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Author: Professional Technician Staff

  • Decisiv honors dealers, fleets using its SRM

    Decisiv honors dealers, fleets using its SRM

    Decisiv, Inc., a provider of Service Relationship Management (SRM) solutions, recently announced their service excellence recognition of the 10 top performing dealers and fleets across North America that have demonstrated exceptional proficiency and measurable results through their use of Decisiv SRM in 2025.

    The top performing dealers using Decisiv SRM include:

    • Gabrielli
    • Gordon Truck Centers (dba Freightliner Northwest, Western Star Northwest, TrailerCraft and Freightliner of Hawaii.)
    • Inland Kenworth
    • Nextran
    • RWC Group

    The top performing fleets using Decisiv SRM included:

    • Bulkmatic Transportation Company
    • Highway Transport
    • Kenan Advantage Group
    • Magnum LTD
    • Oakley Transport

    “The top performing fleets and dealers are using Decisiv SRM for exactly what it was designed to do,” said Tim Hardin, president and CEO of Decisiv. “They are optimizing the entire service workflow process by streamlining communication, approvals and service coordination for all repairs and maintenance. Decisiv Service Excellence recognition honors those dealers and fleets who have embraced SRM-driven best practices and consistently achieved measurable improvements across their service operations.”

  • JLG Industries addresses need for skilled workers with several programs, partnerships

    JLG Industries addresses need for skilled workers with several programs, partnerships

    JLG Industries, Inc., an Oshkosh Corporation business and a manufacturer of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) and telehandlers, recently announced it is addressing skilled labor shortages and workforce development by taking what it called “an intentional, people-first approach to rebuilding the industrial talent pipeline in America.”  

    Through partnerships with high schools, technical colleges, trade associations and industry organizations, the company is helping students discover careers in the trades while giving current workers opportunities to advance their craft. The result is a growing community of homegrown welders, painters, assemblers, manufacturing and robotics engineers, maintenance professionals, service technicians and equipment operators ready to power the future of construction and manufacturing, according to a statement from JLG.

    “In America today, there are more students who want hands-on technical education than there are classroom seats available,” said Andy Tacelosky, chief operating officer at JLG. “We saw an opportunity, not just to hire talent but to help create it one student, one trainee and one craft professional at a time. These programs give people a pathway to build a career, earn a living and stay in the communities they love.”

    School-to-Work: Cultivating New Craft Professionals in Pennsylvania

    JLG’s School-to-Work (S2W) program allows high school juniors and seniors local to its manufacturing facilities in McConnellsburg, Shippensburg, Bedford, Greencastle and Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, to earn school credit while working paid roles in welding, assembly, painting, fabrication, warehouse support and more. Students receive real-world experience, mentorship and the chance to transition into full-time roles after graduation. S2W+ — an advanced extension of the program — places students in specialized roles like maintenance, robotics, machining, engineering and testing for deeper technical exposure.

    “Our School-to-Work program gives young people a real opportunity to help us rebuild the future of the skilled trades,” says Tacelosky. “These are students who want to work with their hands and solve real problems, but the classroom alone can’t always give them that experience. Through S2W and S2W+, they earn school credit, a paycheck and the chance to work alongside experienced professionals. We’re creating more skilled workers in the Pennsylvanian communities where our team members live and work, as well as shaping the next generation of craft professionals and manufacturing leaders.”

    TCAT Partnership: Developing Technical Talent in Tennessee

    Starting in 2025, JLG established a partnership with the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT), which is in close proximity to the company’s manufacturing facility in Jefferson City, Tennessee, to integrate technical education with real-world factory experience. After campus visits, interviews and plant tours, several students are now working part-time on JLG’s maintenance team while attending school. These students rotate between first and second shift to learn from specialists across multiple disciplines

    “This is what modern technical education should look like,” said Tacelosky. “Students are learning in class and applying it in real-world situations the same day.”

    Upskilling the Trades: Investing in Team Members

    While JLG said it is deeply committed to developing future talent through schools, the company is equally focused on investing in those already working in the trades. Through its internal trainee programs, JLG is helping current team members and new hires advance into high-demand skilled positions — particularly in areas like welding and industrial painting, where manufacturers across the country struggle to hire experienced workers.

