MADISON, Wis. – Hoffman EV, Wisconsin’s only custom electric vehicle conversion shop, is actively addressing the critical skilled trades gap by engaging Dane County youth in hands-on electric vehicle technology. Founder Geoffrey Hoffman is partnering with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Dane County’s McKenzie Regional Workforce Center to provide practical exposure to careers in the rapidly expanding electric mobility sector, a strategic move with significant market implications.

On a recent field trip, students from the workforce program visited Hoffman EV’s facility, gaining firsthand insight into the intricate process of transforming classic internal combustion engine vehicles into electric powerhouses. Participants, including youth coordinator Queshanae Napier and student Ben Calles, explored a newly converted 1990s Bentley, observing how high-voltage components seamlessly replaced the traditional gasoline engine while preserving the vehicle's original aesthetic. “It’s one thing to read about something in a textbook or learn it in a classroom,” Calles noted, “It’s another thing to actually go and see the different parts and how they’re assembled, and how everything works together.”

Founded just last year, Hoffman EV represents a unique niche in the burgeoning clean energy market, focusing on bespoke EV conversions. Hoffman, whose own career was shaped by an early apprenticeship in welding at age 16, emphasizes the value of vocational training. “You know, all my friends were flipping burgers or something like that, and I was working in a metal fabrication shop, learning tons,” he stated, underscoring how foundational trade skills propelled his professional trajectory. This personal experience fuels his commitment to mentorship, recognizing the vast opportunities within the clean energy landscape.

The initiative directly confronts the national shortage of skilled technicians capable of servicing and innovating within the electric vehicle ecosystem. As global demand for sustainable transportation solutions escalates, the need for a proficient workforce becomes increasingly acute. Hoffman’s program not only introduces students to advanced automotive technologies but also instills an appreciation for the practical skills vital for future employment. For Hoffman, the objective extends beyond business; it is about cultivating future talent and contributing to the community, ensuring that the next generation is equipped to drive the clean energy transition.