As anyone who has been following the news lately will no doubt be aware, the American auto industry has recently been experiencing some less-than-ideal times. Certainly, this is a matter of potential concern for many Michigan Tech students, particularly those in engineering departments. Traditionally, General Motors, Ford and Chrysler have been present and recruiting at the Career Fair; at this spring’s event, only Ford was present.

Yet, the situation may not be as dire as it first appears. Dr. William Predebon, Chair of the Mechanical Engineering department, says that Michigan Tech’s degree programs are diverse enough to cushion students and graduates from a blow to any particular industry. There is no automotive engineering degree; rather, students study a broad engineering program that prepares them for work in many different industries and offers electives based on their specific interests. Individual students may need to make adjustments, says Dr. Predebon, but the department already provides a balanced program. Other companies that seek engineers are still hiring, and Michigan Tech has a strong record of getting its students hired.

And even with troubled economic times, people will still buy cars. Both Dr. Predebon and Jim Turnquist, Director of the Career Center, expressed confidence that the American auto industry will survive the recession. Even if one of the three companies collapses, the others will recover. When the auto makers faced similar economic dilemmas in the 1980s, the University diversified its engineering program. Most Tech students are hired into other industries.

Meanwhile, Michigan Tech is working to bring other industries, such as energy-related ones, to the Career Fairs. Several such companies were present at this spring’s Career Fair, as well as several companies that support the auto industry. While students may have to adjust their career plans slightly to accommodate the economy, Dr. Predebon and Jim Turnquist are both confident that Michigan Tech graduates are well prepared for their careers.