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Tag: Newsletter 4th Article

  • AAA honors Best in Repair and Service Providers of Excellence Winners

    AAA honors Best in Repair and Service Providers of Excellence Winners

    AAA recently announced the winners of its Service Providers of Excellence and the Best in Auto Repair awards for 2025.

    These awards recognize the top AAA Service Providers and AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities across the country. A panel of AAA experts reviewed nominations for both awards.

    These outstanding partners have consistently achieved high member satisfaction, provided excellent service, and made significant contributions to their communities, according to a statement from AAA.

    Service Providers of Excellence 
    Gold Winners 
    Falcon Towing Gardena, California 
    Angelo’s Towing & Recovery Kirby, Texas  
    Excell Road Service Wheeling, Illinois
    Riverside Auto & Towing Chauncey, Ohio  
    Silver Winners  
    Golden Bear Towing, Inc. Chino, CA 
    Hooked On Towing Ontario, California  
    Bayside Roadside Services Los Angeles, California  
    RBS Towing Ramona, California   
    Bronze Winners  
    DeFalco’s Instant Towing, Inc. Chatham, New Jersey  
    I-10 Towing and Recovery  Montclair, California   
    C&D Towing  El Cajon, Connecticut   
    Montana City Towing Montana City, Montana

    Best in Auto Repair 

    Gold Winners 
    Faulkner Subaru Harrisburg Harrisburg, Pennsylvania   
    DeFalco’s Automotive & TowingSurfside Beach, South Carolina  
    Roy Foster’s Automotive Reno, Nevada  
    Cloverdale Automotive & TiresCloverdale, California
    Silver Winners  
    Hansen Motor Company Brigham City, Utah  
    DeBoer’s Auto North Hamburg, New Jersey
    Xpertech Auto Repair  Englewood, Florida  
    Fortier’s Auto Sales & ServiceFall River, Massachusetts 
    Bronze Winners  
    Nick Chevrolet Inc.Tarentum, Pennsylvania
    Leon’s Car Care Center Eureka, California  
    Stroup’s Garage Inc Yeager Town, Pennsylvania 
    Brown’s Tire, Towing, and Auto Care Center, Inc. Shepherdstown, West Virginia  
  • TN college changes to off-road diesel; becomes Kubota TECH campus

    TN college changes to off-road diesel; becomes Kubota TECH campus

    The Tennessee College of Applied Technology will transition its Diesel Powered Equipment Technology program to Off-Road Diesel Technology and become an official Kubota TECH campus to meet the needs of the geographical populations it serves at its Dickson campus.

    The Off-Road Diesel Technology (ODT) program will focus on tractors, equipment, and even diesel-powered lawn mowers. Additionally, students enrolled in the ODT program will have the opportunity to gain Kubota TECH certifications before graduating with their diplomas, making them more marketable upon graduation.

    Those additional Kubota TECH certifications through NC3 include Product Delivery Inspection (PDI) and Assembly; Maintenance Procedures; Engines; Electrical; Preventative Maintenance Inspection; Hydraulics; and Brakes, Steering, Suspension (BSS).

    TCAT Dickson President Laura Travis is pleased about the new offering at the main campus.

    “We are thrilled to bring the Off-Road Diesel Technology program to our community,” Travis said. “The program gives students the chance to gain real-world skills and earn industry credentials that lead to good careers. It’s an exciting opportunity to help individuals build strong futures while meeting the growing demand for skilled technicians.”

    As an official Kubota TECH campus, Kubota delivered three new pieces of equipment to TCAT Dickson including a tractor, side-by-side, and lawn mower for students to use as learning tools. Later this year the campus should receive a skid steer and could potentially receive a mini excavator for additional training opportunities. Kubota will continue to replace those pieces of equipment, so students are always exposed to the newest technology.

    Recent graduates of the diesel program praised the opportunity to work on Kubota equipment and earn certifications from the company.

    Owen White, a recent graduate of the diesel program said, “I liked having the Kubota equipment here to work on. It’s good to have something to look at while you are learning about it.”

