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WAI, UAF Announce Bill Ernst Memorial Scholarship
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By Counterman
MEMA, The Vehicle Suppliers Association (MEMA) announced the retirement of its esteemed president and CEO, Bill Long, to be effective January 3, 2026. Under Bill Long’s visionary leadership, MEMA has seen significant growth and transformative changes that have solidified its position as a leading association in the industry.
“Throughout his tenure, Bill Long has been instrumental in fostering innovation, advocating for industry interests and strengthening
link hidden, please login to view role in shaping the future of motor and equipment manufacturing through some of the most challenging and transformative times in automotive history. His leadership, dedication and expertise have earned him widespread respect and admiration from colleagues and industry partners alike during his more than 40-year career,” said MEMA Chairman Kurk Wilks, president and CEO of MANN+HUMMEL.
In conjunction with Bill Long’s retirement, the link hidden, please login to view Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Paul McCarthy as the new president and CEO, effective January 3, 2026. Paul McCarthy brings a wealth of industry experience and a deep commitment to advancing MEMA’s mission. With his remarkable leadership skills and extensive industry knowledge, the MEMA Board is confident that in Paul McCarthy, they have selected the right leader to drive the association forward and take it to another level, building upon the strong foundation laid by Bill Long.
Paul McCarthy has been an integral part of MEMA’s leadership team, contributing significantly to its success as MEMA’s senior vice president of strategy and president of MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers. In his almost three decades in our industry, he has extensive experience in all of MEMA’s member segments: original equipment, commercial vehicles and the aftermarket. His vision for MEMA will enhance our value of member-centricity and our objectives of a powerful supplier voice, strong industry advocacy, innovation and excellence.
“I am deeply honored to have served as MEMA’s president and CEO and am proud of what we have achieved together,” said Bill Long. “I have full confidence in Paul McCarthy’s ability to lead MEMA into a bright and successful future.”
Paul McCarthy added, “I am excited to take on this new role, champion the supplier industry I am so passionate about and lead the talented team at MEMA. Together, we will serve our members and drive a growing, profitable, innovative and influential vehicle supplier community. We seek to be an association that is vital to our members’ success, protects suppliers and helps our members see the road ahead in a time of change.”
As MEMA embarks on this new chapter, the MEMA board extends its heartfelt gratitude to Bill Long for his exceptional service and contributions to the vehicle supplier community during his 13-year tenure at MEMA and his six years as president and CEO, and we look forward to the dynamic strategic vision of Paul McCarthy to lead us forward. The post
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By Counterman
The Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance, with support from the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, announced the establishment of the Pat Biermann Memorial Heavy Duty Scholarship. This new heavy-duty scholarship honors the life and contributions of Pat Biermann. The Alliance described Biermann was a visionary leader in the heavy-duty aftermarket, a trusted advisor to the Alliance and a beloved colleague. Biermann passed away Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at the age of 75.
Honoring a Heavy Duty Scholarship Leader and Mentor
The Alliance said Biermann devoted more than 40 years to the heavy-duty aftermarket, leaving an indelible legacy through his leadership, innovation and dedication. As a co-founder and long-serving president of HD America (HDA), he helped propel the organization to a position of industry leadership. After retiring, he continued to contribute his expertise as a heavy-duty advisor and consultant for the Alliance. The Alliance added that Biermann exemplified the true spirit of “Heavy Duty”—facing challenges head-on, fostering growth and mentoring the next generation.
Pat Biermann’s Career Spanned Decades of Impact
A graduate of Washington University, Biermann rooted his career in engineering. His work spanned leadership and strategic development and significantly impacted the commercial vehicle and heavy-duty industry. Biermann’s efforts strengthened the industry’s foundation and prepared it for future growth.
Scholarship Supports Future Heavy-Duty Professionals
In tribute to Biermann’s memory and his direct contributions to the Alliance, the scholarship offers a one-time award of $2,500. It supports a student actively pursuing a career within the vital heavy-duty industry. Eligible career paths include Diesel Technician, Truck Driver (CDL training), Fleet Manager, Heavy Duty Parts Specialist, or a similar heavy duty-related field.
