BIG RAPIDS, Mich. — A group of Ferris State University students is being recognized for their quick thinking and professionalism after stepping in to assist the university’s dean with unexpected car trouble.
The incident unfolded when Kate O'Connor, the Dean of the College of Engineering Technology, had a warning light come on in her car. Instead of heading to a repair shop, she decided to call on the university's own automotive service department for help.
"I had one of the first chances to have students work on my car," O'Connor explained. "When I tried to start the vehicle, all sorts of alarms went off, but nothing happened."
O'Connor was greeted by the students in the department. "I was escorted right to the registration window and treated with the utmost respect," she said. "I would never have known they weren’t professional mechanics if I hadn't been told."
The students who assisted O'Connor are part of Ferris State’s well-regarded automotive program, which trains students to become skilled automotive technicians. The program combines both classroom learning and hands-on experience, giving students the opportunity to work on real-world problems.
Isaac, a senior in the program, shared how the practical aspects of the curriculum help him understand his coursework. "You can talk about concepts in the classroom, but once you actually work on a car and see how the components move and operate, everything clicks into place," he said.
Juan Serrano, another senior, emphasized the real-world value of the program. "Many colleges offer certificates, but Ferris State gives you the opportunity to actually work on cars and gain practical experience that employers are looking for," he said.
The incident not only highlighted the students' skills but also demonstrated the effectiveness of Ferris State University's hands-on learning approach in preparing students for successful careers in the automotive industry.
The university does not charge for labor other than a $10 shop fee to cover some costs. Customers are charged for parts, which are purchased through Ferris State’s accounts to ensure repair accuracy, part warranty and timely vehicle turnaround.
If you are interested in making an appointment, Contact the Automotive Service Floor at (231) 591-5991 or email Auto@Ferris.edu.