RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. — For more than 35 years, the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) Triangle Award has been presented periodically to honor industry leaders for selfless contributions to the motor vehicle parts industry. Nominations for the Triangle Award can be made online at any time at the MEMA website.

The award is the highest honor presented by MEMA and its affiliate associations: Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA), Heavy Duty Manufacturers Association (HDMA), Motor & Equipment Remanufacturers Association (MERA) and Original Equipment Suppliers Association (OESA).

The Triangle Award’s roster of winners, beginning in 1974, includes legends of the industry, but its main prestige arises from its selective presentation process. From its inception, the Triangle Award was not intended as an annual award. The award is only presented when truly deserving candidates are found – those whose contributions have advanced the supplier industry.

According to Bob McKenna, MEMA president and CEO, that philosophy has continued to contribute to the award’s stature.

“The Triangle Award furthers the belief that many of the most important contributions to the industry are made by those who work quietly and effectively behind the scenes, out of the glare of public accolade, to advance the interests of the entire industry,” he said.

Pete Kornafel, vice chairman of CARQUEST and chairman of the Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium (GAAS) Scholarship Committee, received the Triangle Award in 2010. Other past winners include: Gene Ezzell, retired president of Crane Cams (2009); David O’Reilly, chairman, O’Reilly Automotive Inc. (2007); Pete Joy, Haldex Friction Brake Products (2006); O. Temple Sloan Jr., General Parts Inc. (2005); the late Joe Magliochetti, Dana Corp. (2002); Tom Gallagher, Genuine Parts Co. (1999); and the late Larry McCurdy (1993). A full list of MEMA Triangle Award winners can be found on the MEMA website.