Do You Know These Technicians?
Of the more than 850,000 automotive technicians working in the United States, 18 outstanding individuals have qualified for the AAIA World Class Technician Award, the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA) announced recently. Each of these professional technicians tested and obtained ASE certification in 22 specialty areas during the 2007 test administrated by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
The 18 World Class Technicians are: Jason Hajek, Algonquin, IL; William Hambor, Mount Laurel, NJ; William Hart, Gurnee, IL; Timothy Hassett, Cooper City, FL; Paul Heschke, Red Wing, MN; Louis Luchsinger III, Rahway, NJ; Michael Porcelli, Glendale, NY; Teddy Rader, Nashville, TN; Dennis Ragosa, Surgoinsville, TN; Max Thomas, Walnut Creek, CA; John Titus, Imlay, MI; Mark Weller, Corona, CA; Jack Werner, Horizon City, TX; Charles Cloud, Cody, WY; Jeffrey Bambling, Orlando, FL; Andy Fletcher, Seattle, WA; Jeffrey Hansen, Big Rapids, MI; and Raymond Shagner, Los Angeles.
“The AAIA World Class Technician Award is for automotive diagnostic and repair professionals what the Super Bowl is for professional football players,” said Kathleen Schmatz, AAIA president and CEO. “Just imagine the knowledge and skills needed by a technician to pass 22 ASE tests. These folks are truly the best of the best and we are proud to be associated with them through our annual recognition in conjunction with ASE.”
Since the World Class recognition was established 21 years ago, only 1,723 technicians have been honored. Recipients receive a special certificate, an engraved toolbox plate and an embroidered shoulder insignia. Additionally, their name is perpetually inscribed in an honor book located in the Automotive Hall of Fame in Dearborn, MI.
AMI Announces Scholarships for CARS Attendance
The Automotive Management Institute (AMI) is accepting applications for its annual automotive aftermarket-based scholarships to aid shop owners and technicians who plan to attend the 2008 Congress of Automotive Repair and Service (CARS) program in November.
$1,000 Zurich “High Octane” Scholarship: AMI’s resource development effort, EXCEL, in conjunction with Zurich, formerly Universal Underwriters Group, established the scholarship, which is awarded to an Automotive Service Association (ASA) Mechanical Division member who strives to be, or is presently working in, a management capacity.
$1,000 Automotive Video Inc. (AVI) Scholarship: This scholarship, in conjunction with AVI, was established to help automotive service professionals obtain the management education and technical training essential for success in today’s ever-changing industry.
AVI, a leader in automotive diagnostic and repair training programs for automotive repair professionals since 1994, will fund the scholarship using proceeds from its “Casino Night,” a fundraising effort held during AVI’s Annual Training Conference. The success of this year’s event will fund three $1,000 scholarships.
$1,000 Tom B. Babcox Memorial Scholarship: This scholarship, in conjunction with Babcox Publications, is awarded to an ASA Mechanical Division member who strives to be, or is presently working in, a management capacity.
All of the AMI scholarships will be applied toward the recipient’s expenses to attend the 2008 CARS in Las Vegas, Nov. 5-8. CARS is sponsored by ASA and offers an educational lineup of AMI seminars, technical training courses and industry sessions, a trade show and the opportunity to network with other automotive service professionals.
