LAS VEGAS Fifteen motor vehicle aftermarket professionals received their University of the Aftermarket AAP (Automotive Aftermarket Professional) or MAAP (Master Automotive Aftermarket Professional) certifications today during a luncheon ceremony at the 2009 AAPEX Show. The MAAP class, with 10 recipients, is the largest in the university’s history.
The professional certifications, earned through years of study, participation in industry events and a variety of leadership activities, were conferred by Brian Cruickshank, AAP, director of the University of the Aftermarket, and Robert Gracey, MAAP, president of the University of the Aftermarket Alumni Association.
“Presenting these certificates is one of the best parts of my job,” Cruickshank said. “This year’s graduates include not only some of the biggest names in the aftermarket, but also several next-generation leaders who are committed to the continued growth of our industry.”
The 2009 University of the Aftermarket graduates are:
MAAP
Corey Bartlett, Automotive Parts Headquarters Inc.
Jack Creamer, Distribution Marketing Services
Chris Gardner, Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association
Alfred Gaspar, Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association
James John, Northwood University
Tim Lee, Lang Distributing
Richard Morgan, Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance Inc.
Joe Pomaranski, Tenneco Inc.
Tom Rafferty, Affinia Group Inc.
Mark Richardson, Falcon Steering Inc.
AAP
Amy Antenora, Babcox Publications
Margaret Beck, Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association
William Grover Jr., Moog Louisville Warehouse
Richard Mezadurian, Falcon Steering Inc.
Susan Ulrey, Tenneco Inc.
The University of the Aftermarket offers the AAP and MAAP certification programs to recognize long-term commitment to the aftermarket and professional development through programs and courses offered by the University and its industry association partners. Developed in partnership by AAIA, the Automotive Warehouse Distributors Association, MEMA and Northwood University, these programs highlight both the educational and professional achievements of each recipient and, by extension, demonstrate the resulting competitive advantage for their employers and the aftermarket industry.