Inspiring the Next Generation of Automotive Technicians at Mount Olive High School
hands-on learning are preparing students across New Jersey for rewarding automotive careers
At Magic Lube & Rubber, we understand that as a parent, you want your child to explore career paths that are rewarding, secure, and full of opportunities to grow. Recently, we had the honor of participating in the Skilled Trades & Apprenticeship Fair at Mount Olive High School, an event hosted in partnership with the Workforce Development Board of Northwest New Jersey. Students from all over the state were bused in to learn about exciting career options in skilled trades—including the automotive industry!
Connecting Students to Real Career Opportunities
Our team, including Will and Brendan, met with students to show what a modern automotive career looks like. They demonstrated the tools and technology used daily in our shops, including scanners, borescopes, thermal imagers, coolant pressure testers, and professional-grade cleaning systems. Many students—and parents—were surprised to see that today’s auto repair field blends mechanical skill with advanced technology, problem-solving, and continuous learning.
We also explained that there are multiple ways for students to enter the automotive field. Some pursue technical schools such as UTI or Lincoln Tech, others begin with community college programs, and many start through apprenticeship programs like ours. No matter your child’s experience level or preferred learning style, there’s a pathway that can help them grow into a skilled professional.
A Career With Endless Possibilities
The automotive industry offers far more than just fixing cars. Technicians can specialize in diagnostics, hybrid and electric vehicles, performance or custom builds, shop management, and service leadership. For students who enjoy hands-on work, problem-solving, or customer interaction, this field offers a variety of career paths—and the opportunity to develop skills that will serve them for a lifetime.
These industries also have a pressing need for new talent. Fewer young people are entering the trades, and shops across the state are looking for skilled, motivated individuals. Engaging students early, showing them real work environments, and giving them mentorship opportunities helps build that talent pipeline—and gives parents peace of mind that their children are considering careers with real potential.
Supporting Local Schools and Local Careers
We are grateful to the Workforce Development Board of Northwest New Jersey and Mount Olive High School for creating an event that allowed students to explore multiple careers, attend mini-presentations, and meet with professionals from a wide range of industries, including engineering, healthcare technology, landscaping, electrical trades, barbers and stylists, and unions. Seeing students excited about their future and asking thoughtful questions reminded us why programs like this are so important.
Help Your Child Start a Rewarding Career
If your student is curious about a future in the automotive industry, Magic Lube & Rubber is ready to help. Our apprenticeship program provides hands-on training, mentorship, and career growth opportunities in a field that is always evolving and in demand.
Shawn Gilfillan is the dedicated owner of Automotive Magic in Kenvil, NJ. With over two decades of experience, Shawn has led his team in providing expert auto repair and service since 2003.
In 2022, Magic Lube & Rubber was born in Lake Hopatcong, NJ. Committed to fostering strong community ties and supporting team development, Shawn prioritizes customer satisfaction above all. As a proud family man and long-time resident of Roxbury, NJ, Shawn brings a blend of professionalism and warmth to his business.
Trust Shawn and his team for all your automotive needs with confidence and assurance.
