It happens every fall during the industry’s largest trade show, AAPEX/SEMA. Northwood University honors individuals in the aftermarket industry “in recognition of substantial dedication over a number of years to the educational process and the field of the motor vehicle aftermarket.”

This year, two HDA Truck Pride members were recognized. Corey Bartlett, of Automotive Parts Headquarters; and Mike Betts, of Betts Truck Parts and Service and Betts HD. While both have strived to participate in continued education for themselves and their staff, it’s their efforts outside their businesses that may be most impressive.

Bartlett has helped create the Automotive Alliance’s Technician of the Year program, chaired the Automotive Warehouse Distributors Association (AWDA) board of governors, and served as a mentor of Young Auto Care Networking Group (YANG). His dedication to the next generation is evident in how he spends his time.

Betts saw an opportunity in his local market and took unprecedented initiative. With roots in the Central Valley of California, Betts recognized the desperate need for medium- and heavy- duty technical schools in his area. After years of meeting with school districts around the country, Betts helped launch Duncan Polytechnical High School in Fresno, California. He now helps build curriculum for the students attending.

“We couldn’t be prouder to have these two gentlemen recognized by the industry for their commitment to education within the automotive aftermarket. They represent the essence of HDA Truck Pride’s training and recruitment efforts, and speak to the core of why we exist,” says Nikki Paschall, director of marketing for HDA Truck Pride. “We commend Northwood University for not only recognizing, but rewarding these efforts.”