Title: Compton’s Automotive Highlights Career Pathways in Auto Repair for the Next Generation
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- Jul 21
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 29
By Sam Ettaro for Put Tools in Schools
Charlotte, NC — In a time when schools across the country are scaling back their trade programs, one Charlotte business is stepping up. Compton’s Automotive, led by longtime technician and business owner Todd Compton, is a shining example of how industry leaders can help shape the future for students exploring career options outside the traditional college path.
“We’ve gone to the high schools and I’ve spoken to some of the students there,” Compton said during a recent career awareness video shoot. “They don’t know about these types of careers. Some of them have amazing minds, but they’ve never had the direction or path to get their hands on something like this.”
The Disconnect: Decline of Auto Programs in Schools
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, serving one of the largest metros in North Carolina with 33 high schools, currently offers only four automotive programs. That’s a staggering decline considering the ongoing demand for skilled labor in the automotive repair sector.
“It’s terrible out there,” one of the interviewers noted. “We’re not giving these kids the tools—or even the awareness—to pursue these opportunities.”
A generation ago, trade courses like auto shop and woodshop were common in public education. Today, many students graduate without ever handling a wrench or knowing what a Phillips screwdriver is. “You’re not going to tell a 13-year-old to go take apart a car if they don’t even know what a flathead is,” Compton said. “It could be dangerous—for them and the car.”
“Some students have amazing brains, but they’ve never had the direction or path to get their hands on something like this.” – Todd Compton
An Industry in Need of Talent
The automotive repair industry is not only hands-on and mentally engaging—it’s also stable and well-paying. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for automotive service technicians and mechanics was $48,960 in 2023, with top earners making more than $75,000. And with electric vehicles and onboard tech advancing rapidly, the industry is evolving into a hybrid of hands-on work and high-tech diagnostics.
Despite these opportunities, the auto repair workforce is aging, and the pipeline of young talent isn't keeping up. A 2022 TechForce Foundation report estimated a demand for over 400,000 new auto, diesel, and collision technicians from 2022 to 2026 just to meet replacement needs and industry growth.
“The only way we’re going to cross this bridge and get to the other side is if industry plays a role.” – Industry Advocate
Hands-On Experience That Builds Futures
Todd Compton didn’t come up through college—he built his 20-year business from a foundation laid in high school shop class and personal tinkering. “I started with BMX bikes, then motorcycles, then cars,” he shared. “Yeah, I blew some engines up. But I fixed some too.”
That kind of hands-on curiosity is often all it takes to spark a career. But students need access to safe environments where they can experiment, learn, and grow under guidance. “What they need is the trades back in schools,” Compton emphasized. “You can’t just throw a 16-year-old at a car engine and hope for the best.”
Beyond the workbench, Compton also offers 401(k) plans, dental insurance, and good working hours. His shop is a modern, professional environment—far from the grease-covered garages of the past. “You can get a job, have great benefits, great working hours, and love what you do,” he said.
“You can love what you do—and it doesn’t have to be a struggle.” – Todd Compton
From Wrenches to Wiring Diagrams
Automotive careers today require more than just elbow grease. With modern cars packed with software and electrical systems, mechanics are evolving into diagnostic technicians. One Compton employee put it best: “What I’ve learned working on cars has helped me in the financial side too. I think of it like a wiring diagram—I’m using the same skills to solve problems.”
Call to Action: Industry and Education Must Unite
Charlotte’s population is approaching 2.7 million, and its youth deserve access to real career options. Organizations like Put Tools in Schools and Compton’s Automotive are making a difference, but the need is greater than any one shop can fulfill. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW VIDEO:
This moment calls for a community response. Schools must reinvest in trade education. Businesses must engage students early. And students, parents, and educators must start seeing trade careers as not just “alternatives” but first-choice options.
“We need more automotive to step up,” said one advocate during the shoot. “Because these kids—like Daniel, one of Todd’s employees—they have the knack. They just need the exposure.”
It’s not all about college for everybody.
Resources for Students and Educators:
JobsInSchools.org – Automotive Careers
📌 Know a student who likes to tinker? Encourage them to explore the world of auto repair—it could be the start of a thriving, lifelong career.
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