In today’s episode, Pierre Michiels interviews Joe Aranki. Joe Aranki is the Automotive Program Coordinator and professor at College of DuPage with over 30 years of experience in the automotive industry. In the interview, Joe shares his journey from technician to educator, discusses the evolution of modern vehicles, the skills taught in COD’s automotive program, and how students can prepare for careers in this high-demand field. After listening to this episode, we hope you have a better understanding of career paths and opportunities in the automotive industry.
View the College of DuPage Automotive program
Contact the Automotive program or Joe Aranki directly by emailing arankij@cod.edu
Full episode transcript can be found on the episode page. Below is a general timestamp summary.
00:00:00 – 00:00:30 | Introduction & Guest Welcome
Host Pierre Michiels introduces the episode and welcomes Joe Aranki, Automotive Program Coordinator and professor at College of DuPage.
00:00:30 – 00:01:09 | Joe’s Background & Career Path
Joe shares his journey from growing up fixing cars with his father to attending trade school, opening his own shop, and transitioning into teaching.
00:01:09 – 00:02:27 | Overview of COD Automotive Program
Discussion of program goals: teaching students to diagnose and repair modern vehicles, articulation agreements for advanced degrees, and career opportunities.
00:02:27 – 00:03:59 | Staying Current with Technology
Joe explains how COD invests in the latest tools and vehicles, ensuring students learn cutting-edge systems and instructors maintain ongoing training.
00:03:59 – 00:06:01 | Skills Beyond Technical Knowledge
Conversation shifts to soft skills like time management, efficiency, and teamwork, which are critical for success in the automotive industry.
00:06:01 – 00:07:00 | Exploring the Field & Getting Started
Advice for aspiring professionals: take introductory classes, seek mentorship, and gain exposure through entry-level roles or networking.
00:07:00 – 00:09:27 | Preparing Students for Industry
Joe highlights how the program teaches problem-solving and system-level understanding rather than memorization, fostering adaptability and technology agility.
00:09:27 – End | Final Advice & Resources
Joe emphasizes the importance of passion, networking, and early experience. He shares resources for learning more about COD’s automotive program and offers personal support.
Listeners in the College of DuPage community can visit our website. All other listeners are encouraged to view the resources of their local community college, WIOA training programs, or other local support centers.
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