MIDLAND, Mich. — Epicor Software Corp. has donated $100,000 to Northwood University to fund a new lab for students to learn automotive aftermarket software.
"The generous donation from Epicor has provided funding to establish this new lab, which will integrate Epicor Auto-based products into higher education courses," Kristin Stehouwer, academic vice president and provost for Northwood University, said.
"The classes will be designed so students are educated in the use of Epicor Auto Product capabilities as they graduate and go into the marketplace, or in some cases, interview for employment at Epicor."
The lab course work will correlate to the current undergraduate program to enhance and reinforce classroom learning. Students who successfully complete the Epicor Lab series can apply and test for an industry certification.
The university plans to offer at least one upper-level and one lower-level course with an Epicor Lab each semester, Stehouwer said.
Epicor developed information technology for the aftermarket in the 1970s. Northwood said Epicor "is the only company that develops and delivers comprehensive aftermarket software solutions for every step in the industry value chain."
"Due to the amazing generosity of Epicor, Northwood students will experience industry-specific technology in the classroom," Thomas Litzinger, executive director of the University of the Aftermarket, said.
"Epicor will provide hands-on experience for our students and share how their platforms are integrated into our industry. We are so grateful for Epicor's loyal support and for investing in Northwood students, who are set apart, who raise the bar, and who make a difference."
