Mid Michigan College’s Automotive & Diesel Service Program has a long history of providing students with an education that features current technologies and leads to meaningful careers.
The program is housed at the Clare-Gladwin Regional Education Service District’s (CG-RESD) Magnus Center facility—a new facility featuring the latest technologies and a dynamic learning environment.
Recently, the program received a donation of a 2015 Ford Fiesta, 2016 Ford Focus, and a 2024 Ford Mustang from the Midland Ford Lincoln dealership in Midland. The donation is valued at nearly $80,000.
These vehicles will allow students to learn on the latest technologies in the industry and encourage more students to explore automotive-related careers.
“We’re grateful to receive this generous donation on behalf of the College, and appreciate the support of our local partners, which allows us to continue training our students on top-notch technology so they are ready to enter the workforce successfully,” shared Shawn Troy, Dean of Workforce and Career Education at Mid.
The program offers a two-year associate degree and one-year training credential, and both pathways allow students to fast-track their progress by completing a course every three weeks.
“Students benefit from extensive hands-on training in a lab environment, providing them with real-world work experience,” explained Troy.
Mid is the first Ford ACE Program college in the state of Michigan. The ACE program, which stands for Automotive Career Exploration, is a partnership program between Ford Motor Company, Ford/Lincoln dealerships, and secondary and post-secondary educational institutions, with the intent to raise awareness and increase interest in career opportunities within the automotive industry.
“As a local employer, it’s important to us to encourage students to pursue automotive careers and to help when we can by expanding their access to new technologies,” shared Mickelle Wiegert of Midland Ford Lincoln. “Our partnership with Mid continues to evolve and we’re eager and happy to support these students and help them succeed.”
Mid’s program also offers students the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications through the College’s partnership with the National Certification Center or NC3. These certifications are offered through NC3 by industry leaders like Snap-on, and allow students to clearly demonstrate the skills they have mastered to potential employers.
“At Mid we pride ourselves on meeting students where the rubber meets the road,” noted Tim Hood, Mid Michigan College President. “By collaborating with our partners, like Midland Ford Lincoln, students develop key skills that employers seek out when hiring new team members—a true win-win for all involved.”
For more information about Mid’s Automotive & Diesel Service Program, visit midmich.edu/auto or contact Dean Shawn Troy at stroy@midmich.edu or (989) 386-6658.
