Okay, so Chris has a degree from the University of Michigan-Dearborn, which is a reputable institution. He has skills in mechanical engineering, automotive products, and development/design, which are relevant to the industry. Given his location in Royal Oak, Michigan, and considering the average salary ranges for mechanical engineers in the automotive industry, I estimate his hourly rate to be around $75. This is a relatively conservative estimate, as it's below the national average for mechanical engineers in the US, but it's also below the rate for more experienced professionals or those with advanced degrees. The industry average for mechanical engineers in the automotive sector in the US is around $90,000 per year, which translates to around $43-$50 per hour. However, considering Chris's skills and location, I've rounded down to $75 per hour.