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Author: Professional Technician Staff

  • 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.

  • Registration open for work truck week March 10-13

    Registration open for work truck week March 10-13

    Work Truck Week 2026 combines a packed exhibit hall with three days of commercial vehicle industry training and education.

    Work Truck Week 2026 runs March 10–13, 2026, at Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis. It encompasses The Work Truck Show, Green Truck Summit, NTEA Annual Meeting with keynote speakers, Work Truck Week Ride & Drive, educational program and more. Green Truck Summit is March 10, educational sessions run March 10–12, and Work Truck Show exhibits are open March 11–13.

    You can register at worktruckweek.com.

    The 2026 Work Truck Week educational program equips companies with strategies to strengthen operations and prepare for what’s ahead. A mix of in-depth special sessions and shorter breakouts are divided into eight tracks:

    • Advanced Fuels & Vehicle Technology
    • Chassis Update
    • Dealership Training
    • Fleet Management
    • Government Regulations & Advocacy
    • Market Data & Industry Trends
    • Vehicle Design & Certification
    • Workforce Development.

    “Whether you’re a fleet operator, transportation manager, truck dealer, upfitter or distributor, Work Truck Week can help you grow professionally, stay on top of industry trends and improve your operation,” said Jennifer Mitchell, NTEA senior director of content development. “In an industry that is constantly evolving, the Work Truck Week educational program offers an unmatched opportunity to learn from the best and brightest about the topics that matter to your success.”

    Work Truck Week educational sessions are eligible for continuing education units through NTEA’s accreditation by International Accreditors for Continuing Education and Training. Learn more at ntea.com/iacet.

    For the full Work Truck Week 2026 educational program schedule, session descriptions, speaker bios and more, visit worktruckweek.com/education.

    Contact NTEA (info@ntea.com or 248-489-7090) with questions.

  • New auto service tech program added at Maryland community college

    New auto service tech program added at Maryland community college

    The Workforce Solutions and Continuing Education Division at Hagerstown Community College is offering a new Automotive Service Technician program starting in January, and applications are open.

    The first course in the four-course program will be offered Jan. 26 to March 9, from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., on Monday and Wednesdays. The program will take place at the new D.M. Bowman Family Workforce Training Center on Northern Avenue in Hagerstown, which opened in June.

    The Maryland college said the Automotive Service Technician program provides students with the entry-level skills required to start a career in automotive repair and maintenance. Beginning in January and concluding near the end of the summer, the 200-hour program is delivered through an intensive, hands-on lab approach, allowing students to concentrate on practical skills, with supplemental online curriculum.

    Students who complete this program will be eligible to sit for a variety of Automotive Service Excellence exams.

    “We are excited to launch the auto tech program, which will provide another opportunity for students searching for a career pathway, and will assist local dealerships in addressing staffing challenges,” said Jack Drooger, senior program manager for Workforce Training at HCC.

    Limited scholarships are available. To find more information on the program and register, call 240-500-2236 or visit www.hagerstowncc.edu/godrive.

  • Atlanta Tech breaks ground on new transportation & logistics facility

    Atlanta Tech breaks ground on new transportation & logistics facility

    Atlanta Technical College (ATC) recently broke ground on its Center for Transportation and Logistics (CTL), which the college calledc a transformative facility designed to meet the growing workforce demands of Georgia’s transportation and logistics industry.

    The ceremony took place on Dec. 12 and featured Dr. Victoria Seals, President of Atlanta Technical College; Greg Dozier, Commissioner of the Technical College System of Georgia; and Robb Pitts, chairman of the Fulton County Board of Commissioners.

    The CTL is located on 25 acres that was donated by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners. The development includes a one-acre CDL testing course, the first of its kind in Metro Atlanta that is accessible to the public and serving as the only CDL testing site within the city.

    The new center will increase enrollment capacity fivefold, introduce Class B box truck driver training, and offer expanded day and evening class options. Programs will include these:

    • Commercial Truck Driving
    • Diesel Mechanics
    • Supply Chain Management
    • Warehousing
    • Logistics Operations
    • Procurement
  • Kentucky tech college’s diesel program receives AED accreditation renewal

    Kentucky tech college’s diesel program receives AED accreditation renewal

    Elizabethtown Community and Technical College’s diesel technology program has maintained AED Foundation Accreditation for its construction equipment repair and agriculture equipment repair pathways.

