Students Drive Success at Northwood University Auto Show

The 62nd Northwood University International Auto Show took place from September 19 to 21, 2023, in Midland, Michigan, showcasing the impressive talents of students who organized the event. This year’s show featured over 65 car brands, ranging from everyday vehicles to modified and rare hyper cars, attracting a diverse audience eager to explore the latest in automotive innovation.

Student involvement was a hallmark of this year’s auto show, with participants taking on various roles to enhance their experience and improve job prospects after graduation. Freshman Nick Horn, who plays on the university’s baseball team, noted, “If you walk around you will see students everywhere and not much staff. The undergrads did a lot of the heavy lifting for this show.” Horn, majoring in entrepreneurship with a focus on the automotive aftermarket, expressed pride in contributing to such a significant event.

Highlighting Innovation and Collaboration

The show featured a wide array of vehicles, including race cars, super cars, emergency vehicles, and even a military armored personnel carrier. Alongside these attractions, food trucks ensured that attendees remained well-fed and hydrated throughout the three-day event. Denielson Hernandez, a freshman majoring in automotive marketing, participated by working at the Infiniti exhibit. He explained, “Our students were assigned randomly or they pick which automaker they want to work with,” emphasizing the hands-on experience gained through the show.

Many dealerships from across Michigan showcased their latest models, allowing spectators to interact closely with the vehicles. Most cars had their doors unlocked, inviting guests to sit inside and experience the interiors firsthand. Each automaker had a student available to discuss the vehicles and their features, fostering a rich educational environment.

Exclusive Hyper Cars Steal the Spotlight

A key attraction at this year’s event was a stunning collection of hyper cars, valued at over $12 million. These rare vehicles were provided by the Winkleman Collection, owned by an anonymous alumnus of Northwood University. This collector, known only as “Mr. Winkleman,” maintains a low profile while sharing his passion for cars with the university community.

The hyper cars displayed included a Bugatti Mistral, Koenigsegg Agera RS, McLaren P1, Hennessey Venom F5, and a Ferrari LaFerrari previously owned by the rapper Drake. These vehicles not only attracted significant attention but also featured a dedicated security presence, highlighting their rarity and value.

The Northwood University International Auto Show stands as a testament to the institution’s commitment to practical learning and student engagement. Through this student-led initiative, participants gained valuable experience while showcasing their skills to industry professionals. As students like Horn and Hernandez prepare for their future careers, events like this provide essential opportunities to connect with the automotive world.