ASE recognizes top automotive technicians of 2022

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) recently recognized 52 of the top auto and heavy-duty technicians in the industry. These technicians were nominated by their employers based on their ASE test scores, on-the-job performance, and community involvement. The honorees include technicians from Bridgestone Retail Operations, Pep Boys, TBC Retail, Big O Tires, Midas International, and SpeeDee Oil Change.

Among the top technicians recognized are Jerry Blasingame from SpeeDee Oil Change & Auto Service, Jacob Boone from TBC Retail/NTB, Michael Todd Cooper from Pep Boys, Scot East from Firestone Complete Auto Care, Margarette Langdon-Lewis from NAPA Auto Care, John Myers from Pronto Auto Service Network, Lorenzo Ramos from Midas International, Kenneth Vieira from TBC Retail/Tire Kingdom, and Steven Whittenberg from Big O Tires. Nicholas Barajas, a master M/H truck technician at TravelCenters of America, was also recognized in the heavy-duty category.

ASE, which was established in 1972 as a non-profit organization, promotes high standards of service and repair in the industry through the assessment, certification, and credentialing of professionals. There are approximately 220,000 ASE-certified professionals working in dealerships, independent shops, collision repair shops, auto parts stores, fleets, schools, and colleges across the country.

In addition to their impressive credentials and on-the-job performance, many of the ASE Technician of the Year honorees are also actively involved in their communities. For example, Scot East, who has worked as a technician for Bridgestone Retail Operations for over 20 years, is a mentor to other technicians and is also involved with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Margarette Langdon-Lewis, a master technician with NAPA Auto Care, has led the formation of the NAPA AutoCare Business Development Group, started an apprentice program at her shop, and serves on the NATEF Certification Board for the automotive repair program at Waldo County Technical School. She is also an active member of the Mid-Coast School of Technology Alumni and a member of the NATEF panel that takes part in the certification process.

These top technicians serve as role models in the industry, setting a high bar for their colleagues and helping to uphold the standards of excellence promoted by the ASE. Their dedication and expertise are an invaluable asset to their respective employers and tech service providers, and they deserve recognition for their hard work and achievements.

It is not easy to become an ASE Technician of the Year honoree. These technicians have put in a significant amount of work and dedication to their profession in order to achieve this level of recognition. They have passed rigorous ASE tests, demonstrated exceptional on-the-job performance, and made a positive impact in their communities.

For those working in the automotive service and repair industry, becoming an ASE-certified technician is a valuable goal to strive for. ASE certification demonstrates a high level of knowledge, skill, and professionalism, and can help technicians advance in their careers and stand out in a competitive job market.

To become ASE-certified, technicians must pass one or more ASE certification tests and meet certain work experience requirements. There are over 40 ASE certification tests available, covering a wide range of specialties within the industry. To maintain their certification, technicians must also participate in continuing education and re-test every five years.

Earning ASE certification is a challenging but rewarding accomplishment, and the ASE Technician of the Year honorees serve as inspiration for those working towards this goal. These technicians have set a high standard for excellence in their profession, and their dedication and expertise are a valuable asset to the industry.