At its February board meeting, the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of New Jersey (AASP/NJ) welcomed two new board members. Following the untimely passing of late board members Anthony Sauta and Billy Aiello, the association added Dave Gruskos of Reliable Automotive Equipment and John Craggan of Ultimate Collision Repair Inc. to the board of directors.

Gruskos has been an active industry participant for decades, and in joining the AASP/NJ board, he plans to continue sharing his invaluable experience with fellow industry members.

“I’ve been in the collision industry in New Jersey for 40 years now,” said Gruskos. “There’s certain quality pieces of expertise I’ve learned during that journey, and I’d like to share what little knowledge and wisdom I have with this industry while I still can.”

Craggan expressed similar feelings, and said he is looking to further his involvement in the collision repair industry, while also helping to address – and potentially improve – popular industry-wide concerns.

“I have always been interested in becoming more active in the industry, especially here in New Jersey,” said Craggan. “I feel responsible to do my part and get out there and try to get the word out, and I feel the best way to start is to get involved.

“I have a lot of knowledge to share, and it all starts with educating the consumers, the technicians and the insurance companies on how today’s vehicles need to be repaired. I’m passionate about this industry, and now I’m here at your disposal,” he said.

“It’s unfortunate that circumstances necessitated these actions,” said AASP/NJ President Jerry McNee. “However, we are very happy to have two men as experienced as Dave and John on our board. I’m confident they will contribute greatly.”