Students and teachers from throughout D/FW will have a unique opportunity to explore careers in the automotive industry in the ideal setting, Texas Motorplex, on the morning before the track hosts day one of the Texas NHRA FallNationals on Friday October 10, 2025.
The event is hosted by the 2025 NHRA Youth & Education Services (YES) Program, a nationwide initiative designed to inspire students to explore rewarding careers in the automotive industry at no cost to participants. It is the only full-time education initiative in motorsports.
NAPA is the presenting sponsor of the YES Program and NAPA will help attendees learn about job openings (including the NAPA Auto Care Apprentice Program and scholarship opportunities) and build relationships with local Auto Care Centers. Every participant also receives a Friday NHRA race ticket at no cost. The hands-on educational experience is scheduled for 9:00 AM-11:00 AM and will include the following:
•A “Midway” where students and teachers can experience interactive displays and engage with representatives from YES and NAPA.
•YES Program overview and Panel Discussion featuring NAPA Funny Car Driver Ron Capps and others.
•Tour of Ron Capps Pit Area and Carlyle Tools Trailer to meet with local NAPA Auto Care Centers and learn about the Apprenticeship Program that opens the doors for students eager to become a certified technician.
•Carlyle Tools Demonstration where students can see the tools the pros use in action.
“We’re thrilled to welcome high school, trade school, and vo-tech students to the YES event at Texas Motorplex this year,” said Kevin Shannon, Market Director of Sales with the Dallas NAPA Distribution Center.
“This program bridges the gap between education and industry, showing students the wide range of possibilities available in technical and STEM-related careers—especially in the motorsports and automotive sectors,” added Shannon.
Students interested in attending can sign up by visiting https://www.nhra.com/ yesprogramregistration.
For more information about the NHRA Youth & Education Services Program, contact [email protected] or call 562-4559142.
