Subaru of America, Inc. announced the launch of Subaru University, through its inaugural partnership with Respond Inc. of Camden, N.J. Subaru University, also called "Subaru-U," is a partnership program designed to combine the talent and resources of Subaru of America, its 600-plus retailers nationwide, as well as select NATEF/AYES accredited Secondary and Post-Secondary schools to provide knowledge of Subaru vehicles and systems to prepare students for possible future employment at Subaru retailers nationwide.
On April 29, Subaru-U and Respond Inc., a non-profit advocate of economic independence and the welfare of individuals and families, opened the new Respond Repair Shop in North Camden, with new shop equipment donated by Subaru of America. Respond's automotive training program will become part of Subaru-U, granting students access to Subaru web-based training and other benefits that will help them achieve ASE and Subaru Maintenance Tech Certification. Through this partnership, Subaru and its retailers, alongside Respond Inc., will take an active role in shaping the local auto technicians of tomorrow.
"While we've only recently broken ground on our future home in Camden, we feel a deep connection to the area and are excited to introduce our first Subaru University partnership, right here in our backyard," said Thomas J. Doll, president and chief operating officer, Subaru of America, Inc. "Subaru and Respond Inc. share the goal of improving the welfare and employability of the local community and we hope our partnership will lead to increased opportunities for students and potential job placement at local Subaru retailers."
Subaru-U and Respond's partnership will offer Camden locals the opportunity to experience the entry level training required of all Subaru technicians. Students will also have an opportunity to participate in 90-day internships on a rotating basis in both the new Respond Repair Shop and the Subaru of America Shop with successful students earning both ASE and Subaru Maintenance Tech Certification.
"We are excited about this new partnership with Subaru University and the opportunities it will open up for Camden residents," said Wilbert Mitchell, executive director of Respond, Inc. "We are also thankful for Subaru's generosity in equipping our new auto repair shop, which will create jobs and provide a valuable service to the community."
