NAPA AUTO PARTS and the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) have named Michael Lavoie, of Haverhill, NH, the 2006 NAPA/ASE Technician of the Year. Presented annually by NAPA AUTO PARTS and ASE, the award is given to a technician that exemplifies excellence and achievement in the industry. This winner is selected by a panel that includes former winners, automotive trade media and ASE Headquarters.

Lavoie, owner of Lavoie’s NAPA AutoCare Center in Haverhill, has more than 25 years experience and is continually building on his personal skills and shops’ products and services. Lavoie possesses 34 ASE Certifications, and his NAPA AutoCare Center is an ASE Blue Seal of Excellence shop. He also invests in his workforce and can boast an ASE Certified Master Technician and an ASE Certified Service Writer among his staff.

"My team and I have built a NAPA AutoCare Center that we feel is a true benefit to our community. Winning this award is justification for the high standards that we’ve set," said Lavoie, who holds ASE Master Certifications in Automotive, Collision, School Bus and Engine Machinist categories. Lavoie’s resume includes extensive training and continuing education that add to his credentials and build his body of knowledge. His commitment to training extends to the staff at Lavoie’s NAPA AutoCare Center, where Lavoie is cultivating the next generation of superior technicians.

"The Technician of the Year award is the benchmark of excellence to which all technicians aspire," said Bob Susor, NAPA president. "Michael is committed to the auto repair industry, to maintaining its professionalism and to superior customer service. We are proud to count Michael among NAPA’s automotive repair professionals."

Lavoie’s commitment to NAPA is matched by his dedication to his industry and community. Lavoie has gone so far as to have the governor of New Hampshire declare a special Automotive Service Professional day in the state. In addition, Lavoie has provided more than $2,500 in scholarships to local high school students pursuing further education in the automotive field. He was also instrumental in organizing a Vin Waterhouse two-day seminar for area installers as well as enhancing his own knowledge with advanced training and seminars. As a valued member of his community Lavoie has served the local fire department for more than 34 years, 21 of those years as Haverhill Corner Fire Department Chief.

This year marks the eighth instance that Lavoie has been nominated by NAPA New England for the NAPA/ASE Technician of the Year award. In addition, Lavoie and his shop have been honored in the past by AAA as the New Hampshire Facility of the Year.

For more information about NAPA and vehicle care, visit www.NAPAAutoCare.com.