It's been more than three years since the U.S. automobile industry nearly collapsed. A controversial federal bailout, an increase in consumer demand, and a growing interest in environmentally friendly fuel-efficient vehicles and related technologies have combined to help create a remarkable recovery. Total U.S. sales of light vehicles in 2012 are up by 15 percent through September compared with 2011. The Ann Arbor, Mich.-based Center for Automotive Research (CAR) forecasts that final sales of vehicles should reach 14.3 million in 2012, for an 11.8 percent increase over 2011--the third double-digit annual percentage sales increase since 2009. Such figures are good news for community colleges heavily invested in programs to train and prepare the next generation of automotive technicians. But the future is not without its share of challenges. The institutions and companies that train and retrain automotive technicians and body repairers must upgrade curricula and equipment to keep pace with innovation. Fortunately, the industry, like the nation's community colleges, has a vested interest in helping students succeed. As community colleges and businesses gear up to train the next generation of automotive workers, the author provides a glimpse into where the industry is headed. (Contains 2 figures.)