John Witthauer Author

Christopher Hadfield is director the Minnesota Transportation Center of Excellence. Previous to this appointment, he was dean of career and technical education in Brainerd, Minnesota, capping a decade of experience as an automotive technology instructor at secondary and post-secondary schools, including stints as department chair and program coordinator. John Witthauer began his journey with Automotive by receiving his degree in Automotive Technology from Dunwoody College of Technology and studying computer science at the University of North Dakota. Before John’s current position as an Automotive Technology Instructor at Northeast Metro 916 Career and Technical Center he served as an Automotive Instructor and Career Specialist at Goodwill Easter Seals Automotive Training Program, he also served as an Automotive Technology Instructor at a post-secondary college for over 10 years. Within this role, John partnered with the Adult Basic Education program (ABE) and dedicated his skills to the creation and development of the Maintenance and Light Repair (MLR) program. In addition, John continued his love of teaching for General Motor’s (ASEP) Program, as well as the Customized Training and Continuing Education Program. Previous to teaching, John started his automotive career working for service stations and independent repair shops which grew into over 30 years’ experience as an ASE Master Certified Automotive Technician. By maintaining these credentials, John had the opportunity to work for several large GM dealerships. In addition to being ASE Master Certified and ASE L1 Advanced Certified, John has also earned the title of National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation’s (NATEF) On-Site Evaluation Team Leader (ETL), for college and high school program accreditation. Using his technical knowledge, MLR teaching experience, and passion to serve, John Witthauer brings a fresh perspective to the growing needs of the automotive industry.