Custom Automotive Network, formerly known as Performance Warehouse Association, recognized Ken Woomer for being named 2017 Pioneer Award Winner of the Year. The award is voted on by the active CAN Board of Directors in recognition of outstanding contributions to the custom automotive distribution system and in appreciation of conscientious dedication to the industry.
The award was presented by Custom Automotive Network's President Tracie Nunez at CAN's General Membership Meeting on November 1 in Las Vegas.
“The Pioneer award is a very special honor given to the industry leaders who have helped to strengthen and expand the automotive distribution system. Ken embraces what it means to be a true leader, and we are fortunate that he has served the CAN membership for 12 year,” said Nunez.
Woomer, an automotive enthusiast, has been involved in the automotive aftermarket industry his entire life. He began his career with Competition Specialties at the age of 13, working for his father, the late Steve Woomer, who founded CSI.
Over time, Ken earned his business degree while still continuing to learn every intricate aspect of Competition Specialties from his father. He proved himself time and time again earning positions as Phone Sales Manager in 1991, Sales Manager in 1993, and President in 1996.
Upon the unfortunate and untimely death of his father in 1998, Ken, at the age of 29, took full reign of CSI and by year 2000 he purchased the business. During the last 19 years, CSI has thrived under Ken's direction and leadership by example; he encourages his team to go beyond self-expectations, to produce excellence, and to participate in industry stewardship.
Ken is an automotive aftermarket industry advocate and activist and has been very active in industry associations. Beginning in 2002, he served three consecutive terms on CAN's Board of Directors, in 2011 was elected as PWA Chairman, and in 2015 was elected to the current Board of Directors of The AAM Group. Competition Specialties has been an active member of CAN (PWA) since 1974.
Custom Automotive Network was founded in 1970 as Performance Warehouse Association. The mission is to assist the custom automotive industry in efforts to expand, maintain and promote the profitable distribution of custom automotive products through the manufacturer, distributor, retailer and consumer channel. The trade association consists of about 500 member companies joined together to deal with management, financial and legislative matters. For over 40 years, CAN has been hosting its annual three-day conference where distributors meet with manufacturers in a private setting. CAN also publishes a bi-monthly publication called The Supply Channel. Other member benefits include an industry dealer directory, discount programs, and an industry online learning platform For more information visit www.customautomotivenetwork.com or call 760.346.5647.
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