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“There is a monumental task facing our industry and that is replacing the ‘baby boomer’ generation. I see it in our office, in our membership and in the industry as a whole,” said Mike Lambert, president of the Network. “Finding skilled workers to fill the technician shortage can seem overwhelming, and when you add in the parts counter, the people who answer phones, warehouse personnel, IT staff, marketing and sales, and so on, it can seem impossible.
“We decided to take one small step and contribute to the University of the Aftermarket Foundation to help make education more available. We want to support the foundation’s efforts to get the word out that our industry has good jobs available, and not just those turning a wrench, but careers in all aspects of the business for those who are willing to learn.”
The Network will take an active role on the University of the Aftermarket Foundation Board of Trustees. David G. Segal, president of New Hampshire-based Automotive Supply Associates (ASA) will serve as the Network’s representative on the board. Segal, who helped spearhead the Network’s donation, is a former chairman of the Automotive Wholesale Distributors Association (AWDA).
“We want to thank Mike Lambert, David Segal and everyone at the Network for their generous contribution to the University of Aftermarket Foundation and their commitment to help secure the future of the aftermarket through the education of the next generation of industry leaders,” said Rusty Bishop, chairman of the University of the Aftermarket Foundation.
About the Network
The Automotive Distribution Network is the umbrella organization for four of the premier groups in the automotive aftermarket, Parts Plus, Independant Auto Parts of America, Auto Pride, and CMB Network. The combined strength and stability of these top groups in a Network of over 300 WD locations that service 1,500+ affiliated auto stores and over 2,000 affiliated service centers. In addition, these members support Network Products Warehouse, a member-owned warehouse distribution company located in Somerville, Tennessee. For more information, visit www.networkhq.com.
About the University of the Aftermarket Foundation
Since 1986, the University of the Aftermarket Foundation (formerly the AWDA University Foundation) has provided funding for aftermarket educational programs and research. Through its grant program, the Foundation and its donors ensure that education has a positive, stabilizing influence on the future of the aftermarket. The Foundation reached a milestone during the fourth quarter of 2006 by surpassing $5 million in donations during its ongoing endowment campaign. For more information about the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, call (816) 584-0511.
