From aftermarketNews Staff & Wire Reports

MIDLAND, Mich. – The 2008/09 class of Leadership 2.0 is officially sold out. The University of the Aftermarket has registered 25 participants for the two-week executive development program, which kicks off Sept. 7 at the newly opened Sloan Family Building for Aftermarket Studies on the campus of Northwood University in Midland, Mich.

The 2008/09 class represents every level of the aftermarket, from manufacturer to service dealer, according to University of the Aftermarket Director Brian Cruickshank. “I could not be more pleased with the incoming class, both in terms of the number of participants and the organizations they represent,” he said. “The fact that we were able to attract a class of this caliber, in spite of a very challenging economy, is great news for our industry. It signals a renewed commitment to the development of aftermarket leaders.”

Leadership 2.0 is a cornerstone of the aftermarket’s efforts to develop the next generation of visionary executives who will help drive the industry to new heights. The experience is designed for mid-level professionals working in any market segment within the motor vehicle aftermarket. Past graduates have represented the manufacturing, retail distribution, wholesale distribution, association management, program group management and service dealer sectors.

Following the week-long session in Midland, participants will reconvene April 12-17, 2009, on Northwood University’s campus in West Palm Beach, Fla.

Graduates of the Leadership 2.0 program receive 6.0 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) toward completion of their Automotive Aftermarket Professional (AAP) or Master Automotive Aftermarket Professional (MAAP) certifications.

For additional information regarding the Leadership 2.0 program, visit: www.northwood.edu/aftermarket.