Brooklyn Park, July 24, 2025 – Hennepin Technical College proudly honored the 37th graduating class of its Ford Automotive Student Service Education Training (ASSET) program, the only program of its kind in Minnesota, during a ceremony held on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at the Brooklyn Park Campus.
“This program is a model of excellence in technical education,” said Mark Johnson, Dean of Transportation Programs at Hennepin Technical College. “Our graduates leave here not only with the skills to succeed but also with real-world experience that sets them apart in the workforce.”
The ceremony featured remarks from faculty, industry partners, and alumni, as well as recognition of student achievements. Graduates were celebrated for their dedication, technical expertise, and commitment to advancing automotive service standards.
Ford ASSET was launched at Hennepin Tech in 1985 in collaboration with the Ford Motor Company and local Ford Dealers. Instructors Brian Friede, program faculty for nine years, and Drew Goddard, recently named a Senior Master Technician by Ford, are both proud graduates of the ASSET Program at Hennepin Tech.
The Ford ASSET program is a nationally recognized partnership between Ford Motor Company and community colleges, designed to prepare students for careers as highly skilled automotive service technicians. Through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on experience at sponsoring Ford and Lincoln dealerships, students graduate with both an associate degree and valuable industry certifications.
About Hennepin Technical College
Founded in 1972, Hennepin Tech is the largest stand-alone technical college in Minnesota. With campuses in Brooklyn Park and Eden Prairie, the college offers degree and non-degree courses in over 40 programs in the skilled trades and high-demand career fields. Achieving a high job placement rate, Hennepin Tech prepares students for high-paying employment opportunities.