Black's Helps Pilot Next-Gen Tech Training

Black's Tire Service Inc. is teaming with NAPA XcceleratorR and Skillmaker to pilot virtual reality and artificial intelligence training for auto service techs.

May 8, 2026

2 min read

Add Us On Google

'At Black's Tire, investing in our people has always been a priority,' says Ryan Benton, vice president of retail operations at Black's Tire Service. 'We're proud to help lead the way in building the next generation of skilled technicians.' — "At Black's Tire, investing in our people has always been a priority," says Ryan Benton, vice president of retail operations at Black's Tire Service. "We're proud to help lead the way in building the next generation of skilled technicians."

Black's Tire Service Inc. is teaming with NAPA XcceleratorR and Skillmaker to pilot virtual reality and artificial intelligence (AI) training for auto service techs.

The progam recently launched at two Black's Tire Service stores and includes the use of virtual reality headsets and AI-powered smart glasses.

Skillmaker "uses AI-powered extended reality technology to dramatically accelerate technician skill development," according to Black's Tire Service officials. "The platform combines virtual reality, mixed reality and smart glasses to reduce the time it takes to train an entry-level auto repair technician from two years to as little as 25 days.

"The pilot blends AI, virtual reality and augmented reality to create a more immersive and hands-on learning experience — improving both speed to competency and on-the-job safety and confidence for technicians at every level."

The NAPA Autotech XcceleratoR program has been recognized by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence as a pathway toward significantly reducing the standard work experience requirement for technician certification.

"At Black's Tire, investing in our people has always been a priority," says Ryan Benton, the dealership's vice president of retail operations. "We're proud to help lead the way in building the next generation of skilled technicians."

With more than 60 locations, Black's Tire Service, which also does business at BTS Tire & Wheel Distributors and is based in Whiteville, N.C., is one of the largest tire dealerships in the United States, according to the MTD 100.