{"ad19730a-ec98-4b57-91dc-7ac3df071908":"<p>Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper are proud to announce Kevin Kiggins, of Pullen’s Garage in Hamilton Township, New Jersey, as the 2025 U.S. Technician of the Year Champion, following an exciting four-day event in Detroit, Michigan, held July 7–10. Kiggins is a customer and Certified Service Center member of Eastern Warehouse Distributors.</p>","7418a520-65c4-4f67-a4d3-e560d2f5f28d":"<p>DETROIT, MI – Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper are proud to announce Kevin Kiggins, of Pullen’s Garage in Hamilton Township, New Jersey, as the 2025 U.S. Technician of the Year Champion, following an exciting four-day event in Detroit, Michigan, held July 7–10. Kiggins is a customer and Certified Service Center member of Eastern Warehouse Distributors.</p><p>“This recognition is beyond anything I could have imagined,” said Kevin Kiggins, the 2025 champion. “To compete with such talented professionals and come out on top—it’s truly humbling. I’m incredibly thankful to my distributor, my team, and the Alliance for making this experience unforgettable.”</p><p>“We’re excited to congratulate Kevin Kiggins on being named the 2025 Technician of the Year,” said Nick Przybylowski, Director of Sales for Eastern Warehouse Distributors. “This event showcases the technical skills and acumen required to be a high-performance automotive professional. Kevin has always been a value to our network and this recognition is fantastic. Congrats once again!”</p><p>Elite technicians from across the United States—each representing a top-performing Auto Value or Bumper to Bumper Certified Service Center—gathered for a rigorous competition designed to test both knowledge and hands-on expertise. Finalists faced a customized ASE exam and a series of timed, hands-on challenges facilitated by professional trainers from Garage Gurus. Combined scores from the various testing determined the overall 2025 Technician of the Year Champion.</p><p>“ASE is proud to support and participate in the Auto Value &amp; Bumper to Bumper Technician of the Year program,” said Dave Johnson, President &amp; CEO of ASE. “This is a special event that showcases the skills and professional résumés of talented technicians – with a very critical focus on training and technical acumen. Congratulations to this year’s winners!”</p><p>Beyond the competition, technicians and their guests explored the best of Motor City. Highlights included immersive experiences at the Ford Rouge Factory Tour, Greenfield Village, and the Henry Ford Museum, along with high-speed excitement at the M1 Concourse. The event concluded with an exclusive awards dinner that brought the celebration to a memorable close.</p><p>“This event brings together the best of the best technicians along with a select group of aftermarket professionals in what we believe is the strongest technician recognition</p><p>program in our industry,” said Jim Holik, Director of Marketing at the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance, Inc. “When you look at the size of the Auto Value &amp; Bumper to Bumper Certified Service Center program – to have these select and elite technicians here is really something special. This event gives us a chance to recognize their impact and provide the recognition and flowers they deserve.”</p><p>Joining the finalists were the 2025 Auto Value Technician of the Year finalists from Canada and the 2025 Latin America Champion, reinforcing international bonds and celebrating global excellence. This year’s Auto Value Canadian Champion is Mitch Rauhala, of RNG Auto Care &amp; Repair Inc., Mountain View County, Alberta, a customer of Central Auto Parts Distributors. Representing Auto Value Latin America, Juan Luis Montes de Oca Urbina, of Servicio Montes de Oca, in Michoacán de Ocampo, México, and a customer of Distribuidora de Autopartes Pescador S.A. de C.V., was named the 2025 Latin American Champion.</p><p>Garage Gurus and DRiV once again played a pivotal role in supporting the program, providing expert instruction, world-class facilities, and generous sponsorship.</p><p>“This event is always a highlight for us,” said Charles Sargant, Sales Director of Program Groups and Key Accounts at DRiV. “It’s a privilege to host such dedicated professionals and show our support for the individuals who keep our industry running strong. These technicians are the backbone of the aftermarket, and investing in their growth and recognition is essential. We’re proud to partner with the Alliance to help elevate the next generation of automotive leaders.”</p><p>With over 3,900 Certified Service Centers in the Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper network, earning a place in the Technician of the Year competition is a remarkable accomplishment. The 2025 finalists exemplify the skill, passion, and professionalism that continue to move the automotive aftermarket forward.</p><p>The Technician of the Year program is more than a competition—it’s a celebration of the individuals who embody the values of craftsmanship, innovation, and dedication that define the aftermarket industry. Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper proudly recognize the following 2025 finalists for their outstanding performance and commitment to excellence:</p><p>2025 Technician of the Year Finalists:</p><ul><li>Rafael Borja | Robertson Automotive; Chandler, TX | ABC Auto Parts, Ltd</li><li>Jared Boxshall | Lube King Service Centre; Winnipeg, MB, CA | Piston Ring Service Supply</li><li>Edward Castro | Ace Auto Repair and Tire; Pinole, CA | Trimon Inc. DBA Monument Car Parts</li><li>Phil Clark | Barnes Auto Service; Louisville, KY | Moog Louisville Warehouse</li><li>Gerald Dahlin | D.A.D’S Auto Repair; Baresford, SD | Automotive Parts Headquarters, Inc.</li><li>Michael Dyer | Westgate High-Tech Autocare; Omaha, NE | Arnold Motor Supply</li><li>Jamie Fowler II | Marty’s Complete Automotive; Ft. Lauderdale, FL | National Performance Warehouse, Inc.</li><li>Kevin Kiggins | Pullen’s Garage; Hamilton Township, NJ | Eastern Auto Parts Warehouse</li><li>Casey O’Sullivan | Interstate Auto Care; Madison Heights, MI | Auto- Wares Group of Companies</li><li>Christopher Potucek | CC Auto Parts and Service; Springfield, KY | Hahn Automotive Warehouse, Inc.</li><li>Brad Probus | Troys Auto Service; Smithland, KY | Parts Warehouse, Inc.</li><li>Mitch Rauhala | RNG Auto Care &amp; Repair Inc. |Mountain View County; AB, CA | Central Auto Parts Distributors</li><li>Luis Reina | Tech &amp; Tires Corp; Miami, FL | National Performance Warehouse, Inc.</li><li>Matthew Reitmeier | Travel Care Regina Ltd.; Regina, SK, CA | Auto Electric Service</li></ul>"}