    First earning the accreditation five years ago, the program continues to meet the rigorous industry-specific national standards and fully prepare students to succeed in high-demand equipment service careers, according to a statem,ent from the college based in Elizabethtown, Kentucky.

    “We are pleased that Elizabethtown Community and Technical College continues to demonstrate its commitment to academic excellence and continuous improvement through the process of accreditation,” said AED Foundation President Brian McGuire. “Your accreditation signifies to equipment industry stakeholders that your school continues to meet rigorous industry-specific national equipment technical standards. It further signifies to current and prospective students that your program provides the best in diesel-equipment technical education as defined by the industry it serves.”

    The AEDF is the non-profit foundation for the heavy equipment industry and is the sister organization to Associated Equipment Distributors, the international trade association for equipment distributors, manufacturers, and service providers. 

    Jay Rodes, a member of the program’s advisory board and president of Wilson Equipment Company, said reaccreditation speaks directly to the quality and consistency of ECTC’s diesel technology program.

    “Your work developing the next generation of diesel technicians makes a real difference, not just for our industry, but for every employer who depends on skilled, reliable people coming out of your school. We see the impact firsthand, and we appreciate the effort, standards and pride … instructors put into the program,” Rodes said.

    To date, the AEDF has accredited 103 college programs. Four of those programs are in Kentucky, with two at ECTC and two at Ashland Community and Technical College.

    “Our entire faculty is thankful for the support of the AED Foundation and our employer partners, which helps us to continuously improve our program and make a greater impact for students,” said ECTC Diesel Technology Program Coordinator Joe Valora. “Agriculture and construction equipment repair are incredible industries, and we are very proud that our graduates earn good wages in careers they truly enjoy.”

    Students completing an accredited program earn a certificate and the title of AEDF Certified Technician, signaling that they have met the industry’s highest training expectations.

    To learn more about ECTC’s diesel technology program, visit ectc.us/diesel or call 270-769-2371.

    Enrollment is now underway for classes that begin Jan. 12.

  • Florida technician wins Rush Enterprises 20th anniversary Skills Rodeo

    Florida technician wins Rush Enterprises 20th anniversary Skills Rodeo

    Dom McConnell, a Rush Truck Centers – Orlando South technician, was named the all-around Grand Champion at the 20th anniversary Rush Enterprises Tech Skills Rodeo at the Gaylord Opryland in Nashville.

    The 26-year-old McConnell also won the Medium-Duty, Peterbilt, and Medium-Duty Grand Championship during the competition Tuesday, Dec. 16. It was his third trip to the event.

    Over 2,700 technicians tested to qualify, and more than 200 made it to the rodeo. But after three days of written testing and hands-on challenges involving medium- and heavy-duty vehicles Rush Enterprises named the top performers.

    Rush Enterprises gave away nearly $300,000 in cash and prizes to Rodeo participants.

    All-Around Rodeo Champion
    • Dom McConnell, Rush Truck Centers – Orlando South
    Grand Champions

    Top overall performers in each major discipline.

    • Truck Sales Grand Champion: Steven Nace, Rush Truck Centers – Smyrna
    • Aftermarket Sales Grand Champion: Ryan Summers, Rush Truck Centers – Denver
    • Parts Grand Champion: Eric Valenzuela, Rush Truck Centers – Joliet
    • Medium-Duty Service Grand Champion: Dom McConnell, Rush Truck Centers – Orlando South
    • Heavy-Duty Service Grand Champion: Nat Dixon, Rush Truck Centers – Joplin
    Reserve Champions
    • Aftermarket Sales Reserve Champion: Francisco Ferrara, Rush Truck Centers – Greeley
    • Parts Reserve Champion: Aaron Van Straten, Rush Truck Centers – Houston Northwest
    • Medium-Duty Service Reserve Champion: Joe Behrend, Rush Truck Centers – Idaho Falls
    • Heavy-Duty Service Reserve Champion: Paul Crawford, Rush Truck Centers – Haines City
    Parts Division Winners
    • Ford Parts: Jeff Cerullo, Rush Truck Centers – Chicago Light- and Medium-Duty
    • Hino Parts: Aaron Van Straten, Rush Truck Centers – Houston Northwest
    • Isuzu Parts: John O’Brien, Rush Truck Centers – Orlando South
    • International Parts: Eric Valenzuela, Rush Truck Centers – Joliet
    • PACCAR Parts: Jesus Bernardo Marquez, Rush Truck Centers – Yuma
    Leasing Division
    • Leasing Champion: Riley Doyle, Rush Truck Leasing – Houston Northwest
    Rising Star Division
    • Rising Star Champion: Dan Paquette, Rush Truck Centres of Canada – Sudbury
    Body Divisions
    • Body Repair Champion: Larry Edwards, Rush Truck Centers – Richmond
    • Body Paint Champion: Daniel Garcia Gonzalez, Rush Truck Centers – Salt Lake City
    Medium-Duty Service Division Winners

