ANN ARBOR, MI — With more than 28 years of experience, Wenskovitch currently works as a machine shop foreman for DLK Auto Parts and Machine in Russelton, PA., where he was the first employee of the machine shop. His early beginnings as a machinist stemmed from his love of taking things apart and putting things back together, which began at an early age.
“I never thought that something like this would happen to me, since we’re located in rural Pennsylvania,” Wenskovitch stated. “I’m just honored that Jeff thought enough of me and my abilities to nominate me.”
“When I learned that John had been selected as this year’s Victor Reinz Machinist of the Year, I thought it was fitting because he’s one of the most talented machinists that I’ve ever met,” said Jeff Gillen, machine shop service writer for DLK Auto Parts and Machine. “Even though John is the highest labor producer at DLK, he always takes the time to help his co-workers with any problems that they are experiencing – either professionally or personally.”
The judges stated that Wenskovitch’s outstanding work history and the letter of recommendation that were included with his application, along with his involvement in his community, made him the clear choice for this year’s award.
Upon hearing of his selection, Wenskovitch thanked Clevite Engine Parts for its recognition. “Thank you to all the folks at Clevite Engine Parts for using this award to recognize all that machinists do for the industry. I am honored to be placed in such great company.”
Like so many years, 2005 saw many applications nominating deserving machinists. While not every one can be named the Victor Reinz Machinist of the Year, one application in particular stood out from the crowd. As a result, Paul Nelson, automotive machinist instructor with Northwest Technical College in Bemidji, MN, will receive the first ever Russell Rogers Memorial Achievement Award.
Nelson has served the engine rebuilding industry for 26 years and has held a number of careers, including: shop manager, salesman, and shop owner, in addition to his current position as an instructor. He’s also a member of the AERA, the ASE and the Clevite Engine Builder Club.
Russell was named the second machinist of the year back in 1992 when he was a young lad working for Harry’s Crankshaft in Dodge City,” said Bill McKnight, director of marketing for Clevite. “He went on to become owner of the company, gave unselfishly of himself to the AERA and our industry and made those of us at Clevite proud every time we saw him. We think this award is a fitting way to keep those fond memories alive.”
Along with the AERA and the ASE, Clevite Engine Parts established the Victor Reinz Machinist of the Year Award in order to recognize the valuable contributions machinists make to the automotive rebuilding industry. This year’s award was presented at the AERA New Products Showcase in Las Vegas, NV, on April 28, 2005. The Victor Reinz Machinist of the Year Award consists of an all-expense paid trip to the AERA Showcase, $500 in spending money, a custom Victor Reinz jacket and a commemorative plaque. Information on the Machinist of the Year Award can be found on the Clevite Engine Parts Web site at www.engineparts.com .
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