for this option. Secondly, we check to be sure that the student is being intentional about the learning opportunity.” 

Q6: Can aftermarket businesses or exhibitors get involved?

LG: “Absolutely. Businesses that want to provide mentoring, support student networking, or, if they are an exhibitor, present a mini session in their booth, are all good options. We are also open to customizing an experience that aligns with a specific business’s goals and helps them engage with students in a meaningful way. 

In many ways, it’s the aftermarket businesses and the exhibitors that provide the reasons for hosting a formal student program – there’s a talent shortage. We hear from businesses all the time that are hiring and say, ‘We’re having trouble finding good people.’ The student program is a great way to meet and shape the aspirations of the next generation of automotive aftermarket professionals.”

Q7: Anything else to add?

JF: “We’re just looking forward to having another great year and seeing the AAPEX Student Program grow. Hopefully, for students visiting for the first time, this will be just the first of many times that they come to AAPEX over the course of a long and successful career.”

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AAPEX 2026 will be held from Nov. 3–5, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada, at The Venetian Expo & AAPEX Forum. See the exhibitor prospectus for exhibiting details. Complimentary passes are available to the media; email: [email protected].

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