    “The Kubota TECH part is great. They have good hydraulic knowledge. There is a lot of hydraulics on this equipment. Everything is starting to run off HST (Hydro Static Transmission). You can take this knowledge and apply it to other areas,” recent graduate Jathan Hicks said.

    White and Hicks were two of a group of five students to be the firsts to complete Kubota TECH certifications on TCAT Dickson’s campus.

    “Having these extra certifications from Kubota TECH gives these students more ammunition and more opportunities in the workforce,” Diesel Instructor Tommy Yarbrough said.

    Students who earn the Kubota TECH certifications will have the opportunity to complete Kubota Universities Registered Level training program which ultimately introduces them to the Kubota Advanced and Master Level Technician Pathway.

    That benefit for graduates of the program will also greatly impact Kubota dealerships who will have access to contact and hire individuals from the database who are trained and ready to meet their workforce needs from day one without having to spend extra time completing on-the-job training.

    “Our programs are nimble to the community needs,” Dr. Levi Mayer, Vice President of Academics and Compliance at TCAT Dickson said. “We see a greater need for Off-Road Diesel Technology at our Dickson campus. Our Clarksville campus will continue to maintain the Diesel Powered Equipment Technology program,” Mayer added. The primary focus of the Clarksville program will continue to be large commercial semi-trucks, large recreational vehicles, and specialty commercial vehicles like waste disposal and fire trucks.

    For additional information on the new Off-Road Diesel Technology and Kubota TECH certifications available at the main campus in Dickson, or existing Diesel Powered Equipment Technology program offered at the Clarksville location, visit tcatdickson.edu.

  • Belden’s opens ninth texas location in San Antonio; acquires iowa shop

    Belden’s opens ninth texas location in San Antonio; acquires iowa shop

    GreatWater360 Auto Care recently announced the opening of its newest Belden’s Automotive & Tires location in San Antonio, Texas.

    The company said this milestone marks a strategic expansion in the company’s presence across Texas and brings the total number of Belden’s locations to nine.

    GreatWater said its growth traditionally involves investing in existing locations and teams, but this new facility highlights GreatWater’s ability to create successful growth through different paths with multiple ground-up locations opened in SanAntonio under the Belden’s name.

    “This is a slightly different approach for us, but we are always open to building a site in the right market, under the right brand,” said Jim Dykstra, CEO at GreatWater 360 Auto Care. “While we typically invest in existing high-performing shops with teams and clientele in place, we also know how to launch a new facility with the same success. That confidence comes from the market opportunity, the team, and the reputation a brand like Belden’s has in their community.”

    Belden’s Automotive & Tires has been a respected name in the San Antonio area for over 45 years, known for customer-centric service, technical expertise, and a team-first culture. The Potranco location will carry forward those values while offering customers a state-of-the-art facility, advanced diagnostics, and the same high-quality service delivered by certified technicians, according to the company.

    “The Potranco team may be in a brand-new building, but that team has long been a part of the Belden’s family—they’re people who care deeply about their work, their customers, and their community. The shop is set up for success.” said Dykstra.

    In addition, GreatWater 360 Auto Care recently acquired Cars, Trucks & Vans, a full-service shop in Davenport, Iowa. This acquisition strengthens GreatWater’s presence in the Iowa market and underscores its commitment to supporting high-integrity, locally rooted repair businesses.

    A local staple in the community for over 25 years, Cars, Trucks & Vans has served Davenport drivers with dependable repair, maintenance, and diagnostic services. Known for its straightforward approach, friendly service and strong community focus, the shop will continue operating under its well-established name, with its existing team in place—now supported by the resources and training that come with joining the GreatWater network.

    This acquisition marks GreatWater’s fourth location in Iowa and continued growth across eight states. With every new location, the company said it reinforces its unique approach: invest in existing shops that customers know and trust while equipping them with upgraded tools, training, and operational support.

  • California car dealers turn to apprenticeships for technicians

    California car dealers turn to apprenticeships for technicians

    California’s new car dealers are working with an apprenticeship organization to recruit and develop new automotive service technicians.

