The automotive industry is one of our nation's largest industries. There is a car on the road for virtually every American adult. As repair professionals, we are not casual participants in this industry. Because our livelihood is earned by our sweat and expertise in repairing cars, we have a personal stake in the industry.

We have elected to further stake our claim by joining the Automotive Service Association (ASA). We are not just industry stakeholders, but ASA stakeholders as well. As a stakeholder, you have a voice in determining what interests ASA will represent; what issues it'll go to battle for.

Shop owner stakeholders and ASA member stakeholders represent a segment of the automotive industry. Among other industry segments that are stakeholders are consumers, trade associations, vehicle manufacturers, parts manufacturers and suppliers, paint companies, recyclers and salvage companies, information providers, equipment manufacturers, trade publications, vocational schools, technical educators and management educators.

We could easily triple that list. What's important to note is the fact this industry is huge and multifaceted. Each stakeholder group has its own role and its own priorities. None, however, operates solo. Each is mutually dependent on other stakeholders.

Is what you and I do as shop owner/ASA member stakeholders any more or less important than the work being done by other industry entities? Can we operate without the other groups? Can they operate without us?

The answer to these questions is no. We are in this together. We need them and they need us. I cannot run my shop profitably and perform quality repair work without crossing from my stakeholder group into several other groups. I need management education. My techs need training. I have to buy parts, paint and equipment. I depend on information providers for their software.

Every day I am reminded that I am far from “independent” in my independent shop. Simultaneously, I don't want to lose my own niche in this huge industry. That's why I have taken a stake in ASA.

I can say this without reservation: ASA realizes every stakeholder group in our industry supports and is supported by every other stakeholder group. ASA must make every effort to strengthen the relationships between the groups.

At the same time, ASA is making certain the interests specific to our stakeholders - independent collision and mechanical shop owners - are represented, guarded and fought for.

We have a lot at stake. The best way to protect and promote that stake is to join others with similar stakes and make certain we are represented. That's what you and I are doing together through our ASA membership.

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