    JLG’s Weld Trainee Program provides entry-level team members and external candidates with the opportunity to become certified welders. Participants complete three to four weeks of classroom and lab-based instruction, followed by three weeks of on-the-job training alongside experienced JLG welders. Similarly, the Paint Trainee Program is designed to develop industrial painters from within the workforce. Through hands-on training and mentorship, participants gain the skills needed to move into full-time painter roles. 

    “Welding and painting require skill, safety, precision and pride in craft, and these are often some of the most difficult roles in manufacturing to fill,” says Tacelosky. “Instead of waiting for talent to come to us, we’re choosing to grow it — building careers and strengthening our workforce for the future.”

    Beyond JLG: Partnering to Build the Industry

    JLG’s workforce commitment goes beyond its own facilities. The company partners with trade associations, unions, training schools and equipment rental providers to upskill craft professionals across North America in operating and servicing MEWPs (mobile elevating work platforms) and telehandlers. These partnerships include organizations such as: Associated Builders & Contractors , Association of General Contractors, Association of the Wall & Ceiling Industry, Mason Contractors Association of America, Steel Erectors Association of America, regional apprenticeships, trade unions, community colleges and correctional/vocational programs.

    “We know we can’t solve the skilled labor shortage on our own. That’s why we’re partnering with trade associations, unions, technical schools and industry groups to help upskill these professionals to bring real-world equipment, certified training and industry standards directly to the people who need it most,” says Tacelosky. “Working alongside these organizations, we’re not just training people; we’re helping them build lasting careers. It’s good for workers, it’s good for employers and it’s good for the future of the trades.”

    Through JLG University, the company delivers hands-on operator training, telehandler service instruction and ANSI/OSHA-compliant safety education to thousands of workers each year — helping contractors and employers employ safe, capable crews.

    Creating the Future, Together

    These investments are not short-term initiatives; they are part of a long-term vision for American manufacturing, according to the company.

    “We’re not just preparing people for jobs,” said Tacelosky. “We’re helping them build meaningful careers. And in doing so, we’re helping strengthen the trades, the industry and the communities we’re proud to call home.”

  • PACCAR Parts offers TRP Diagnostic Pro for all makes, models of trucks

    PACCAR Parts offers TRP Diagnostic Pro for all makes, models of trucks

    PACCAR Parts recently announced the launch of the TRP Diagnostic Pro for all makes and models of commercial trucks across the U.S. and Canada. This new tool is built for service shop professionals, fleets, and technicians who desire expedited diagnostic results.

    The TRP Diagnostic Pro is preloaded with all-makes diagnostic software that allows service providers to efficiently perform routine maintenance and repairs. Additionally, the tool is a means to enhance all-makes service capabilities and expand parts-related opportunities at dealerships.

    The TRP Diagnostic Pro equips users with access to fault codes, wiring diagrams, and detailed step-by-step instructions that streamline the diagnostic and repair process. Key features including live data, forced regeneration, bi-directional testing, and system resets allow technicians to achieve faster repair times, reduce customer downtime, and complete more jobs in less time.

    The TRP Diagnostic Pro is available in two kit variations. The first option provides diagnostic software loaded onto a durable laptop with a rugged weather-resistant carrying case. The second kit option features just diagnostic software, intended for users who already own compatible hardware to maximize their existing investments.

    Both kit options include a Diesel Decoder, which enables compatible Bluetooth devices to serve as a powerful all-makes heavy duty diagnostic tool. Users simply connect the device to any make or model of truck to view and clear fault codes, receive detailed repair information, and download vehicle health reports.

    Customer service and support for the TRP Diagnostic Pro will be provided by Diesel Laptops, a provider of diesel diagnostic software, hardware and training for commercial trucks and off-highway vehicles.

    “The TRP Diagnostic Pro complements our all-makes product line and is designed to empower service professionals and truck owners to accelerate the diagnostic and repair process,” said Mike Sharpe, PACCAR Parts Director of TRP. “With flexible kit options and convenient integration with existing hardware, the TRP Diagnostic Pro delivers value and efficiency, helping reduce downtime and get trucks back on the road faster.”

    The kits can be purchased from Kenworth and Peterbilt dealers, as well as TRP stores and Online Parts Counter.

  • Best wishes for a successful and prosperous New Year!

    Best wishes for a successful and prosperous New Year!