    These competitors worked on platforms from Ford, Hino, Isuzu, International, Allison-equipped trucks, and Peterbilt medium-duty models.

    • Allison: Charlie Marine, Rush Truck Centers – San Antonio
    • Bus: Cody Lucas, Rush Truck Centers – Cleveland
    • Ford: Frank Uriostegui-Roman, Rush Truck Centers – Las Vegas
    • Hino: Thomas Powell, Rush Truck Centers – Austin
    • Isuzu: JR Hartz, Rush Truck Centers – Denver
    • International: Chris Purcell, Rush Truck Centers – Atlanta
    • Peterbilt Medium-Duty: Dom McConnell, Rush Truck Centers – Orlando South
    Heavy-Duty Service Division Winners

    These competitors worked across Cummins, International, PACCAR MX, Eaton, and alternative-fuels platforms.

    • Alternative Fuels: Walter Hobbs, Rush Truck Centers – Fort Worth
    • Vocational: Travis Webster, Rush Truck Centers – Houston
    • Cummins: Wesley Appleton, Rush Truck Centers – Odessa
    • Eaton: Matt Biggs, Rush Truck Centers – Nashville
    • International Engine: Jon Steckman, Rush Truck Centers – Columbus, OH
    • PACCAR MX: Brandon Winebark, Rush Truck Centers – Tyler
    Truck Sales Division Winners
    • Medium-Duty Sales — Ford / Hino / Isuzu: Steven Nace, Rush Truck Centers – Smyrna
    • Medium-Duty Sales — Peterbilt & International: Andrew Hirsch, Rush Truck Centers – Charlotte
    • Heavy-Duty Sales — Peterbilt & International: Jeff Spanley, Rush Truck Centers – San Antonio

  • ASE provides 2 levels of certification for Electric vehicles

    ASE provides 2 levels of certification for Electric vehicles

    As technology in the automotive industry continues to evolve, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence said it understands the need to address the critical skills gaps introduced by electric vehicles, which have become mainstream. ASE’ said its Electric Vehicle Technician/Shop Personnel Electrical Safety Certification focuses on electric vehicle safety and service competency, designed to meet shops at different stages of EV readiness.

    ASE said there are two paths forward:

    • Level One Certification — the xEV Electrical Safety Awareness Certification targets anyone who may encounter an EV in the workplace, from service advisors to parts counter staff. This entry-level credential establishes baseline high-voltage safety awareness without requiring advanced technical training.
    • Level Two Certification — the xEV Technician Electrical Safety Certification is geared toward service technicians and specialists with formal high-voltage electrical training. These professionals demonstrate competency in high-voltage system diagnosis, battery evaluation, safe de-energization procedures, and accident assessment—critical skills as shops handle more EVs.

    ASE developed the certifications to address: risks associated with high-voltage work, proper protective equipment, emergency response protocols, and the specific hazards posed by damaged EV battery systems.

    Both certification exams are now available through ASE’s testing platform

    For independent shops looking to upskill staff, ASE’s program offers a structured pathway to ensure technicians and shop personnel meet the safety standards required for modern EV service. Visit ase.com/ev to learn more about the certification program, download information, or register for the test. 

  • SEMA supports bill that allows aftermarket businesses to calibrate advanced driver assistance systems

    SEMA supports bill that allows aftermarket businesses to calibrate advanced driver assistance systems

    The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) is praising the U.S. House of Representatives introduction of the ADAS Functionality & Integrity Act by Rep. Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.) and cosponsored by Rep. Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.), Rep. Jay Obernolte (R-Calif.), and Rep. Norma Torres (D-Calif.).

