Chairman’s Message
by Don Seyfer*, AAM I’ve Got This Cousin ...
I’ve got this cousin who can get you a really great deal! Oh, how many times I have heard that. Well, here goes another story, but this one is true! I am going to tell you about a lot of "cousins" that you have never met. They will not be blood relatives, but cousins just the same. They are the many people that serve on committees, boards, panels and the like, and do so in our best interests.These dedicated professionals who represent our industry do so through a variety of organizations, groups and associations -- both national and local in scale -- many of which you know and may already appreciate. I want to point out a few of the groups where you’ll find our automotive cousins because our business interests are affected greatly by the efforts of these professionals.
Certainly, every Automotive Service Association (ASA) member is aware of the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). You may have these letters sewn on your sleeve or posted on your building next to your ASA sign. So consider for a moment your peers who are actively involved -- on multiple levels -- with ASE and its operations. Many are also involved with the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF). Input from your peers is a vital part of the direction taken by these groups and their impact on our industry.
The Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) and the I-CAR Education Foundation also play host to many of your peers. Through committees and similar platforms of representation, shop owners and technicians, including fellow ASA members, are making a difference and enhancing our industry.
Other education concerns may be addressed through groups such as the Automotive Service Association Management Institute (ASAMI) or the Vocation Industrial Clubs of America (VICA). And peers involved with the Vehicle Maintenance Council (VMC) are addressing consumer relations and safety concerns. Regardless of which organization they are involved in, these automotive cousins are serving the industry and you and I are receiving the benefits.
Now for more good news! You can’t have a cousin without being one! Even if you’re not directly involved with some of these other groups, your involvement in ASA supports the industry and provides a great benefit to your fellow automotive service professionals! You, too, are helping to create a better future for our industry. Thanks, Cuz!
*Don Seyfer is the chairman of the ASA board of directors
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AutoInc. Magazine ®, Vol. XLIV No. 7, July 1996