Imagine a San Diego where every young person, regardless of background, can build a thriving career without the burden of student debt. The San Diego Automotive Museum’s IGNITE Academy is making that vision a reality, and with the launch of its new Santee Campus, its impact is about to accelerate.
IGNITE Academy is not just an educational program; it is a launchpad. This award-winning initiative Inspires, Guides, Networks, provides Internships, Trains, and Educates students in the automotive trades and beyond – all at no cost to the student. IGNITE’s holistic approach integrates technical training, financial literacy, mentorship, and career opportunities, empowering participants to overcome economic barriers and build fulfilling careers.
From a 20-student pilot program in 2022 to 60 participants in 2024, IGNITE has experienced remarkable growth, with numerous success stories in just two years. Hands-on, immersive workshops, coupled with mentorship from industry professionals, provide students with invaluable skills and experience. “After my son completed his first workshop, it was the first time he ever expressed interest in continuing education after high school, the first time he had hope for his future,” shared a program parent.
What sets IGNITE apart is its deep connection to the San Diego automotive industry. In partnership with over 20 leading businesses, including Hoehn Family of Dealerships, HRE Performance Wheels, and Mission Hills Automotive, the Academy offers students access to internships and apprenticeships that would otherwise be unattainable. These partnerships provide real-world exposure to the automotive field, from sales and customer service to technical work and design.
With the automotive industry facing a critical shortage of skilled workers, IGNITE is training the next generation of professionals, filling a vital need in our community. These are not just jobs; they are lucrative careers, offering stability and economic mobility for young people.
To meet this demand, IGNITE’s new 11,000 square-foot Santee Campus provides a dedicated learning environment for students. IGNITE’s 2025 program includes twice-monthly workshops, and an extended Summer Series, where students will work together to rebuild cars from start to finish, giving them invaluable experience.
The Museum has embarked on a capital campaign to fund essential upgrades at the new campus that will create an industry-standard learning environment. These improvements will ensure that IGNITE participants learn in a state-of-the-art facility, equipped with the tools and resources they need to succeed. Phase I includes tenant improvements for the current workspace. Future phases will expand the Academy and include automotive bays for enhanced hands-on learning and improved student amenities.
Invest in San Diego’s future by supporting the IGNITE Academy – Santee Campus. Your contribution will directly empower more students to pursue life-changing careers in the automotive industry. Naming opportunities, including the chance to name the campus itself, are available for the Museum’s capital project, as well as opportunities for program support. Contact Sharon Smith at (619) 987-8020 to learn more about how you can support IGNITE and empower San Diego’s youth.
www.sdautomuseum.org