    The California New Car Dealers Association (CNCDA) Foundation is partnering with Automotive Apprenticeship Group (AAG) to provide a path to instruction and training to potential techs, then matching them with California auto dealerships for employment. Though the apprenticeships are for anyone with an interest, they have been especially attractive to people 18 to 30 years old for whom college was not an option or a preference, according to a statement from the two organizations.

    The apprenticeship available through the CNCDA Foundation is a two-year program where apprentices accepted into the program are compensated at a competitive wage and with no out-of-pocket expenses. They learn and develop skills through on-the-job training at local dealerships, discovery-based e-learning, and hands-on technical training and practice.

    Upon completion of the program, the apprentices earn a national certification from the U.S. Department of Labor. Access to all necessary tools and a computer are provided to all apprentices. Each apprentice is supported by a dedicated AAG career manager who provides guidance and support during their apprenticeship.

    A recent CNCDA survey indicates there is a statewide shortage of about 5,000 technicians among California dealerships. The technician shortage is the result of an aging workforce with many technicians retiring, and a lack of young people entering the field – often due to a misperception that technicians earn low wages and have limited opportunity for advancement. Experienced technicians, according to the survey, earn $100,000 to more than $200,000 annually once fully certified.

    For participating auto dealerships, the solution is completely turnkey – AAG manages apprentice recruitment, conducting of candidate interviews, orientation, pre-apprenticeship training, payroll and compensation, insurance, mentoring and ongoing career coaching, as well as the education and training for each apprentice.

    “For a young adult or anyone who is career-minded, being an auto technician is a career that can support a person for the rest of their life,” said Kim McPhaul, president of the Foundation. “Our apprenticeship program will connect career-minded people – such as recent high school graduates or those currently working in unrewarding jobs – with opportunity to work in a field where motivated, skilled people are sorely needed. The key to addressing the technician shortage is to take a wholistic approach to the challenges of identifying, vetting, teaching, hiring, and retaining good, long-term, committed career technicians.”

    While just ramping up in California, several apprentices have already enrolled in the program and are paired with dealerships. 

    Anyone interested in exploring the apprentice program can find out more here.

  • Mavis Tire Express acquires midas

    Mavis Tire Express acquires midas

    Mavis Tire Express Services Corp., a leading provider of automotive repair and maintenance services and one of the largest independent tire and service providers in North America, recently announced it has completed the purchase of Midas from TBC Corporation. 

    Financial terms of the transaction are not being disclosed.

    With this acquisition, Mavis expands its retail network to more than 3,500 locations across the United States and Canada, including nearly 1,300 franchised locations. Midas will continue to operate as a standalone brand under the Mavis platform and maintain its headquarters in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

    This transaction strengthens Mavis’s position as a provider of automotive repair and maintenance services, enabling the company to expand its presence within the dynamic North American automotive service repair industry, according to a statement from the company. 

    “We are excited to officially welcome Midas to the Mavis family,” said David Sorbaro, co-chief executive officer, Mavis Tire Express Services Corp. “This transaction reflects our ongoing commitment to expanding our portfolio of respected brands and establishing our presence in compelling new markets. We’re excited to partner with Midas’s talented team and franchisees to build on their legacy of exceptional service and to drive the next chapter of growth together.”

    Mavis Tire Express Services Corp., based in White Plains, New York, offers a menu of repair and maintenance services including brakes, alignments, suspension, shocks, and exhaust. Mavis, which was founded in 1972 by Marion and Victor Sorbaro and has roots dating back to 1949.

  • Still time to register for ASE conference

    Still time to register for ASE conference

    There is still time to register for the upcoming ASE Instructor Training Conference. 

    The national training event is presented by the ASE  Education Foundation and will be held July 21-24 in St. Louis.

    The 15th Annual ASE Instructor Training Conference is the largest of its kind, hosting hundreds of high school and college instructors from auto, truck and collision repair programs nationwide and offering more than 20 hours of technical update training with separate tracks for auto, medium/heavy truck and collision repair instructors.

    This year’s event will also feature a keynote address by ASE president and CEO Dave Johnson, a sponsor expo and a special networking event at the Anheuser-Busch brewery sponsored by WyoTech.

