The world of automotive technology is changing at speed, and the line between “mechanic” and “high-tech engineer” is fading with it. In 2026, Janssen Auto Group remains at the forefront in Nebraska, preparing the next generation of technicians not just to keep up, but to lead.
By combining high school partnerships with advanced certification pathways, Janssen is redefining how automotive skills are taught, showing that the best place to understand today’s vehicles isn’t in a lecture hall, but under the hood of a modern automotive dealership.
The Classroom in the Shop: High School Partnerships
At the heart of Janssen Auto Group’s educational efforts is its Automotive Technician Program, housed within the Janssen & Sons Ford shop in Holdrege, Nebraska. What began as the “Pistons to Pathways” initiative has grown into a standout model for building skilled talent in rural communities.
Here, local high school juniors and seniors trade traditional classrooms for active service bays. Through a partnership with Central Community College (CCC) and ESU 11, students earn dual credits, advancing toward both their high school diploma and a college degree at the same time.
This program has many benefits:
Tuition-Free Access: With continued backing from the Phelps County Development Corporation, students can take part in this high-level training without the weight of tuition.
Hands-On Learning: This isn’t theory alone, students train alongside Janssen’s Master Technicians, using the same diagnostic equipment found in today’s current vehicles.
A Running Start: By graduation, many students have already earned close to a semester of college credit, about 12 credits, putting them well ahead of the curve.
Beyond the Basics: The GM ASEP Path
For those determined to turn interest into expertise, Janssen champions the GM Automotive Service Educational Program (ASEP). This is no ordinary mechanic course, it’s a direct route to becoming a GM-certified specialist.
Over two years, students move between classroom learning and paid, hands-on experience in a Janssen dealership. Along the way, they gain command of the complex electrical systems, hybrid technologies, and advanced safety features that shape today’s vehicles.
Building a Local Legacy
Janssen Auto Group’s approach is built on a straightforward idea: develop talent from within. By investing in students from Holdrege and nearby communities, Janssen is helping ensure that customers are served by highly trained, capable technicians.
From high school students uncovering a knack for engines to aspiring professionals learning the latest GM technology, Janssen’s 2026 programs go beyond traditional education, they mark the beginning of a strong, career-focused future.
In The News
The ongoing success of Janssen Auto Group’s technician training is a result of a robust collaboration between industry and education. Reports from Central Community College (CCC) highlight the program’s role in creating seamless career pathways, while news from the Phelps County Development Corporation (PCDC) confirms continued scholarship support and investment in local technical talent. Additionally, the program’s growth is frequently featured by Nebraska TV (KHGI), showcasing the real-world impact of classes held at Janssen & Sons Ford for students from Holdrege and surrounding school districts.
