This Five-Day Summer Camp Puts High Schoolers in the Driver’s Seat of their Future
Northwood University is revving up for another unforgettable summer as registration officially opens for Full Tank Automotive Camp, a high-octane residential experience that puts the pedal to the metal for high school students curious about the world of automotive careers.
Full Tank Automotive Camp — fueled by hands-on learning, real industry insights, and good old-fashioned fun — rolls into Northwood’s campus in Midland, Michigan, from June 14–19, 2026. This five-day immersion invites students entering grades 9 through 12 to explore career pathways in design, engineering, marketing, sales, operations, and more—all while building connections and igniting their ambition.
“Full Tank is about putting students in the driver’s seat of their future,” said Elgie Bright, chair of Northwood University’s Automotive Marketing and Management program. “They don’t just learn about automotive careers—they experience them. By the end of the week, campers leave with new skills, new confidence, and a clearer picture of how their interests can turn into real-world opportunities.”
“Full Tank Automotive Camp registration opens as Northwood University students, faculty, and staff are deeply involved with the National Automobile Dealers Association’s 2026 NADA Show — which is the automotive industry event of the year and one of the exciting experiential learning opportunities Northwood offers our automotive marketing and management students,” said Dr. Dave Oventhal, Division Chair for Northwood’s Center for Automotive & Mobility Studies. “Many of these students are integral in planning and executing Full Tank Automotive Camp.”
Throughout the week, Full Tank campers participate in interactive workshops, collaborate on creative projects, and take part in exciting field trips that connect classroom concepts to the real automotive industry. The experience also includes fun evening activities, opportunities to build friendships, and a celebratory finale showcasing the campers’ accomplishments.
What to expect at Full Tank Automotive Camp:
- Hands-on workshops and team challenges inspired by real automotive careers
- Field trips to the Automotive Hall of Fame and behind-the-scenes dealership tours
- Fun pit stops, including a Great Lakes Loons game at Dow Diamond and evening recreational activities
- Immersive networking opportunities with Northwood faculty, current students, and industry professionals
- A culminating celebration where campers show off their week’s achievements
Thanks to generous donor support—including a $100,000 sponsorship from General Motors—the cost of Full Tank Automotive Camp is significantly reduced from its full value, helping make the experience more accessible to students. A limited number of scholarships are also available.
Spots are limited, and demand is expected to be high. Be sure to register online!
