Automotive Service Students in Michigan Help Save College Dean’s Vehicle
Students in the Automotive Service Technology program at Ferris State University in Big Rapids, Michigan, are getting hands-on experience working with customers while still in school.
Having offered automotive training for over 50 years now, Ferris State offers an associate degree in the Automotive Service Technology program, which trains students in preventive maintenance for all kinds of vehicles.
Additionally, Ferris State provides a bachelor’s degree in automotive management, which brings together technical knowledge and management training. By teaching students about the current processes and systems in the industry, they learn how to handle issues on the manufacturer, supplier, and retailer levels.
When the dean of Ferris State’s College of Engineering Technology, Kate O’Connor, ran into an issue with her vehicle recently and needed a new battery, she ended up in the Automotive Service Floor at the behest of Assistant Professor Jeremy Themm, a recent press release shared.
During the fall and spring semesters, the Automotive Service Floor is open to the public. Only a $10 shop fee is charged, in addition to any parts needed.
“Jeremy said the students could do the job and my being their dean was in no way taking advantage of their efforts,” recalled O’Connor. “I was treated so professionally, from the intake process to the installation, where assistant professor Paul McNair was supervising students as they helped each other complete the task.”
Having sought the service of Ferris alumnus for vehicle needs in the past, O’Connor now plans to bring her vehicles back to current or recent Ferris students for future service she may need.
“I had some service done, with a Ferris-educated technician handling that work. Our conversation about the car and his education was delightful and I was very impressed by the work done,” said O’Connor. “I know now I can look to our Automotive students on the service floor and program graduates with area shops, when I am looking to have maintenance or repairs done, down the line.”
