This annual competition is considered by many to be the Indy 500 of auto repair. Fifty state champion teams representing their respective high school's automotive technology program compete for the coveted national title, valuable scholarships and prizes.

How it works: At the national finals, each two-member team takes a comprehensive written exam and then races against the clock to diagnose and repair identically "bugged" automobiles in a quest to achieve the perfect car. To qualify for the national finals, each state will hold its own Auto Skills competition this spring, which encompasses the same criteria.

Hands-On Repair competition: 9:15 AM to 10:45 AM EST, with excellent video and photo opportunities. Media are welcome to interview the students, their instructors, contest officials, or judges. Interview opportunities will be available Monday, June 26, by request and on Tuesday, June 27, before and after the competition.

NOTE TO PRODUCERS AND EDITORS: Photos and B-Roll footage can be provided on request.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the auto industry will need 35,000 new technicians every year through 2010. Ford and AAA have joined together to assure the next generation of well-trained auto technicians will be there to provide service to the motoring public. The competition's goal is to encourage students to continue their education and to pursue careers in the automotive industry.