A Message to the Class of 2026

Dear Graduates of the Class of 2026,

Congratulations! What an incredible milestone you have reached! Successfully completing the Youth Automotive Training Center program is something to be genuinely proud of! Today we celebrate all of the grit, perseverance, resilience and hard work that you put forth to get to this moment. Receiving your YATC certificate of completion is a reflection of your dedication to build a future worthy of these efforts. I am proud to share this moment with each of you, along with your families and friends who have all witnessed you rise to meet the challenges you’ve faced during the last nine months.

The journey you have been on required real commitment. Day after day, you showed up with discipline, sharpening your technical and professional skills and growing in ways that go far beyond the classroom or the shop floor. You decided to WORK FOR IT! The expertise and problem-solving mindset you have developed will open doors and carry you forward in ways you may not be able to imagine yet.

Whatever lies ahead, know that your YATC foundation is strong. Challenges will arise but you are leaving the program equipped to meet them head-on. The automotive industry is evolving faster than ever, and the world needs skilled, thoughtful professionals who can adapt and lead. You are part of that next generation.

Every member of the YATC team is proud of what you have accomplished and genuinely excited about what comes next for you. You are part of the YATC family for life. We hope you will stay in touch and let us cheer you on as you work on your next chapter.

Congratulations once again. Continue to chase your dreams, believe in yourself, keep learning and work toward achieving your potential.

Best wishes for a bright future,

Wade Stanfield

YATC Executive Director