It’s more than a garage. And these are more than jobs.
Because this garage is more of a launchpad. A place where people learn to do quality automotive work. In return, they’ll be ready to step into quality jobs – in an industry where wages are rising, along with demand.
And for the man whose vision brought together modern cars, promising students, and top-tier training, this new home of the Jumpstart Automotive Training Center is the culmination of years of hard work to give more of Metro Atlanta’s youth a solid chance at a great career.
Leaders from the Regions Foundation saw what’s happening and knew they wanted to be part of it, too. So, they provided a $100,000 grant to help Jumpstart expand its work. And while we can tell you all about the new home for Jumpstart, this is a story that’s perhaps better seen than told.
Check it out:
The energy of Jumpstart Automotive Training Center’s grand opening of its new, expanded facility comes through in the video captured below.
The Regions Foundation is a nonprofit funded primarily by Regions Bank – and it invests in programs like Jumpstart that are fueling workforce readiness.
Jumpstart’s new training facility in Conley, Ga., significantly expands the nonprofit’s ability to deliver hands‑on training. It’s three times larger than Jumpstart’s former location, positioning the organization to increase enrollment, broaden instruction, and meet rising demand. Jumpstart currently has a 9-12 month waiting list.
Commissioner Michelle Long Spears, of Dekalb County, congratulated Jumpstart for moving into its new, expanded space. (Left) Mia Hubbard, Consumer Banking Executive for Regions Bank, represented the Regions Foundation during the Jumpstart grand opening ceremony. (Right)
As for the nonprofit’s founder, making this program work – was personal.
“There was a point in my life when I realized that if I didn’t change direction, my future wasn’t going to change either,” said Larry Witherspoon. “Jumpstart grew out of that moment — and out of a belief that everyone deserves a chance to learn, to work, and to build a life they’re proud of.”
Larry Witherspoon, executive director of Jumpstart Automotive Training Center, founded the nonprofit to help young people attain second chances in life.
Jumpstart’s training model combines classroom learning with hands‑on experience gained by working on real customer vehicles. Community members support the nonprofit’s mission by choosing to have their vehicles serviced at the center at fair, competitive prices, creating a learning environment that prepares students for careers in the automotive industry.
“When you walk into Jumpstart, you don’t just see training bays and tools — you see people reclaiming their confidence and building a path forward,” said Marta Self, executive director of the Regions Foundation. “This organization meets students where they are and helps them learn skills that lead to real jobs and real stability.”
When you walk into Jumpstart, you don’t just see training bays and tools — you see people reclaiming their confidence and building a path forward.
Marta Self, executive director of the Regions Foundation
Nicholas Hill is a Jumpstart alum who credits the program with helping him build both technical skills and confidence. He is now a diesel mechanic.
Nicholas Hill, a Jumpstart Alum, shared his story with attendees.
“From day one, I appreciated the hands-on learning at Jumpstart – it kept me engaged and motivated to stick with it,” Hill shared. “The instructors pushed me to stay sharp and on time, always looked out for my safety, and shared a wealth of knowledge.”
After a ribbon-cutting, attendees toured the facility and observed instruction in action, highlighting the organization’s hands‑on, teaching‑based approach.
Regions Bank associates provided volunteer support for Jumpstart’s grand opening.
“We don’t just fix cars here — we help people jumpstart new life stories. This new space lets us put more lives on the right road than ever before,” Witherspoon said.
About Jumpstart Automotive Training Center
Jumpstart Automotive Training Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing hands‑on automotive instruction and workforce readiness education. Through real‑world training and strong employment partnerships, Jumpstart equips young adults with the technical skills and confidence needed to pursue sustainable automotive careers. Learn more at www.jumpstartautomotive.org.
About the Regions Foundation
The Alabama‑based Regions Foundation supports community investments that positively impact communities served by Regions Bank. The Foundation engages in a grantmaking program focused on priorities including economic and community development; education and workforce readiness; and financial wellness. The Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation funded primarily through contributions from Regions Bank. To learn more about the Regions Foundation, visit www.regions.com/foundation.