Registration is now open for Heavy Duty 101, a two-day deep dive into the heavy-duty automotive aftermarket. The event will be held June 6-7 at Delta Hotels by Marriott, 37529 Grand River, Farmington Hills, Michigan.

“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. 

“Most importantly, students will learn to distinguish themselves from the competition and dominate the marketplace,” Litzinger noted.

This year’s Heavy Duty 101 lineup includes:

• An overview of industry basics presented by Collin Shaw, MEMA chief commercial vehicle officer and chief operating officer for MEMA Original Equipment Suppliers, and Shannon O’Brien.

• A discussion from a truck original equipment manufacturer (OEM) perspective, presented by Dave McKean, executive vice president for Clarience.

• A discussion from a trailer OEM perspective, presented by Ben Brown, vice president of trailers, ZF.

• A presentation, “Heavy Duty Aftermarket By the Numbers,” by Molly MacKay of Mackay & Co.

• A look at aftermarket data by a representative from Pricedex.

• 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 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