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University of the Aftermarket Leadership 2.0 Session Underway


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, through Northwood University, is holding Session I of its Leadership 2.0 course. The first five-day session continues through August 15. Northwood calls the class in tactical leadership for the aftermarket “a tremendous learning experience, with excellent presenters and supporters.”

Leadership 2.0 includes a blend of industry research and market analysis, discussion and debate on the challenges confronting the light vehicle and heavy-duty aftermarket. Also discussed are competitive strategies, interpersonal communication skills, contract negotiations, conflict resolution, organizational culture, cyber-security best practices, insight into supply chain solutions, and other industry topics and trends.

Jennifer Cothran, the director of content at The Pronto Network, provided her account of the first day of the session:

“I am beyond excited to see what this week has in store for us. We kicked off today’s event with meeting our colleagues and opened with an exciting and inspiring conversation with two of Northwood’s best – Dr. Thomas Litzinger who encouraged us to be open this week, and from James O’Dell and what we could look forward on having an engaged class – on our own or with his help.

They saved the best for last as we heard from Lisa Foshee from the Auto Care Association. Her unique take on leadership and relating them to the game of basketball – Show up and BE present, DO bold things, and DO what you say you’re going to DO – were some of the takeaways. I can’t say I’ve talked about basketball that much before and based on her stories I’m glad I’m not a fan of her team’s rival! Hearing from other colleagues also sharing their perspectives from making all interactions personal, to a good/bad “Dad” joke, a coloring book to a just simple “hi, how are you?” can be bold moves to show presence and create those important relations and moments.

Not all of us can show up for their family to build a kitchen before we left for Leadership 2.0 as one of our attendees did, but taking time away from family and work to attend this “life changing”  event is definitely a bold adventure for all of us. I’m looking forward to learning other unique experiences from the lineup of amazing speakers and from my fellow colleagues in attendance.

Thank you to AWDA for this amazing opportunity as a scholarship recipient and to The Pronto Network and the team left at home to take care of business. And, lastly, to my family who I’ve left at home –  Thank you for taking on additional responsibilities for me to take advantage of this opportunity as learning never stops!

Session II of Leadership 2.0 will be held March 11-16, 2025.

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