    Hotel rooms are filling up, and instructors whose funds are not available until July are urged to register now and select “pay later” at checkout. Those needing to submit a written request can use a sample justification letter located on the ASE Education Foundation website.

  • New Mexico college building new Transportation Technology Center

    New Mexico college building new Transportation Technology Center

    Central New Mexico Community College broke ground recently on a new Transportation Technology Center that’s being constructed on the campus of RioTECH, the new Career Technical Education high school that opened in April. 

    CNM and Rio Rancho Public Schools have formed a unique partnership to provide high school students with convenient access to CNM’s Career Technical Education (CTE) and skilled trades programs through RioTECH that can lead directly to in-demand careers in the local economy. 

    The new Transportation Technology Facility is scheduled to open in the fall of 2026, when CNM will broaden the trades offerings at RioTECH by moving its Automotive Technology and Electric Vehicle Technology programs to the campus, as well as some introductory courses from the Diesel Equipment Technology program.  

    Some of the features of the new, 43,800-square-foot Transportation Technology Center will include: 

    •   Labs that are designed to emulate professional repair shops, providing students with the latest tools and technology they need to succeed in the workplace when they graduate
    • Each lab has adjacent classrooms and faculty offices with video connectivity to the labs to enhance teaching and maintain safety
    • Electric Vehicle Lab with tool room and battery storage.
    • Automotive Electric Systems lab
    • Secure exterior fleet storage to accommodate 85 vehicles
    • Community outreach and vehicle showcase space at main entrance to celebrate the ever-changing career opportunities in the Transportation Technology trades, as well as a reception area and conference room
    • Student Commons area with access to outdoor courtyard for students to rest or study. 

    “CNM is thrilled to be partnering with Rio Rancho Public Schools as we continue the evolution of RioTECH by breaking ground on the new Transportation Technology Center,” said CNM President Tracy Hartzler. “This is another momentous step forward in broadening opportunities for high school students while addressing the workforce needs of our local economy. The state-of-the-art labs in this facility will provide students with engaging, hands-on, real-world learning experiences, as well as internship opportunities with local employers, that lead to CNM credentials and quality career opportunities in our economy.” 

    “Today’s groundbreaking marks a significant milestone in Rio Rancho Public Schools’ vision for RioTECH, where students will gain real-world skills in cutting-edge industries,” said RRPS Superintendent Virginia Cleveland. “The new automotive facility represents more than just bricks and mortar—it’s a gateway to opportunity. Thanks to our valued partnership with CNM, our students will have access to advanced training and dual credit pathways that prepare them for high-demand careers. Together, we’re building a future where education and workforce development go hand in hand.” 

    The grand opening for the first building on the RioTECH campus was celebrated in April. In August, RRPS students will begin taking CNM classes and learning in modern labs that simulate real-world workplaces for welding, carpentry, plumbing, HVAC, electrical trades, computer science, and digital media. 

    Unlike traditional CTE and trades programs that often require travel for high school students, RioTECH students will complete all coursework at the new school, allowing for seamless integration of technical training and core academics. 

    CNM’s dual credit classes, which are tuition-free, count for both college and high school credit. Students will be able to graduate from high school with industry-recognized credentials, certificates or even associate degrees – giving them clear pathways to quality careers right after high school, or the ability to continue their college education with credits in hand. CNM’s skilled trades and CTE programs are continually redesigned to provide students with the most current and relevant skills needed by employers. 

    Adult learners also have access to courses and programs at RioTECH.

     CNM is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year. Automotive Repair was one of a few programs that was offered when CNM opened as Albuquerque Technical Vocational Institute (TVI) in July 1965. The new Transportation Center represents CNM’s commitment to its CTE and trades roots, and its commitment to the future of skilled trades education in the years ahead. 

    During the groundbreaking ceremony, speakers included CNM President Tracy Hartzler, RRPS Superintendent Sue Cleveland, CNM Governing Board Chair Tom Swisstack, CNM Electric Vehicle program graduate Gael Juarez, and RioTECH student Lluvia Torres, who just completed the first year of CNM’s Automotive Technology program.  