Legacy Invests in Skilled Hands-On Careers
“Pat Biermann was not only an industry giant but also a trusted advisor and friend to the Alliance’s Commercial Vehicle and Heavy Duty program. His insights were invaluable, and his passion for this industry was infectious,” said Mario Gonzalez, CVHD program manager for the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance.
“Pat truly understood that the backbone of the heavy-duty world lies in the skilled technicians, drivers, parts specialists, and fleet managers who keep things moving.
By establishing this memorial scholarship—with the generous support of the University of the Aftermarket Foundation—we honor Pat’s legacy in a practical way: by investing directly in the dedicated individuals pursuing these essential, hands-on careers. It’s a tribute he would have deeply appreciated.”
The Alliance said it encourages students who are committed to building careers in these essential roles to apply for the scholarship.
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By Counterman
Applications for the Art Fisher Memorial Scholarships are now being accepted at
link hidden, please login to view. Thirteen scholarships for the 2025-26 academic year, in memory of the late founder of Federated Auto Parts, will be awarded to students preparing for automotive aftermarket careers. The deadline to enter is March 31, 2025.
The
link hidden, please login to view are administered by the University of the Aftermarket Foundation ( link hidden, please login to view) and are awarded to students attending a two- or four-year accredited college, an ASE certified post-secondary automotive, heavy-duty or collision technician training program or any licensed and accredited vocational school. Students graduating from high school in 2024 and heading to any of these post-secondary programs are also eligible. “It brings immense pride to everyone at Federated to provide these scholarships to exceptional applicants each year,” said Bo Fisher, chairman of
link hidden, please login to view. “Awarding the Art Fisher Memorial Scholarships is a way to give back, help deserving young students and honor my father’s memory.” Federated is one of more than 30 organizations that award scholarships on the UAF Automotive Aftermarket Scholarship Central
link hidden, please login to view. As an added benefit for students who apply at AutomotiveScholarships.com, each completed application will be considered for every scholarship opportunity where the candidate meets the qualifications. The post
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By Counterman
Applications for the Art Fisher Memorial Scholarships are now being accepted at
link hidden, please login to view. Thirteen scholarships for the 2025-26 academic year, in memory of the late founder of Federated Auto Parts, will be awarded to students preparing for automotive aftermarket careers. The deadline to enter is March 31, 2025.
The
link hidden, please login to view are administered by the University of the Aftermarket Foundation ( link hidden, please login to view) and are awarded to students attending a two- or four-year accredited college, an ASE certified post-secondary automotive, heavy-duty or collision technician training program or any licensed and accredited vocational school. Students graduating from high school in 2024 and heading to any of these post-secondary programs are also eligible. “It brings immense pride to everyone at Federated to provide these scholarships to exceptional applicants each year,” said Bo Fisher, chairman of
link hidden, please login to view. “Awarding the Art Fisher Memorial Scholarships is a way to give back, help deserving young students and honor my father’s memory.” Federated is one of more than 30 organizations that award scholarships on the UAF Automotive Aftermarket Scholarship Central
link hidden, please login to view. As an added benefit for students who apply at AutomotiveScholarships.com, each completed application will be considered for every scholarship opportunity where the candidate meets the qualifications. The post
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By Counterman
WAI Global announced its acquisition of ACI Automotive from Standard Motor Products. According to WAI, this acquisition strengthens
link hidden, please login to view’s product portfolio and enhances its ability to address evolving customer needs with innovative, high-quality solutions. “By integrating ACI’s capabilities, we continue to expand our product offering and strengthen our expertise in managing complex, technical and SKU intensive product lines,” said Ryan Moul, CEO of
link hidden, please login to view. “This acquisition reinforces our commitment to providing differentiated programs that drive value across our expanded portfolio.” Key Highlights of the Acquisition:
Expanded Product Portfolio: The addition of ACI’s washer pump, window regulator, and door handle lines broadens WAI’s offerings. Seamless Customer Transition: Customers can expect uninterrupted service as we ensure a smooth integration process, WAI said. Enhanced Customer Reach: Leveraging WAI’s extensive global distribution network, ACI’s products will now be accessible to a broader audience worldwide. The integration process is already underway, with teams from both organizations working collaboratively to ensure a smooth transition for customers, employees and stakeholders, WAI said.
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