Local Auto Supplier Helps Power Up OCC’s Automotive Servicing Program Experiences

OCC Automotive Faculty Claude Townsend's conversation with representatives from auto supplier TREMEC during the Mopar Roadkill Nights event, which is part of the Woodward Dream Cruise, resulted in the company donating six transmissions to OCC for use in classes in the Automotive Servicing program.

Claude Townsend
OCC's Automotive Servicing faculty Claude Townsend picks up transmissions donated by TREMEC in Novi.

Townsend said he approached TREMEC’s exhibit booth during the Mopar Roadkill event looking for information on updating his course curriculum with up-to-date equipment and ramping up students’ hands-on experiences. 

“Both gentlemen asked if I could use some transmissions that were warranty returns. I could not say ‘Yes!’ fast enough,” said Townsend. “This was a dream come true since we just ordered some for students. The additional transmissions allow our OCC Automobile Servicing program to have extra training aids that can be utilized in new and different ways.” 

TREMEC, located in Novi, provides vehicle torque transfer solutions, including manual and dual-clutch transmissions.  

OCC automotive instructor Bob Kirchhoff plans to use the transmissions as part of his Manual Transmission and Axle Service class.   

“The great thing about these transmissions is that they feature both older and newer technologies which gives our students experience with transmissions they will see in both newer and older vehicles as new automotive service technicians,” said Kirchoff. “We are extremely grateful to TREMEC for this generous donation so our students can get valuable hands-on experience in our auto class.” 

For more information about OCC’s Automotive Servicing program, visit https://www.oaklandcc.edu/programs/aus/ 

 About OCC    

Oakland Community College offers nearly 100 degrees and certificates programs with the resources students need to be successful and advance our community. As a top transfer institution, OCC offers one of the state’s most affordable tuition rates and flexibility in scheduling with face-to-face and online options. The College is nationally recognized for its high-demand career training with expert faculty in their fields. More than 1 million students have enrolled in the College since it opened in 1965. Learn more at  oaklandcc.edu.   

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