  • ARI-HETRA updates its heavy-duty tire changers

    ARI-HETRA updates its heavy-duty tire changers

    ARI-HETRA, a provider of heavy-duty vehicle maintenance solutions, recently announced the launch of its updated heavy-duty tire changers, engineered for maximum strength, safety, and ease of use.

    With options for everything from over-the-road truck tires to agricultural, and construction applications, these tire changers reduce turnaround time and technician fatigue, according to a statement from the company.

    The updated line of heavy-duty tire changers from the Sharonville, Ohio company includes:

    • WS-22670 – Designed for large forestry and earth-moving equipment, this powerhouse handles tires up to 118 inches tall and 71 inches wide, with a fully hydraulic system delivering 10,100 lbf of torque for the most demanding jobs.
    • WS-25TC50 – A fully automatic tire changer with a wireless remote control, capable of handling tires up to 91 inches in diameter and 52 inches wide, ideal for military, agricultural, transit, and heavy-duty fleet maintenance.
    • WS-25TC45 – Featuring a manual tool arm and hardwired remote, this tire changer offers versatility for truck, bus, and OTR tires, combining efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
    • WS-25TC30 – A compact model perfect for medium to large fleets, handling truck, bus, and super single tires while ensuring a safe and streamlined tire-changing process.

    “With the launch of these heavy-duty tire changers, we’re giving fleet maintenance teams the tools they need to increase efficiency, reduce downtime, and improve workplace safety,” said Bill Gibson, VP Business Development at ARI-HETRA. “From municipal fleets to military applications, these machines are built to handle the toughest jobs with ease.”

  • John Deere acquires remote imaging company

    John Deere acquires remote imaging company

    John Deere announced recently the acquisition of Sentera, a provider of remote imagery solutions for agriculture headquartered in St. Paul, Minnesota.

    Terms of the deal were not announced.

    According to a statement from John Deere, this acquisition will advance the capabilities of the company’s existing technology offerings, providing farmers and ag service providers with a more comprehensive set of tools to generate and use data to make decisions that improve farm profitability, efficiency, and sustainability.

    “We’re excited to add Sentera’s talented team to our organization and integrate their advanced solutions into the suite of John Deere tools that help farmers do more with less,” said Chris Winkler, director of Digital Software and Solutions at John Deere. “Combining Sentera’s imagery capabilities with the John Deere Operations Center will enable farmers and trusted advisors to seamlessly gather and integrate agronomic data, understand real-time conditions, and turn data into insights that drive decisions in the field throughout the growing season.”

    Sentera’s cameras are compatible with most major drone platforms and enable farmers and crop scouts to quickly and efficiently capture high-resolution data at scale, said the statement from John Deere. Their capabilities and FieldAgent software tools help farmers and agronomists assess plant-level health, identify stressors, and take action. 

    In addition, SMARTSCRIPT Weeds, a customized herbicide prescription, can be delivered to sprayers with individual nozzle control.

    Drones equipped with Sentera technology fly over fields at high speeds and generate high-resolution images. These images are processed with Sentera’s FieldAgent application to identify the exact location of specific weeds and generate a weed map. This map becomes a targeted prescription for how much product a farmer needs to load into their sprayer, helping minimize waste. Once the prescription is generated, it can be wirelessly sent to compatible equipment through the John Deere Operations Center.

    Weed maps are just one example of actionable data that is enabled with Sentera scouting technology. The same process can be used in a field to assess crop stand uniformity, disease pressure, and pests. Integrating Sentera also supports John Deere’s approach to meeting farmers where they are on the technology adoption journey. It offers new precision capabilities to a broad range of customers while also complementing more advanced precision ag technologies, including See & Spray.

    Sentera will continue to supply cameras directly to drone manufacturers for integration into their products, as well as sell to farmers, agronomists, ag retailers, and other users. The John Deere Operations Center will continue to be open for other drone imagery providers for integration, as well, ensuring customers and their trusted advisors continue to have choices on the solutions that work best for their operation.