The Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance Inc., in conjunction with Northwood University, has created a summer internship program for two students in Northwood’s Aftermarket Management Program for the summer of 2015. Arturo (A.J.) Rodriguez and Patrick Schmitter are the two candidates selected for participation in the program this summer.
“Working in the Alliance office allows students to apply what they’ve learned in school, and gain firsthand knowledge of the processes, services and responsibilities of a program group headquarters. It’s a great opportunity to partner with Northwood University to help develop the future of the industry,” said John Washbish, president and CEO of theAftermarket Auto Parts Alliance Inc.
The internship program emphasizes both practical and educational aspects of working in the automotive aftermarket industry from a hands-on perspective. Interns participate in the daily headquarters operations rotating through each department, engaging in regular business activities and attending meetings. The program emphasizes working in a fast-paced team environment. Upon completion of the internship program, the students will have gained broad experience in various aspects of the auto care industry in general, and marketing a program group specifically. They also will network with more than 100 industry leaders in manufacturing, distribution and trade media.
Having gained insight into the Alliance operations over the course of the summer, both Rodriguez and Schmitter will return to manage a group of more than 30 other Northwood University students during Industry Week in Las Vegas in November. At that time, the full assemblage of students will be assisting with the Alliance’s Aftermarket Jackpot Convention. They will assist the more than 4,000 convention attendees with registration, connecting attendees with more than 70 vendor channel partners who will be hosting the jobbers and installers during the AAPEX show.
Both Rodriguez, who is expected to graduate in May 2017, and Schmitter, who plans to graduate in December 2015, will be able to receive academic credit from Northwood University for their work.
