SOUTHFIELD, Mich. – A record 55 professionals representing 22 aftermarket organizations assembled at Federal-Mogul Corp.’s world headquarters in Southfield, Mich., Monday and again today for an introduction to industry practices, trends and emerging competitive issues through the University of the Aftermarket’s popular “Aftermarket 101” seminar. 
Participants in the day-and-a-half session include representatives of supplier organizations, distributors, program groups, sales and marketing firms and a professional motor sport sanctioning body.
“This seminar is an invaluable tool for organizations that want to help new employees better understand the complex issues at play in today’s aftermarket,” said Brian Cruickshank, MAAP, director of the University of the Aftermarket. “It’s exciting to see so many companies invest in their future through high-quality, industry-specific education.”
Monday’s agenda included discussions of the aftermarket’s history and structure, its impact on the North American economy and key competitive and legislative issues affecting industry businesses. The morning’s speakers included Cruickshank; Northwood University President and CEO Dr. Keith Pretty; Federal-Mogul Vice President of Customer Relations, Global Aftermarket Bob Egan; and Dr. Tim Nash, vice president of strategic and corporate alliances, Northwood University.
Following lunch, AAIA President and CEO Kathleen Schmatz offered her thoughts on the current state of the aftermarket, including the industry’s financial performance and key competitive and legislative issues. Jay Burkhart, Federal-Mogul senior vice president, global aftermarket, then expanded the program’s focus with a presentation on the issues driving growth and change in a variety of global markets.
Participants gained insight to the evolution of product distribution from Rick Guirlinger, vice president, strategic planning and analysis, General Parts International Inc., and competitive and operational issues impacting service dealers through a panel discussion moderated by ASE Senior Vice President Trish Serratore.
Aftermarket 101 continues through early afternoon today and will include a visit to Motown Automotive Distributing in Farmington Hills, Mich.
For additional information regarding Aftermarket 101 and other University of the Aftermarket programs, visit www.universityoftheaftermarket.com or call 1-800-551-2882.
