Automotive Directory

Adam Karch

Career & Technical Education Associate Dean

Office: M122

akarch@parkland.edu

217/353-3356

BS in Organizational and Professional Development
Eastern Illinois University, Charleston

AAS in Automotive Technology
Parkland College

Adam’s interest in the automotive industry started at a very young age. His father was the chief mechanic for an SCCA road-race team, which took Adam to many racetracks around the region. Adam’s dad later opened his own local automotive service shop, which continued to grow Adam’s passion for cars. By the time he was getting his first car, he’d developed a strong interest in Japanese cars.

Prior to joining Parkland’s Automotive program, Adam worked as an automotive technician at Rick’s Automotive Service. In 2009, Adam taught his first Parkland class, AFD 117 Basic Automotive Electrical Controls, as a part-time instructor. AFD 117 is still one of Adam’s favorite classes to teach. Adam transitioned to teaching full time at Parkland, and is now the Automotive Technology Program Director, overseeing the comprehensive automotive program and the motorsport program.

Many project cars have made their way through Adam’s garage over the years. His current project is the most unique – a 1970 Datsun 510. Adam’s YouTube channel can viewed at https://www.youtube.com/c/AdamsAnalysis.