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Northwood honors aftermarket leaders with education awards

November 9, 2023
A group of aftermarket leaders poses in two rows against a Northwood University backdrop, celebrating their Northwood honors.

Northwood University recently honored seven prominent supporters of educational initiatives and learning within the automotive aftermarket industry during its annual Automotive Aftermarket Management Education Awards luncheon in Las Vegas, Nevada.

“We appreciate our university’s special relationship with the aftermarket industry,” said President Kent MacDonald during the luncheon. “The future is bright for Northwood students, as we have implemented a strategic plan for growth in all programs with a focus on automotive and the automotive aftermarket. We are exceedingly grateful for industry leaders who continue to support and shape our students through internships and experiential learning.”

Since 1975, Northwood has honored aftermarket leaders for their significant efforts to further the cause of education for business and society. The Automotive Aftermarket Management Education Award honorees, past and present, comprise a “who’s who” of this industry.

This year’s honorees include:

  • Randy Buller, CEO, Parts Authority, New Hyde Park, New York

  • Michael C. Buzzard, of Dallas, Texas, managing partner, Schwartz Advisors (headquartered in La Jolla, California)

  • Arthur “Bo” Fisher III, CEO/owner, Fisher Auto Parts, Staunton, Virginia

  • Dr. Donald R. James, CEO, Solero Technologies, Rochester Hills

  • Brian B. Norko, senior vice president, commercial business operations, Niterra North America, Inc. (formerly NGK Spark Plugs), Wixom, Michigan

  • Aaron M. Shaffer, director of marketing services, Standard Motor Products, Long Island City, New York.

  • Chris Williams, president and CEO, NA Williams, Atlanta, Georgia

The Automotive Aftermarket Management Awards were developed in partnership with the Auto Care Association, Aftermarket Warehouse Distributors Association, Motor & Equipment Manufacturer’s Association and Northwood University. Recipients were honored during a luncheon program held earlier this month at the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) in Las Vegas, Nevada. AAPEX is one of the leading international meetings for the global automotive aftermarket industry.

Northwood students enrolled in the Automotive Aftermarket Management program — which is the only four-year degree program of its kind in the nation — presented the awards to the honorees.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to gather today to recognize and celebrate the successes of these professionals who are being honored by Northwood University for making a difference in the lives of many in their communities and in the aftermarket industry,” stated Northwood student Owen Hayes, of Whitehall, Michigan.

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