Largest Class in Nine Years to Receive AAP, MAAP Designations at AAPEX

From aftermarketNews Staff & Wire Reports

MIDLAND, Mich. – Sixteen industry professionals will receive their AAP (Automotive Aftermarket Professional) or MAAP (Master Automotive Aftermarket Professional) certifications from the University of the Aftermarket during this year’s AAPEX Show in Las Vegas. The size of the 2008 class – the largest since 1999 – reflects a resurgence of interest in the University’s programming as well as a growing recognition of the benefits of aftermarket-specific professional development, said the University.

The University will award the certifications – earned through years of study, participation in industry events and a variety of leadership activities – during a luncheon on Tuesday, Nov. 4, at the Venetian Hotel and Resort. Certifications will be conferred by Brian Cruickshank, AAP, director of the University of the Aftermarket, and Robert Gracey, MAAP, president of the University of the Aftermarket Alumni Association.

The 2008 University of the Aftermarket graduates are:

MAAP

· Jon Owens, Auto7, Inc.

· Kathleen Schmatz, Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association

AAP

· Rusty Bishop, Federated Auto Parts

· Wayne Dyer, The Timken Co.

· Bryan Funke, R.L. Polk & Co.

· Paul Engl, Wells Manufacturing

· Chris Gardner, Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association

· Michael Harvey, Affinia Group

· Roy Kent, Federal-Mogul Corp.

· Jerry McCabe, Affinia Group

· Michael Peace, The Timken Co.

· Joseph Pomaranski, Tenneco Inc.

· Mark Richardson, Falcon Steering Systems

· Scott Richmond, SAE Warehouse

· Michael Schwab, NGK Spark Plugs

· John Wick, Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance

The University of the Aftermarket offers the AAP and MAAP certification programs to recognize a long-term commitment to the aftermarket and professional development through programs and courses offered by the University and its industry association partners. Developed in partnership by the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association, the Automotive Warehouse Distributors Association, the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association and Northwood University, these programs highlight both the educational and professional achievements of each recipient and, by extension, demonstrate the resulting competitive advantage for their employers and the aftermarket industry.

For more information on the University’s professional certification programs, please visit www.northwood.edu/aftermarket.