  • New from Milwaukee: 366-piece master mechanic hand tool set in Packout drawers

    New from Milwaukee: 366-piece master mechanic hand tool set in Packout drawers

    Milwaukee has introduced a collection of hand tools, wrenches and ratchets in its signature Packout tool box system. The 366-piece set includes:

    • 242-piece set with 1/4”, 3/8”, & 1/2” drive metric and SAE ratchet and socket set in a four-drawer tool box
    • 60-piece metric and SAE combination wrench set with a four-drawer tool box
    • 64-piece hand tool set with four-drawer tool box
    • Packout dolly

    The set is available online for $3,999.99.

  • Mayhew Tools updates its website

    Mayhew Tools updates its website

    Mayhew Tools has a new website  mayhew.com!

    The company said it has a more intuitive layout and streamlined navigation, making it easier to explore its full line of professional-grade tools.

    On the new site, you can:

    The maker of hand tools is located in Turners Falls, Massachusetts.

  • Victory Tire & Auto acquires another Minnesota repair operation

    Victory Tire & Auto acquires another Minnesota repair operation

    Victory Tire & Auto recently announced the acquisition of Twin River Tire & Auto, a three-unit auto repair operation in Minnesota. This is Victory’s 27th location in Minnesota.

    Twin River Tire & Auto operates Granite City Tire & Auto, with locations in St. Cloud and Sartell, and Plaza Tire & Auto in Alexandria. The company said this acquisition expands Victory Tire & Auto’s footprint in northwest Minneapolis and establishes a presence in a new Minnesota market.

    “The addition of the Granite City Tire & Auto shops and Plaza Tire & Auto represents our focus on growing with strong operators, trusted local brands, and teams that have earned deep loyalty in their communities,” said Jeff Matt, brand president of Victory Tire & Auto. “Their business has built something special over the past three decades, and we’re excited to carry that legacy forward while continuing to invest in their people and customers.”

    “It was incredibly important for me to find a partner who would take care of our customers and our team the same way we always have,” said Chad Niezgocki, founder of Twin River Tire & Auto. “Victory shares the same values that we built our company on, and I am confident they will preserve the local identity and service standards our customers trust.”

    Victory Tire & Auto is brand of Straightaway Tire & Auto is a leading independent, full-service aftermarket automotive repair and service platform with more than 70 locations across Colorado, Florida, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, and Wisconsin.

  • 15 companies joined VIPAR Heavy Duty during 2025

    15 companies joined VIPAR Heavy Duty during 2025

    The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies brought in 15 new companies representing 62 new locations to the VIPAR Heavy Duty and Power Heavy Duty networks in 2025.

    Together, these businesses range from multigenerational family-owned operations to fast-rising newcomers and, for the first time, international distributors in Central America.

    “These distributors bring an incredible range of experience, capabilities, and regional expertise,” said Chris Baer, president and CEO of VIPAR Heavy Duty. “From established shops with decades of history to innovative businesses breaking new ground, what unites them is a clear vision for the future and the drive to use our network to fuel their success. That shared commitment strengthens our entire organization.”

    New VIPAR Heavy Duty distributors added in 2025 include:

    Truck Depot Corporation
    30 Locations across Guatemala, Honduras, Costa Rica, and El Salvador
    Truck Depot marks a historic milestone as the first Central American distributor to join VIPAR Heavy Duty. Truck Depot’s staff of more than 500 employees operate a mix of sales channels including warehouses, retail stores, service shops, mobile assistance, and e-commerce. They distribute spare parts and accessories for all mass cargo and passenger transportation types and offer large inventories, strong brands, and professional staffing. 

    Universal Truck Service LLC
    Roseville and New Brighton, Minnesota
    Universal Truck Service represents three generations of family leadership, with over 90 employees serving the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro area. The company operates 50 service bays, performing truck and trailer repair, engine and transmission work, mobile repair, tanker maintenance, Cummins warranty repairs, hydraulic hose services, and parts delivery within a 60-mile radius.

    Seagull Diesel Parts Inc.
    Salt Lake City, Utah
    Founded by Jimmy Jacketta in 2010, Seagull Diesel Parts offers transmission and driveline service, engine diagnostics and repair, electrical troubleshooting, welding, radiator and cooling system service, vehicle inspections, frame and alignment work, DPF filter cleaning and replacement, and air conditioning service. 

