Save the Date: 63rd Northwood University International Auto Show is Sept. 18–20, 2026!
Sophomore Caden Olvey, a Traverse City native with a lifelong passion for the automotive aftermarket, has been named Aftermarket Chair of the 63rd Northwood University International Auto Show (NUIAS), set for Sept. 18–20, 2026, in Midland, Michigan.
The largest outdoor, student-led auto show in America, NUIAS will return next fall with the newly announced theme “Northwood Drives America,” a nod to the nation’s 250th anniversary, and a celebration of the shared legacy of freedom, innovation, and entrepreneurship that defines both Northwood and the American automotive industry.
“Caden is an exceptional student leader who embodies Northwood’s spirit of enterprise and innovation,” said Dr. David Oventhal, Center for Automotive & Mobility Studies division chair and Subaru of New England professor of automotive strategy. “His technical background, industry experience, and passion for the aftermarket make him the perfect fit to lead this important division of our show. We’re excited to see his leadership come to life as Northwood prepares for a milestone year that will highlight our university’s deep ties to the automotive and mobility industries.”
Over the past two years, Olvey served as a captain for Gates and LiquiMoly in the NUIAS Aftermarket Division. His new appointment marks the next step in a hands-on journey that has been years in the making.
“I’ve always loved the aftermarket industry because of the creativity it allows and the community it builds,” Olvey shared. “Working in the aftermarket lot as a captain was incredibly rewarding, but I knew I wanted to take on a bigger role. When the opportunity arose to serve as Aftermarket Chair, it was an easy decision.”
Olvey’s passion for cars began at home. His father owns an independent repair shop in Empire, Michigan, where a shared project car — a 2005 Acura RSX — helped fuel Caden’s interest in automotive customization and repair.
“That experience with my dad really ignited my love for cars,” he said. “When I discovered Northwood, it felt like finding gold — a place where my interests in business, leadership, and the automotive world could come together.”
Olvey learned about Northwood University through a college fair at his local community college. “After seeing their specialty in the automotive industry, I knew Northwood was the place for me,” he said. “The classes are geared toward what I love, and the friendships, connections, and networking I’ve experienced here have been incredibly meaningful.”
Olvey’s selection as Aftermarket Chair comes at a time of growing excitement around Northwood’s automotive ecosystem. Next week, he’ll join a delegation of students, faculty, and staff traveling to Las Vegas for the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) and Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show — the world’s premier gatherings for the global automotive aftermarket and performance industries.
“The automotive aftermarket represents one of the most dynamic and creative sectors in our industry,” Oventhal added. “Having students like Caden who are not only passionate but also already active in the field underscores why Northwood graduates are in such high demand across the aftermarket and mobility landscape.”
The 2026 Northwood University International Auto Show will be led by General Chair Chase Southwick, a junior with close ties to the Motor City who is eager to use the 63rd NUIAS to pay tribute to the entrepreneurial spirit that drives both the nation and Northwood University.
