Ford and Carhartt share more than Detroit roots. Born just one mile apart, the two brands have supported the same hardworking Americans for more than a century. For generations, workers have donned their Carhartt gear and climbed into their Ford truck, relying on one for durable workwear and the other for dependable capabilities. Together, they have become a symbol of the Essential Economy.
Carhartt has been producing apparel for Ford factory workers since the 1920s, continuing workwear programs through the 1970s and beyond. After decades of working side by side on jobsites and in factories, the two companies recently made their partnership official at the Detroit Auto Show. Ford Motor Company CEO Jim Farley and Carhartt CEO Linda Hubbard announced a multi-year strategic collaboration focused on workforce development, community building, and durable products that support skilled trades. The partnership will introduce co-branded merchandise and a new Super Duty Carhartt truck arriving later this year.
“Hamilton Carhartt founded our company on a simple principle: listen to hardworking people and build products that help them do their jobs safely and effectively. For 136 years, we’ve stood with the skilled trades by making durable gear they can rely on. That commitment has since grown to include support for programs that provide people with the skills and training needed for meaningful careers in the trades. We’re excited that our partnership with Ford will help us advance this important work.”
A major focus of the collaboration is building the next generation of auto technicians. Ford continues to invest in fast-track training programs by partnering with high schools and community colleges, while Ford Philanthropy and Ford dealers work with the TechForce Foundation to support Ford Auto Tech Scholars. These initiatives help cover technician tools, credentialing fees, and transportation needs. As part of the new partnership, Carhartt will outfit the next cohort of Ford Auto Tech Scholars in custom Carhartt gear, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to skilled trades education.
“This is such a great match because we're all committed to making sure workers have the best equipment and gear that they can get. ToolBank USA is inspiring people to do more with their hands while changing lives in our local communities. Who better to expand their mission and bring the next hub to this great city than two iconic Detroit companies, Ford and Carhartt.”
The companies are also bringing ToolBank USA to Detroit. This nonprofit organization provides access to tools for community revitalization, trade education, and disaster relief. Opening next month, the Detroit ToolBank will serve as both a tool lending hub and a training ground for future tradespeople. The facility will provide, store, and repair equipment for local organizations and workers, supporting more than 5,000 volunteers and managing 25,000 tools each year. To help expand its reach throughout Southeast Michigan, Ford is donating an F-150 equipped with ProPower On Board, delivering mobile power directly to worksites and community projects.
In late 2025, Ford and Carhartt partnered with Cintas to launch a new uniform program designed specifically for dealership technicians. The workwear is engineered to handle the rigorous demands of the modern service bay, offering durable shirts, pants, jackets, sweatshirts, footwear, and accessories in both men’s and women’s sizes. Through Cintas’ nationwide service network, dealerships can choose a managed workwear program that includes professional cleaning, inspection, and repair, or a direct purchase option that provides flexibility while maintaining quality and consistency.
“Our work together represents our commitment to providing our customers with apparel that works as hard as they do. We’re proud to leverage our nationwide footprint and operational excellence to simplify how Ford dealerships ensure their technicians are Ready for the Workday.”
The partnership will also produce a 2027 Super Duty Carhartt truck that celebrates the shared values of durability, innovation, and craftsmanship. Ford designers drew inspiration from Carhartt’s Detroit flagship store, incorporating textures, colors, and functional details reflective of the brand’s rugged heritage. Even the wheels take cues from Detroit manhole covers located outside the store, blending local pride with heavy-duty capability.
More details about the 2027 Super Duty Carhartt truck will be revealed in the coming months. This collaboration highlights how two iconic American brands continue to invest in workers, communities, and the tools that keep the Essential Economy moving forward.