    Tampa Spring Company
    Tampa, Bradenton, Lakeland, and Ocala, Florida
    Tampa Spring is a family owned and operated business serving customers since 1927. Owned by John Messina, Tampa Spring offers a comprehensive range of truck and heavy duty vehicle repair parts, including a full line of automotive leaf springs, helper springs, air springs, and coil springs. They sell to and service both wholesale and retail customers with 60 employees, four outside sales representatives, 10 delivery vehicles, and 58 service bays. 

    RENOSA (Repuestos Noé, S.A. de C.V.)
    San Salvador, Ilopango, Lourdes Colón, and Santa Ana California, El Salvador
    RENOSA strengthened VIPAR Heavy Duty’s presence in Central America and are a strong addition with numerous supplier relationships. The company was founded in 1990 and is owned by Rigoberto Martínez. He leads more than 100 employees who provide service to the heavy and semi-heavy transport systems in El Salvador, including differential, suspension, transmission, and brake system components as well as filtration systems and engine repairs. 

    Childers Auto & Truck Parts Inc.
    Pikeville and Mt. Sterling, Kentucky
    Founded in 2023 by Ken and Allison Childers, Childers Auto and Truck Parts is a family-owned business that has emerged as a strong presence in the heavy-duty parts and service market. The company supports fleets, owner-operators, municipalities, and off-highway customers with truck and trailer parts, full-service repair, diagnostics, and critical support services. 

    Super Industrial SRL
    Santo Domingo, Bávaro, Haina, and Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic
    Super Industrial SRL (La Casa del Camionero), owned by Carolina Mederos, is a family company that was established in 1975 for the reconstruction of clutches, brakes, radiators and rectification of drums, discs and steering wheels for trucks. In 1986, they opened their first store for the sale of all types of original and replacement parts for trucks, buses, and trailers of North American manufacture. Today, their reconstruction workshop and branch locations provide service and parts for the entire island.

    New Power Heavy Duty Distributors in 2025 include:

    NorthWest Bearing & Industrial Supply Co. Inc.
    Woodward and El Reno, Oklahoma
    NorthWest Bearing & Industrial Supply has been serving the gas compression, agricultural, and farming industries in western Oklahoma since 1991. Owned by Bob and Denise Mitchell, the company is a source for industrial bearings, filters, and hydraulic components. They operate a 15,000-square-foot facility in Woodward and a 2,400-square-foot branch in El Reno. Its team of 20 experienced professionals supports sales, purchasing, warehousing, delivery, accounting, and a fleet of eight delivery vehicles.

    RBR Truck Parts LLC
    Hutchins, Denton, Duncanville, and Fort Worth, Texas
    Founded in 2018, RBR Truck Parts is a heavy-duty aftermarket parts distributor serving owner-operators, fleets, service centers, and municipal accounts in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex. Its Hutchins location is strategically located near Interstate 45, close to major ports, rail yards, and warehouse hubs that support the region’s trucking industry. RBR stocks a broad range of engine, suspension, brake, wheel and tire, filter, fluid, and accessory products.

    Milian Truck Center
    Tampa and Medley, Florida
    Established in 2018 by Osman Lleo, Milian Truck Center is a family-owned distributor with three locations, including two in Tampa, and one of Florida’s key regional transportation hubs and home to the state’s largest shipping port. The company employs 45 people, operates four delivery vehicles, and manages 60,000 square feet of warehouse space, supplying aftermarket truck parts to fleets and owner-operators. 

    Knox Trailers Inc. / DBA KP Services Truck and Trailer Parts
    Knoxville and Crossville, Tennessee
    Founded in 1993 by Steve Fultz and Tommy Jones, Knox Trailers offers heavy-duty truck and trailer parts, repair, and refurbishing services. Operating out of a 32,000-square-foot Knoxville facility and a new 4,800-square-foot warehouse and showroom in Crossville, the company provides 14 service bays, a paint booth, and a dedicated fleet of delivery and service trucks to meet customer needs quickly and reliably.

    West Ridge Heavy Duty Parts LLC
    Logan, Utah
    Established in October of 2023, West Ridge Heavy Duty Parts is a fast-growing, service-driven company founded by Jared Strawn and Russel Guymon. They offer a full range of heavy-duty truck and trailer parts and services, including flywheel resurfacing, custom driveline and hydraulic hose fabrication, U-bolts, and welding services. Their customer base includes a diverse mix of on-highway fleets, owner-operators, agriculture, and mining operations across class 5 through 8 vehicles.  