    SEMA said it worked closely with lawmakers from both parties to secure bipartisan support for the legislation, which ensures that aftermarket businesses have the information needed to properly calibrate advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) after vehicles are modified. SEMA said this legislation is critical to being able to safely make common modifications, including installing bike racks, wrapping a vehicle, installing larger wheels and tires, or installing a winch or aftermarket bumpers, without compromising the functionality of ADAS.

    SEMA said the bill is timely, because a forthcoming federal mandate that new, model year 2029 vehicles feature automatic emergency braking, bringing important safety systems to all new vehicles sold in the U.S.

    The ADAS Functionality & Integrity Act would require the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to establish ADAS guidelines to create modification ranges and tolerances for new vehicles starting in model year 2028. The bill also requires NHTSA to create guidelines that establish ADAS test procedures that aftermarket businesses can properly test and validate that the vehicle systems have been properly calibrated.

    “SEMA thanks Rep. Harshbarger for her leadership and Reps. Vasquez, Obernolte, and Torres for their strong support for ensuring vehicles with ADAS can be modified without compromising the integrity of these important safety systems, said Jim Moore, SEMA vice president of OEM and Product Development. “The introduction of the ADAS Functionality & Integrity Act is a landmark moment for anyone who owns, repairs, or modifies a vehicle.

    “Americans deserve confidence that those critical systems will work as intended for the entire life of their vehicle, even after repairs or customization. Currently, the industry lacks clear standards governing ADAS calibration, and aftermarket businesses and vehicle owners need access to the necessary calibration information and procedures needed to keep modern safety features functioning. This bill marks a critical step forward in the name of vehicle safety and is a major step forward in protecting the American people’s right to modify the vehicles they own.”

  • True North expands in the Southeast with 2 new partnerships

    True North expands in the Southeast with 2 new partnerships

    True North Fleet Services , a group of fleet maintenance and repair providers, recently announced the expansion of its platform through two new partnerships. They include:

    • Georgia-based operators Elite Diesel, a diesel truck repair operator based in Augusta, Georgia
    • Myles Truck Repair, a heavy-duty truck repair services operator serving the greater Atlanta region

    With these new partnerships, True North enters the Southeast, broadening its service offerings to include towing expertise and heavy-duty engine repair.

    Elite Diesel, which has a second facility in Savannah, specializes in heavy-duty truck repairs, including welding and fabrication, heavy equipment and general diesel maintenance.

    Myles Truck Repair offers dealership-level truck repair services to customers across Atlanta from its shops in Lawrenceville, Auburn, Winder and Fayetteville. Myles delivers a comprehensive suite of maintenance solutions, heavy-duty collision repair and 24/7 roadside towing assistance within a 50-mile radius of its facilities.

    “As we continue to expand True North, we’re excited to welcome the Elite and Myles teams to the platform,” said Gary Price, chief executive officer of True North Fleet Services. “These partnerships enhance our ability to deliver comprehensive, end-to-end fleet solutions to a broader range of customers, building out our mobile service and heavy-duty engine repair capabilities and spreading our footprint into the highly fragmented Southeast U.S. market. Both Elite and Myles have earned reputations across Georgia for safety, reliability and a relentless commitment to customer satisfaction, making them a perfect fit for what we’re building at True North. By combining our strengths, we’re delivering even greater value to Elite and Myles’ customers.

    Todd Myles, founder of Myles Truck Repair, said, “For the past 13 years, we’ve delivered best-in-class truck repair services to customers across Atlanta, playing a vital role in keeping our city’s roadways safe. This partnership is a testament to the exceptional work of our talented technicians, whose skill and commitment to providing reliable, high-quality service to our customers has been the cornerstone of our success. With True North’s backing, we’ll expand our service offerings and reach new end markets, unlocking further value for our customers and employees, while preserving our brand identity.”

    “True North shares our vision and deeply values what we’ve built,” added Jimmy Knight, Founder of Elite Diesel. “Their team’s respect for our culture and shared commitment to quality, team collaboration and customer satisfaction makes them the ideal partner as we enter this next chapter of growth. With access to True North’s advanced service technology, capital support, data systems and back-office infrastructure, we’ll deepen our reach across the Southeast, invest further in our people and continue delivering strong customer ROI.”

    True North’s partnerships with Elite Diesel and Myles follows its previously announced partnerships with Billy Bob’s Repair & Tire, a San Antonio, Texas-based full-service repair operator, and PennFleet, a fleet services operator headquartered in Philadelphia.