Ferris State University’s long-respected Automotive learning programs have gone into another gear in 2023 with new certificate offerings providing skills in emerging fields while promoting the Associate of Applied Science Automotive Service Technology degree to support the demand for qualified technicians in dealerships and repair shops.

Jason Kruse, a Ferris State Automotive alumnus, said an Automotive Service certificate program educates students on par with the leading trade schools and training centers nationally. 

“A ‘One and Done’ certificate allows a student to go to work in the field, where their earnings in the marketplace limit their debt-to-income ratio,” said Kruse, an associate professor and program coordinator for Automotive Science. “The rest of our Associate of Applied Science degree in Automotive Service Technology is available online, so they can continue their learning and build their stature in this high-demand field.” 

Another Ferris certificate, in its first stages, focuses on Electronic Vehicle Service. Patrick English is a professor in the School of Automotive and Heavy Equipment. English said this is designed for the mechanic and technician in the field. 

“Being credentialed in the skills to service electric vehicles is important to these professionals, given their significant presence in the marketplace,” English said. “The industry is very interested in bringing the learning to a wider audience, and this will allow us to put our program strength toward in-demand offerings and help develop service talent capable of addressing future technologies.” 

English will advise Michigan and South Carolina colleges and universities looking to establish programs in EV training, thanks to a grant from the National Science Foundation. English said federal funding is an important resource for advanced learning, and he hopes to hear soon about a request for additional support for Ferris State’s Automotive program. 

“We would hope to create an Associate of Applied Science degree in Sustainable Automotive Service,” English said. “That would encompass electric vehicles and any other emerging technologies delivered by automakers. We are pleased that the industry’s interest in greater technician support in all phases of service is greater than ever.” 

Kruse’s duties in the Automotive department have also been adjusted to greater outreach, as it applies to program development and placement of graduates.” 

“We have always enjoyed and will continue our promotion of Ferris Automotive graduates, from those earning certificates to our bachelor’s degree recipients,” Kruse said. “We are finding great interest in these students from car dealerships, original equipment manufacturers and other corporations.” 

More information is available online to highlight learning and career opportunities through Ferris’ Automotive programs.