The 40 scholarships cover tuition fees, travel expenses, and initial living allowances. The recipient institutions include:
- Thai - Austrian Technical College (TATC), Chonburi Province (23 scholarships): 18 scholarships for Mechatronics students and 5 for Automotive Technology students.
- Automotive Technology College, Bangkok (9 scholarships): Supporting students in the 2-year dual vocational education program, which includes hands-on training opportunities at Ford Service Centers.
- Lanna Polytechnic Technological College, Chiang Mai Province (4 scholarships).
- Luang Pho Koon Parisuttho Technical College, Nakhon Ratchasima Province (4 scholarships): Supporting students in the 2-year curriculum. This marks the program’s first expansion into the Northeast, where students will have the opportunity to undergo practical training at Ford Service Centers during their second year.
- Additionally, Ford has supported the Automotive Department at Ban Khai Technical College, Rayong Province, by donating a 2.0-liter diesel engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission—the same powertrain featured in the Ford Ranger and Ford Everest. This donation will serves as an instructional tool to help students learn about Ford’s latest automotive technologies.
Ratthakarn Jutasen, Managing Director of Ford Thailand, stated “Now in its ninth year, the ‘Transforming Knowledge into Career’ program reflects Ford’s unwavering commitment to developing highly skilled professionals equipped with both the theoretical knowledge and hands-on expertise to keep pace with the modern technologies in Ford vehicles, as well as the latest innovations in vehicle maintenance, ensuring we deliver top-quality service to our customers. This year, we are focused on expanding our support to students in more regions to alleviate financial burdens, promote a healthy work-life balance, and support the mental well-being of students who may be living far from home. Our ultimate goal is to foster an environment where well-rounded talent can thrive and drive the future of the Thai automotive industry.”
Beyond easing the financial burden for students, the ‘Knowledge to Career’ program offers essential training led by Ford experts, featuring:
- Mentorship Program: Connecting students with experienced technicians from Ford Service Centers to provide hands-on guidance and share valuable industry insights.
- Workshops and Seminars: Focusing on time management and skill enhancement to ensure students are fully prepared before entering the job market.
- Progress Monitoring and Evaluation: Providing ongoing tracking and additional assistance as needed to ensure students achieve both their educational and professional goals.
- Work-Study Balance Integration: Collaborating with colleges and employers to establish suitable schedules that facilitate effective learning.
Somsak Poebaikul, Dealer Council Representative from Ford Auto Gallery Group, shared the invaluable real-world perspective of Ford's dealer partners:
