Eric Sills, president and chief executive officer at Standard Motor Products, Inc. (SMP), was awarded the 2022 AASA Member Advocacy Award on November 2 at the AAPEX show in Las Vegas. 

“Eric has taken up the reins of representing the aftermarket during a very difficult time for our country and our industry,” said Ann Wilson, senior vice president of government affairs, Motor and Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA).  “Whether discussing supply chain challenges on Capitol Hill or organizing his colleagues to support the REPAIR Act, Eric has focused on advocating for the aftermarket.  It is truly an honor to work with Eric and to present this award to him.” 

Sills has testified to Congress on behalf of the entire manufacturing community on supply chain challenges and investing to strengthen American manufacturing and competitiveness. Sills activated his SMP-employee base to reach out to their congresspeople in support of the REPAIR Act and to help ensure a competitive market and consumer choice on where and with what parts vehicles are repaired. Sills and his team work toward an outcome that is positive for manufacturers, channel partners, the aftermarket, and for consumers. As someone who is a fourth-generation leader in the aftermarket, he is an executive who not only focuses on his own organization’s success, but also considers the supplier community and our industry as a whole.  

“I am deeply honored to receive this award,” commented Eric Sills.  “The aftermarket is in my blood, and it is more important than ever that the industry fully participates in all aspects of the public policy process.” 

Ann Wilson, MEMA’s senior vice president of government affairs, and Paul McCarthy, president and CEO of AASA, took the stage to officially name Sills as the 2022 AASA Advocacy Champion.  

Also honored during the award presentation were Franchelle Thomas who was awarded the AASA DEI Leadership Award (Individual) and MOTOR Information Systems, who was awarded the AASA DEI Leadership Award (Corporation).