Northwood University and MEMA, The Vehicle Suppliers Association, are pleased to announce registration is now open for Heavy Duty 101, a two-day deep dive into the heavy-duty automotive aftermarket.
“Students who attend this class will develop a firm knowledge of the breadth, depth, and scope of the heavy-duty aftermarket,” stated Dr. Thomas Litzinger, executive director of the University of Aftermarket, Northwood University.
The heavy-duty aftermarket refers to the secondary market in the automotive sector that primarily deals with after-sales of heavy-duty vehicle components.
Through Heavy Duty 101, attendees will learn about the channels of retail, e-commerce and traditional distribution; how key industry players contribute to this industry; key initiatives/market strategies; challenges and opportunities facing professional service dealers; and how to develop a professional sales network.
“We’ve heard from suppliers, distributors and other stakeholders in the heavy-duty industry that there has been an influx of newcomers to the industry,” stated Collin Shaw, chief commercial vehicle officer at MEMA. “With this course, we aim to give newcomers solid footing and the chance to start building their network in the heavy-duty industry.”
“Most importantly, students will learn to distinguish themselves from the competition and dominate the marketplace,” Litzinger added.
This year’s Heavy Duty 101 lineup includes:
• An overview of industry basics presented by MEMA, “The Vehicle Suppliers Association”
• A discussion from a truck original equipment manufacturer (OEM) perspective
• A discussion from a trailer OEM perspective
• A presentation, “Heavy Duty Aftermarket By the Numbers”
• A look at aftermarket data
• A segment about Right to Repair
“This live, two-day educational event is open to any new team member in the light and heavy-duty motor vehicle aftermarket who desires to better understand the overall aftermarket, structure and channels, and a broad view of industry trends,” Litzinger stated. “Students will be exposed to important information about the heavy-duty aftermarket, its history, scope, market channels, customers and trends. Sessions will be led by experienced aftermarket professionals from key market segments.”
The event will be held June 6-7 at Delta Hotels by Marriott, 37529 Grand River, Farmington Hills, Michigan. This is being offered in partnership with MEMA.
The cost is $995 per attendee, and they will earn 1.5 continuing education units (CEUs) toward their Automotive Aftermarket Professional (AAP, MAAP) professional designation.
To register, visit https://admissions.northwood.edu/corporate/uofa