UNOH Degree Worth it at Any Age

Posted on Thursday, April 15, 2021

Interior photo of one of UNOH graduate Chad Johnson's project vehicles.

Written by Communications Specialist Georgia Beard

When adults discover the University of Northwestern Ohio, representatives say, “it’s never too late to go back to school.” Many usually carry on after hearing that comment, but Chad Johnson took that statement seriously and was enrolled at age 38.

Chad studied Automotive and High Performance Motorsports Technology while at UNOH, and volunteered with the Engine Masters Challenge event. With his drive to be a recognized builder in the industry, Chad was able to form connections, expand his knowledge, and take his career even further.

Between owning Staffords Performance and working as the product engineer at Super Scout Specialists in Enon, Ohio, Chad uses the knowledge he gained at UNOH every day. Staffords Performance is where he builds one-off cars and does fabrication work. But those are not his only services, he also offers design and engineering as well. “I have a full-on fab shop with benders, breaks, welders, plasma cutters and a 4x8 Detrick Designs plasma table,” Chad says.

Chad’s passion is evident in his career and the hours he puts in daily. He uses motivation, passion, and creative freedom to be successful within the industry. “The best part of the industry is the look on people’s faces when you deliver a product,” Chad stated. “Sure, the money is important, but you can’t beat seeing that level of joy when you give someone something they’ve wanted and worked hard to get.”

The goal is to be a recognized builder in the industry, but more specifically Chad wants to take his Scout II Wide Body all electric super car to the SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) Show.

Chad attended UNOH with his wife. She received her Master of Business Administration degree, while he was in the College of Applied Technologies. “If you want a hands-on experience, while obtaining an education and have the time of your life while you do, then UNOH is the place,” Chad exclaimed.

“Keep your head up and your hands dirty,” Chad said as a message to future and current students. “Show the same level of respect that you would want. And always seek out knowledge and for the love of all things fast, have fun!” Chad lives out his passion of automotive and high performance machining at all stages of his life.

Category: Applied Technologies

Keywords: Chad Johnson, Engine Masters Challenge, Automotive, High Performance