Kumho Tire U.S.A. Pledges $25,000 to Tire Industry Association Scholarship Fund

Five-year commitment will support future leaders in the tire and automotive service industry.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 12:19pm

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Kumho Tire U.S.A., one of the world's leading tire manufacturers, has pledged $25,000 over the next five years to the Tire Industry Association (TIA) Tire Industry Scholarship program. The scholarship, administered through the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, awards $2,500 scholarships to students pursuing higher education or trade programs related to the tire and automotive service industry.

Why it matters

The scholarship program is designed to strengthen the pipeline of future tire and automotive service industry professionals by supporting education. Kumho's multi-year pledge represents a significant investment in developing the next generation of talent for the industry.

The details

Kumho Tire U.S.A. will contribute $5,000 per year for the next five years to the TIA Tire Industry Scholarship program. The scholarships are awarded to students pursuing degrees or certifications related to the tire and automotive service industry.

  • Kumho Tire U.S.A. announced the $25,000 pledge on April 6, 2026.
  • The scholarship program was established in November 2025.

The players

Kumho Tire U.S.A.

One of the world's largest tire manufacturers, with more than 60 years of history of pioneering innovative approaches to developing tires.

Tire Industry Association (TIA)

The recognized authority for tire service technician training and certification, with more than 220,000 industry professionals trained since 1997.

University of the Aftermarket Foundation (UAF)

The organization that administers the TIA Tire Industry Scholarship program.

Ed Cho

CEO of Kumho Tire U.S.A.

Dick Gust

CEO of the Tire Industry Association.

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What they’re saying

“Our five-year pledge to the TIA Scholarship program reflects KUMHO's broader commitment to developing and supporting the next generation of tire industry professionals.”

— Ed Cho, CEO, Kumho Tire U.S.A.

“Kumho Tire U.S.A.'s generous commitment is a powerful investment in the future of our industry. By supporting the Tire Industry Scholarship program, they are helping to build a stronger, more skilled workforce and opening doors for the next generation of industry professionals.”

— Dick Gust, CEO, Tire Industry Association

What’s next

The TIA Tire Industry Scholarship program will continue to accept applications from students pursuing education and training related to the tire and automotive service industry.

The takeaway

Kumho Tire U.S.A.'s multi-year pledge to the TIA Tire Industry Scholarship program demonstrates the company's commitment to investing in the future workforce and supporting the development of the next generation of tire and automotive service professionals.