After raising more than $14,000 in 2025, automotive aftermarket supplier returns with unique opportunity to support future industry leaders!
Following a successful debut that raised more than $14,000 for Northwood University scholarships, MEYLE is bringing back its popular German license plate fundraiser at the 2026 Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX), Nov. 3-5, in Las Vegas.
AAPEX attendees will once again have the opportunity to create personalized German-style license plates while supporting the next generation of automotive aftermarket professionals. The fundraiser, hosted at MEYLE’s exhibit, will feature a German license plate stamping machine that will allow visitors to create custom MEYLE-branded plates in exchange for donations benefiting Northwood students.
Last year’s initiative generated $9,171 in donations, which MEYLE supplemented with a $5,000 matching contribution, bringing the total raised to $14,171.
“MEYLE’s decision to bring this fundraiser back speaks volumes about the company’s commitment to developing the next generation of aftermarket leaders,” said Dr. Dave Oventhal, director of the Center for Automotive & Mobility Studies and the Subaru of New England Professor of Automotive Strategy at Northwood University. “What makes this initiative particularly meaningful is that it brings our students and industry professionals together while generating scholarship support that helps students pursue their career aspirations.”
Northwood students worked alongside company representatives at MEYLE’s exhibit during AAPEX 2026, where visitors could receive a custom plate for a minimum donation, with 100% of the proceeds going toward Northwood scholarships. The activity became a popular attraction and helped connect students with industry professionals.
The partnership has already made a difference for Northwood students.
Earlier this year, Quinn Balcam, an automotive aftermarket management major from Bloomington, Indiana, became the first recipient of the MEYLE scholarship. Balcam, the president of Northwood’s student aftermarket club, has demonstrated his commitment to the industry through multiple internships, leadership in the aftermarket division of the Northwood University International Auto Show and participation in events including AAPEX, SEMA and Heavy-Duty Aftermarket Week.
The scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate academic achievement, industry involvement, leadership and a commitment to the principles of The Northwood Idea, including the importance of personal responsibility and earned success.
“Seeing the funds raised at AAPEX translate into scholarship support for a student like Quinn illustrates why partnerships like this are so important,” said James O’Dell, director of aftermarket education at Northwood University. “The automotive aftermarket needs talented, motivated young professionals, and MEYLE is helping our students gain both the financial support and industry connections they need to succeed.”
MEYLE’s commitment also reflects the industry’s broader investment in education and workforce development.
“Supporting the next generation of aftermarket leaders is core to MEYLE’s mission,” said Jason Pugh, CEO of MEYLE North America, following last year’s fundraiser. “These future leaders bring energy, curiosity, and fresh thinking to the aftermarket, and we’re proud to play a role in helping them build meaningful careers.”
Northwood will again have a presence at AAPEX, one of the automotive aftermarket industry’s leading trade shows, where students have opportunities to network with executives, explore emerging technologies and connect classroom learning with real-world business practices. To learn more about opportunities available through Northwood’s Center for Automotive & Mobility Studies, visit northwood.edu/cams. For information about the University of the Aftermarket, visit northwood.edu/academics/uofa.
