Nearly 20 students will gain hands-on industry experience and represent America’s Free Enterprise University at major automotive aftermarket gathering Nov. 3-5 in Las Vegas
More than 20 Northwood University students, faculty and staff have arrived in Las Vegas for the 2026 Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX), where students will work alongside leading companies, network with industry professionals and help honor distinguished leaders committed to advancing education.
The annual trade show, scheduled for Nov. 3-5 at the Venetian Expo and Caesars Forum in Las Vegas, brings together thousands of automotive aftermarket professionals, manufacturers, distributors and suppliers from around the world.
“Our students are not simply attending one of the industry’s most important events — they’re actively participating in it,” said Dr. Dave Oventhal, director of Northwood University’s Center for Automotive & Mobility Studies (CAMS) and Subaru of New England Professor of Automotive Strategy. “Whether they’re representing companies on the show floor or presenting awards to accomplished industry leaders, these experiences help our students build professional relationships and develop the skills and confidence they’ll need to succeed in their careers.”
Students will gain firsthand exposure to emerging technologies, business practices and industry trends while working alongside professionals representing some of the automotive aftermarket’s most recognizable companies.
“As the automotive aftermarket continues to evolve, preparing the next generation of talent remains a critical priority,” said James O’Dell, Northwood’s director of aftermarket education. “Our industry partners recognize the value of bringing students into the action at AAPEX. These opportunities connect classroom learning with real business experiences while introducing students to the people and organizations shaping the industry’s future.”
Northwood’s presence will also extend to the Automotive Aftermarket Management Education Awards Luncheon on Tuesday, Nov. 3. Four Northwood students — Elijah Smith, Kennedy Polzin, Kennedy Williams and Charles Baur — will serve as award presenters. Two others — Caleb Robinson and Chase Tesluck — will assist with the ceremony, which annually recognizes industry professionals who have made significant contributions to education, professional development and leadership throughout the automotive aftermarket.
Another highlight will be the return of MEYLE’s popular German license plate fundraiser benefiting Northwood University scholarships. Following a successful debut in 2025 that raised $14,171, the automotive aftermarket supplier will once again invite AAPEX attendees to create personalized German-style license plates in exchange for donations supporting the next generation of industry leaders.
Northwood students Jacob Bunting and Maglyn Nelson will work alongside MEYLE representatives at the company’s exhibit, helping connect visitors with the fundraiser and sharing their experiences as future automotive aftermarket professionals.
The following list includes other Northwood University students who are attending AAPEX 2026 with their respective company assignments:
• Brian Dennis — Dana
• Cameron Devine — Walker Products
• Jack DeWildt — Bosch
• Ryan Fritz — PHINIA
• Carter Keiser — Niterra/NGK
• Matthew Lupo — Epicor
• Wade McGowan — Schwartz Advisors
• William Morrison — Mod Steel
• Caden Olvey — LIQUI MOLY
• Amanda Zeller — DRiV
“The delegation reflects Northwood’s longstanding relationships with the automotive aftermarket and its commitment to connecting students with professional experiences beyond the classroom,” Oventhal stated. “Through CAMS and the University of the Aftermarket, Northwood continues to collaborate with industry partners to develop the next generation of business leaders while providing professional education and workforce development opportunities for today’s automotive professionals.”
To learn more about Northwood University’s Center for Automotive & Mobility Studies, visit northwood.edu/cams. For more information about the University of the Aftermarket, visit northwood.edu/academics/uofa. For details about AAPEX 2026, visit aapexshow.com.
Source: www.northwood.edu
