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

From Wayne Gretzky’s wisdom during the Keynote Breakfast to REPAIR Act momentum – key aftermarket insights from AAPEX 2025

Two students from North Kansas City Schools broke down and reassembled a Chevy 350 engine in 1 hour and 44 minutes; AAPEX to make student competition an annual event.

In an opinion piece published by Ward’s Auto, Bill Hanvey, CEO, Auto Care Association, says a key to solving the auto technician shortage is to change the perception of the job, compensation and career prospects.

AAPEX has extended the deadline for its all-new Student Engine Assembly Competition to September 15, 2025. The competition is a timed event where teams of vocational students will race to disassemble and reassemble a Chevy 350 engine.