It is with a mixture of excitement and gratitude that I begin my year of service as the chairman of the Automotive Service Association (ASA) board of directors.

Half of me is excited because ASA is positioned to continue advancing the independent automotive service industry. I'm excited because ASA is working hard for every member, making certain your needs and concerns have a voice. You are not alone. There are more than 12,000 of us united in the belief that automotive service is a great way to make a living and provides opportunities not only for us today, but also for our children tomorrow.

The other half is grateful because ASA is responsible for the professional successes I've enjoyed. In fact, I would not be in business today were it not for ASA, the Automotive Management Institute (AMI) and the many member benefits I've enjoyed.

When I opened my own shop several years ago, I thought I knew everything. What I discovered was that I was a pretty fair technician, but a poor businessman. ASA and AMI made it possible for me to become a businessman. The education I received through the association's activities and AMI courses turned my business around. I could pick up my wrenches and earn a living. But, now, I can also pick up a financial statement and understand my business. ASA made my American dream, the dream of owning my own shop, a reality.

I am very appreciative that I have the opportunity to pursue my dream and to practice the profession I've chosen. In the United States, we sometimes take this freedom for granted. I live in Washington state and not too long ago I was reminded that people are willing to sacrifice everything to come to America. I was reminded of this when a group of Chinese immigrants lost their lives fleeing communism, hoping to reach the West Coast.

We complain about government regulations and bureaucracy. Still, this is the best country in the world - where you can own your own business and pursue your own dream.

ASA is committed to these principles and is working to ensure our industry remains favorable, free and open.

Looking forward to the next 12 months, I enter this year as your board chairman with a commitment to serve this industry, this association and its members to the absolute best of my ability. I owe ASA the realization of my dream. That's a debt I'll never be able to repay fully, but I want to give back what I can.

When my term as chairman ends next year, I want to leave knowing we - you, me and every shop owner who's a part of ASA - made it possible for others to realize their dreams.

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