At H+H, we believe in the power of education and hands-on experience to shape the future of the automotive industry. Our commitment to fostering the next generation of skilled technicians and industry professionals has led us to form strong partnerships with several schools in the Omaha area. These collaborations are designed to inspire, educate, and provide real-world experiences to students interested in pursuing careers in the automotive trades.
A Growing Network of Partnerships
Our partnerships with local schools are at the heart of our efforts to promote careers in the automotive industry. Here’s a look at some of the schools we work with and the activities we engage in to support their students.
H+H currently partners with over 10 area school districts.
- Omaha Public Schools and the Omaha Career Center
- Ralston High School
- Bellevue Public Schools and the Frank Kumor Career Center
- Louisville High School
- Plattsmouth High School
- Platteview High School
- Boys Town Auto Program
- Gretna Public Schools
- Elkhorn Public Schools
- Harry Hopkins Career Center (Sioux City, IA)
- Iowa Western Community College’s High School Programs
Community Activities
The H+H team is engaged with each partner school to educate students on career opportunities at H+H, and the automotive trades industry.
- Career Fairs
- H+H represents the automotive industry at career fairs with the Omaha Career Center (Omaha Public Schools) and Platteview Public Schools.
- Field Trips
- Students spend one day touring the H+H Shop and Parts Department and get an opportunity to ask questions to the automotive technicians.
- Advisory Meetings
- Being an industry partner, the H+H team collaborates with partner schools to learn about the latest at their school and programs.
- Class Presentations
- The team presents to students in the classroom and covers who H+H is, the best-in-class philosophy, and the apprenticeship and internship programs. This allows students the opportunity to ask questions and gain a better understanding of all the opportunities at H+H.
- Mock Interviews
- Help students prepare for interviews as they enter the workforce.
Student Success Stories
H+H has hired students from multiple area school districts including Omaha Public Schools, Ralston High School, and Platteview High School. One notable success story involves two students from Ralston High School who graduated in May 2024. Eric and Vicente were a part of the Ralston High School Auto Club and learned about H+H’s apprenticeship program through their auto club teacher. Eric and Vicente are now both Service Technician Apprentices at H+H Kia Omaha. You can read more about Eric and Vicente’s journey by reading the June H+H Driving Good Youth & Mentor Spotlight.
Expanding Our Reach
We are continuously seeking to expand our network of school partnerships, especially with programs geared towards the trades. Our goal is to reach more students, provide more opportunities for hands-on learning, and inspire a new generation to pursue fulfilling careers in the automotive industry.
Leading the Charge
Rob Ramsey, Fixed Operations Director, and Trish Ruffino, Talent Acquisition Business Partner, lead our outreach efforts, bringing passion and expertise to every interaction with students. They explain what students can expect in the automotive industry, answer questions, and provide invaluable insight into career pathways. Our field trips, internships, and presentations offer students a firsthand look at what a day in the life of an automotive professional is like, often igniting a passion for the field.
Supporting the Community
Our initiatives are similar to the work we do with organizations like Avenue Scholars. By getting in front of students, supporting field trips, and presenting at boot camps, we help bridge the gap between education and industry.
Join Us in Shaping the Future
At H+H, we are proud of the impact we’re making in the community and the opportunities we provide to students. We look forward to continuing our partnerships, expanding our reach, and welcoming new schools into our network. Together, we can build a stronger future for the automotive industry and the skilled trades.
If your school or organization is interested in partnering with us, please reach out. Let’s work together to inspire and equip the next generation of automotive professionals.
