AED Foundation forms new partnership to advance student technical programs in the equipment industry

The AED Foundation (AEDF) and the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Education Foundation have announced a new partnership designed to expand access to industry-recognized credentials and strengthen the connection between high school technical programs and careers in the equipment distribution industry.

Through this collaboration, AEDF-recognized high school programs will now be able to utilize ASE entry-level assessments as an official industry-recognized credential for students. This integration provides a new pathway for students to demonstrate job readiness and earn meaningful credentials before graduation, according to the foundations.

Additionally, ASE will extend its school pricing for entry-level assessments to all AEDF-recognized programs, making certification opportunities more affordable and accessible. Schools will also be able to leverage student credentialing success to unlock incentive funding tied to measurable career outcomes. 

“This partnership with the ASE Education Foundation represents another important step in aligning education with the real needs of our industry,” said Brian McGuire, president, AEDF. “By giving students access to ASE’s respected credentialing system, we’re not only validating their skills but also helping schools, employers and communities build a stronger, more sustainable pipeline of future technicians.” 

ASE research underscores the importance of this alignment: 

• 65.1 percent of American parents now recommend skilled trades to their children — up from 42.6 percent just two years ago. 
• In the 2024–2025 school year, more than 68,000 students took ASE entry-level tests, and more than 50,000 passed at least one. 
• Technicians with ASE certifications demonstrate up to 40 percent higher productivity, 60 percent fewer comebacks and 20 percent higher earnings than their non-certified peers. 

“We’re proud to partner with the AED Foundation to help more students earn credentials that truly make a difference in their careers,” said Dave Johnson, president and CEO, ASE. “Together, we’re helping schools deliver training that matches industry expectations and preparing students for rewarding jobs in the equipment sector.”

By combining resources, both foundations state they are committed to improving student outcomes, closing the technician skills gap and creating clearer school-to-career pathways in the heavy equipment industry.