    Accurate Alignment and Frame Service Inc.
    Appleton, Wisconsin
    Accurate Alignment and Frame Service has been a family-owned business in the northeastern Wisconsin market for the past 70 years. Owned by Mark and Dennis Broehm, they offer heavy-duty truck and trailer parts, shop supplies, tools and equipment, and extensive repair capabilities. With 24 service bays, 34,000 square feet of shop space, and a 14,000 square foot warehouse, the company supports fleets, municipalities, independent service facilities, and owner-operators.

    A & L Systems NexGen LLC
    Redford, Michigan
    A & L Systems NexGen offers a full range of heavy duty truck parts and specializes in the engineering and installation of auto-lubrication systems for both on- and off-road equipment. They service fleets, municipalities, independent service facilities and owner-operators in the Detroit area from their 6,500 square foot warehouse and showroom. Originally established in 1980, the business was purchased in 2024 and is owned by Ron Meehan. 

    Brakes & Wheels Inc./Gordo Bros.
    Odessa, Texas
    Brakes and Wheels distributes a full line of heavy duty parts, operates a brake reline shop, repairs utility trailers and installs toolboxes, brush guards, head-ache racks, and other accessories for the oil field customers they service. They serve independent owner-operators, local fleets, oil field service companies, and city and county service centers out of a 20,000 square foot facility located on 2 acres. The business was started by Connie and Ray Quiroz in 1975 and is owned today by Connie and sons Rene and Gilbert.

  • Peach State Truck Centers’ new dealership has 57 service bays

    Peach State Truck Centers’ new dealership has 57 service bays

    Peach State Truck Centers’ new facility in Villa Rica, Georgia is located at the corner of Edge and Liberty Road off exit 26 on Interstate 20 about 32 miles west of Atlanta. The state-of-the-art campus is situated on 24 acres and spans 140,000 square feet.

    Under the leadership of General Manager Aaron Patterson, the facility features 57 total service bays, including 15 designated for express assessment and 42 interior shop bays to handle a wide range of service needs.

    Customers benefit from the convenience of a drive-thru parts will-call area, as well as a spacious 7,000-square-foot retail and food café. The site also offers 32 overnight paid parking spaces for trucks and trailers.

    The Villa Rica location also provides sales and service offerings, including new and used Freightliner and Western Star trucks, Thomas Built Buses, and Spartan fire and emergency vehicles. The facility is certified to service major brands such as Cummins, Detroit, Mercedes-Benz, Eaton (including hybrid), and Meritor, ensuring top-tier support for a wide variety of commercial vehicles.

    Driver amenities include the Sovereign Lounge, an elevated, all-inclusive VIP driver experience that features:

    • Complimentary snacks and beverages
    • Laundry facilities
    • Private showers
    • Sleeping pods
    • Zero gravity massage chairs
    • Covered outdoor patio
    • Dog park
    • Wi-Fi and business workspace
    • Cable TV
  • Midas acquires Max auto Supply, a franchisee with 111 locations

    Midas acquires Max auto Supply, a franchisee with 111 locations

    Midas International, LLC announced recently it has acquired Max Auto Supply Company, a premier Midas dealer.

    Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

    Founded in 1958, Max Auto is a major Midas franchisee, which operates 111 locations and has over 650 employees across Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Kentucky, and Georgia.

    Max Auto will maintain its headquarters in Toledo, Ohio and continue to operate as a standalone business, leveraging the support and resources of the broader Midas platform. Max Auto will continue to be led by Vice President Randy Lindhurst and the rest of its executive team.

    With this acquisition, Max Auto joins Midas as part of the Mavis Tire family of brands and companies.

    “At Midas, our legacy is built on a steadfast commitment to service, quality, and reliability, which are values that have made us a trusted name in communities nationwide,” said Leonard Valentino, Jr., president of Midas International, LLC. “These principles align perfectly with the culture and operational excellence of Max Auto. We are confident Max Auto will continue to be a best-in-class dealer within the Midas family, driving forward our shared tradition of excellence.”

    Midas has 2,000 franchised and licensed Midas locations in nearly 20 countries, including some 1,200 across the United States and Canada.

    Mavis owns and operates numerous auto service center brands, including Mavis Discount Tire, Mavis Tires & Brakes, Midas, Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers, Brakes Plus, Tire Kingdom, NTB (National Tire & Battery), Town Fair Tire and Tuffy.