The Equipment & Tool Institute (ETI) announced Executive Director Brian Plott retired June 30, after six years of distinguished service to the organization and more than four decades of leadership in the automotive aftermarket.
“Brian’s vision and steady leadership guided ETI through one of the most transformative chapters in our 75 year history,” said Chris Bahlman, president and chair of the ETI Board of Directors. “From international expansion to the evolution of our Industry Technology Conference, his impact will be felt for years to come. On behalf of the board and our membership serving over 100,000 professional repairers, we offer our gratitude and best wishes for his well earned retirement.”
To ensure seamless continuity, the ETI Board of Directors has appointed Winston Lee, currently ETI Europe’s managing director, as interim executive director effective July 1. Winston brings 20 years of technical, operational and advocacy experience within ETI member companies and has been instrumental in advancing key initiatives such as secure vehicle interface standards and expanded training programs.
“I’m honored to serve our members during this transition,” said Lee. “With the guidance of the board and the support of our dedicated staff and volunteers, ETI will continue to deliver the tools, data access and collaborative forums that keep independent repairers at the forefront of advanced vehicle service.”
The board will continue to evaluate the evolving needs of ETI before making any decision on a permanent appointment and any overall strategy adjustments.
Bahlman will remain in his volunteer role as president and board chair through April 2026, working closely with Lee and the staff to execute ETI’s strategic plan and expand program value.
“In an environment with increasing vehicle repair access challenges, ETI is poised for growth,” said Bahlman. “With Winston’s operational leadership and the board’s strategic oversight, we committed to serving the independent repair community with the resources needs to thrive.”
Plott began his automotive career at Bear Automotive Equipment and later held key roles at Sun Electric, ALLDATA and Snap-on, where he served as the single point of contact for Ford Motor Company and Penske Corp. Since joining ETI in 2019, Plott’s accomplishments have included:
• Launching ETI Europe and forging new OEM collaboration channels
• Modernizing ETI’s digital presence and communications strategy
• Transforming Tech Weeks into the annual Industry Technology Conference, drawing record attendance
Plott will remain an active advisor and friend of ETI and plans to stay involved in industry events post retirement.
