As electric vehicles (EVs) become increasingly popular, the question of whether the infrastructure can keep up with this surge is top of mind for many. While much of the conversation focuses on the electrical grid's ability to power these vehicles, an equally important concern is overlooked: the shortage of skilled technicians to service and maintain electrical vehicles. As EVs account for a growing share of vehicles on the road, who will repair and service them?
Unfortunately, there is a significant shortage of trained technicians, posing a serious challenge to the industry's momentum. Legacy EV, a leader in EV education, is actively addressing this gap with its brand agnostic training programs that focus on the fundamentals of EV technology.
The shortage of qualified EV technicians isn’t just an inconvenience, it’s a financial burden that can make repairs more costly, often leading to premature scrapping of electric vehicles. When skilled labor is in short supply, repair costs naturally increase, as fewer technicians are available to diagnose and fix issues. This scarcity drives up service fees and extends wait times for necessary repairs. For EV owners, especially those with older or less popular models, the increased costs and delays can make repairs financially unfeasible.
Many automotive shops risk closure in the next decade unless they develop plans to upskill their workers in EV technology.
In the United States, around 286 million vehicles are currently in operation, with projections estimating that this number could reach 359 million by 2050. As the country aims for net-zero emissions, a substantial number of these vehicles will need to transition to electric power. This shift underscores the necessity for a workforce skilled in EV maintenance and repair. Unlike traditional ICE vehicles, EVs require specialized knowledge for servicing electric powertrains, battery systems, and high-voltage components
As EVs account for a growing share of vehicles on the road, who will repair and service them?
According to industry projections, approximately 90,240 technicians will need to be proficient in EV technology by 2035 to meet the anticipated demand. Many automotive shops risk closure in the next decade unless they develop plans to upskill their workers in EV technology. The current workforce is vastly underprepared for this shift, highlighting the urgent need for targeted training programs.
Recognizing the growing need for skilled EV technicians, Legacy EV has developed comprehensive training programs designed to bridge this skills gap. The cornerstone of Legacy EV's approach is its focus on fundamental principles, such as electrical theory, high-voltage safety, and hands-on experience with EV powertrains and charging systems. This foundational knowledge equips technicians with a solid understanding of the basics, making them adaptable as EV technology continues to evolve.
Legacy EV’s strategic training initiative includes two primary pathways: Incumbent Worker Training and Classroom Institutional Training. Both pathways aim to provide a thorough, hands-on learning experience, ensuring that technicians are well-versed in the latest EV technologies.
This pathway targets existing automotive mechanics who wish to expand their skill set to include EV technology. Legacy EV’s EV Fundamentals Certification Bootcamp is a key component of this training. Participants learn to wire, program, commission, tune, and troubleshoot various EV systems using fully functional EV training benches. High-voltage personal protective equipment (PPE) is demonstrated and used during these hands-on exercises. Before attending the bootcamp, learners complete a virtual Certified Technician Program that covers foundational knowledge of EV powertrains and high-voltage safety, typically taking around 25 hours.
Technicians completing this program will be prepared to earn certifications such as an ASE Level 2 xEV Technician Electrical Safety Certification, signaling their competence in EV repair and safety protocols.
This upskilling not only enhances current workers' abilities but also opens doors to higher-paying jobs within the industry.
Targeting the next generation of automotive technicians, this pathway integrates EV certification courses into existing vocational and technical education programs. By doing so, Legacy EV helps create a pipeline of skilled workers ready to enter the EV industry upon graduation. These courses, designed to fit within a standard academic semester, provide a mix of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Schools like Northeast Texas Community College have already implemented these programs, demonstrating their scalability and effectiveness.
Legacy EV’s turn-key curriculum and training aids allow educational institutions across the country to quickly integrate comprehensive EV training into their existing programs. Students gain hands-on experience with tools like the 100V EV Training Bench, which enables them to wire, diagnose, and program EV systems while practicing high-voltage safety procedures. Graduates are well-prepared to take industry-recognized certifications, enhancing their employability.
While the demand for EV technicians grows, industry standards for EV training are still in development. To address this need, Legacy EV helped establish the Electric Vehicle Standards Council (EVSC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to accelerating EV education in the United States. The EVSC focuses on developing and implementing consistent standards for EV technician training, ensuring that educational programs meet the needs of the industry and maintain high levels of quality and safety.
The EVSC’s mission is to create a unified approach to EV technician education, covering key areas such as high-voltage safety, electrical diagnostics, and powertrain maintenance. By establishing standardized curriculum guidelines, the EVSC helps training providers like Legacy EV deliver courses that produce highly skilled, job-ready technicians. This effort not only addresses the immediate technician shortage but also lays the groundwork for a robust workforce capable of supporting the EV industry as it continues to grow.
The urgency of addressing the EV technician shortage has not gone unnoticed. The White House has announced plans to invest in clean energy jobs, including those related to EVs. These initiatives support employers and educational institutions in creating programs that provide training and career development in the clean energy sector.
Legacy EV President Mavrick Knoles was recently invited to the White House to discuss his company’s role in creating effective EV training programs. This event marked a significant milestone, highlighting the importance of on-the-job training for EV builders and repair workers. The establishment of workforce hubs, such as those planned in Phoenix, Arizona, will further expand the reach of these educational initiatives, ensuring a steady supply of skilled technicians for the growing EV market.
The transition to electric vehicles is not just about producing more EVs but also about preparing a workforce capable of supporting this shift. As the demand for EVs rises, so will the need for qualified technicians. Legacy EV’s focus on fundamentals-based training ensures that today’s and tomorrow’s technicians are equipped to handle both current and future technologies. By investing in the education and certification of skilled workers, Legacy EV is laying the foundation for a more sustainable, efficient, and forward-thinking automotive industry.
Learn more at legacyev.com, by sending an email education@legacyev.com, or by completing the form below.