The Custom Automotive Network (CAN), formerly known as Performance Warehouse Association, would like to congratulate Rick Kovalick and Trent Lowe for being named the 2018 Pioneer Award recipients. The prestigious honor is being presented in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the custom automotive distribution system and in appreciation of conscientious dedication to the industry. This award is nominated by CAN membership and voted on by a committee comprised of previous Pioneer Award winners. The awards will be officially presented at CAN’s General Membership Meeting on Oct. 31 in Las Vegas.
“This is a special year as Custom Automotive Network is recognizing the contributions of two very deserving Pioneer Award winners. Trent Lowe is being honored for his leadership of a highly regarded distribution company and for his steadfast contribution on the board of directors that shaped and guided the association’s membership through critical times,” said Tracie Nunez, president of Custom Automotive Network.
“Rick Kovalick’s leadership, performance and service during his career created a lasting impact in current purchasing and marketing practices with several top distributors. It is a privilege to honor both men who have helped to strengthen and expand the automotive distribution system throughout their careers,” Nunez added.
Kovalick, CRP and vice president of National Performance Warehouse Companies (NPW), hails from a long career with specialty automotive industry leaders: Keystone Automotive Operations, Keystone Automotive Warehouse and most recently, NPW. His career began in retail and installer sales in 1971. He rapidly moved up the ranks at Top Fuel Champion and owner Joe Amato’s Keystone Automotive Warehouse organization to establish and lead a professional purchasing and marketing team for more than 25 years. During his career, Kovalick has been involved in a number of industry organizations and events. He has served on various panels, committees and the board of directors for CAN and SEMA.
Lowe is the former president of Time Automotive Distributors located in Salt Lake City, Utah, and Boise, Idaho. In 2014, Time Automotive celebrated 50 years of doing business as a regional distributor of performance and truck accessories. In August of 2015, Time Automotive Distributors was acquired by NPW and Lowe retired from NPW in June of 2016. Lowe has been a dedicated supporter of the association and spent 17 years serving as a director and as treasurer on the PWA/CAN board of directors.
