From association partnerships and executive appointments to scholarship opportunities and business acquisitions, here's a look at the latest news from around the industry this week.
SCRS, Carolinas Collision Association announce integrated membership model
The Society of Collision Repair Specialists announced a new integrated membership model with the Carolinas Collision Association that will provide CCA members with full SCRS membership benefits. Under the agreement, CCA members automatically become SCRS affiliate members with access to all national resources, while maintaining their local association identity and programming.
"This collaboration is about unity and alignment," said Kyle Bradshaw, CCA president. "We feel confident that our members gain the most value when we can leverage the strengths of our local community and voice, with the scope and resources of our national counterparts."
Kaitlyn George, executive director of CCA, will continue to lead regional efforts while coordinating with SCRS on national initiatives. Aaron Schulenburg, SCRS executive director, called the partnership "a model for how state and national organizations can work together to better serve collision repair professionals."
House subcommittee holds hearing on auto safety, right to repair
The U.S. House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Innovation, Data, and Commerce held a hearing Jan. 13 examining the SELF DRIVE Act and the REPAIR Act, two pieces of legislation with significant implications for the collision repair and automotive aftermarket industries.
Witnesses included Hilary Cain, vice president of technology, innovation and mobility policy at the Alliance for Automotive Innovation; Bill Hanvey, president and CEO of the Auto Care Association; Finch Fulton, vice president of policy at the Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association; and Michael Brooks, executive director of the Center for Auto Safety.
Dan Stander, chairman of the Automotive Service Association, commented on the hearing's significance. "This hearing represents an important step forward in the conversation about vehicle data access and the future of independent repair," Stander said. "We appreciate the committee's attention to these critical issues affecting our industry."
Revv launches United ADAS Collective
Revv, North America's largest vehicle calibration operating system, announced the launch of the United ADAS Collective, the first professional organization exclusively for the ADAS calibration community. Designed as an industry-wide hub, the UAC provides a center for shared standards, education, events, and peer-to-peer collaboration.
The UAC already includes more than 1,000 active members, spanning collision repair shop owners and managers, ADAS and calibration technicians, diagnostic professionals, and auto glass and windshield specialists. The organization's programming will include tiered training and certification, with a mix of free and paid membership options. The UAC will host its first ADAS Industry Event in May 2026.
The UAC is guided by executive director Joel Adcock, Revv's director of strategic partnerships, and an advisory board of industry leaders including Will Johnston, Ron Racine, Brett Hass, Jason Bartanen, Erin Solis, Mark Bruno, Al Urban, Darrell Amberson, Michael Frangione, Paul Bostel, Mathew Pittman, Matthew Braam, and Stew Peregrine.
"ADAS calibration has quickly become a critical part of modern vehicle repair," said Adi Bathla, CEO and co-founder of Revv. "The United ADAS Collective is an important step forward for the industry, bringing calibration professionals together around shared standards, practical support, and a stronger sense of community as the category continues to grow."
Collision Engineering Career Alliance names Mary Mahoney president
The Collision Engineering Career Alliance announced the appointment of Mary Mahoney as president of the nonprofit organization, effective Feb. 1, 2026. Mahoney is retiring from Enterprise Mobility after 40 years with the company, most recently serving as vice president of the Replacement & Leisure division, where she managed relationships with insurance companies, collision repairers, dealers, and OEMs.
"When I started my career at Enterprise Mobility as a Management Trainee, I never imagined where the journey would lead," Mahoney said. "The collision repair sector is evolving rapidly, and addressing the technician shortage will require even greater collaboration between industry and education. Leading the Collision Engineering Career Alliance allows me to focus on this mission full time."
The Collision Engineering program partners with schools across the country including College of Lake County in Illinois, Contra Costa College in California, Parkland College in Illinois, Metropolitan Community College in Nebraska, Sandhills Community College in North Carolina, North Dakota State College of Science, and El Camino College in California.
Donovan Ringo joins Auto Care Association
The Auto Care Association announced the addition of Donovan Ringo as director of state affairs and grassroots. In his new role, Ringo will lead efforts to elevate industry voices, strengthen member engagement, and ensure public policy reflects the real-world experiences of Auto Care Association members and the automotive aftermarket.
"I'm excited to work alongside members to elevate their stories, strengthen grassroots engagement and help shape policies that create opportunity and long-term growth for our industry," Ringo said.
Jorge Conforme appointed to CAWA board
Jorge Conforme of LKQ Corporation has been appointed to CAWA's board of directors. Conforme serves as director of government affairs at LKQ Corporation, where he leads the state affairs team in protecting LKQ and the alternative parts industry throughout all 50 states.
"I am looking forward to the service of Mr. Conforme and his perspectives regarding our industry," said Wayne Schaack of the Pronto Group and chair of CAWA's board of directors. "We appreciate his willingness to make a commitment to the industry and its trade association out West."
Collision Partners completes first acquisitions
Collision Partners announced it has completed its first two acquisitions: Fantastic Finishes in West Palm Beach, FL, and Chassis Master in Miramar, FL. The collision repair platform aims to build a network of high-quality collision repair centers across the Southeast and beyond.
Earl Johnson IV, CEO of Collision Partners, said the acquisitions represent the beginning of an aggressive growth strategy. "We're looking for shops that share our commitment to quality repairs and customer service," Johnson said.
Russ Swift, founder of Fantastic Finishes, joins Collision Partners as Director of Strategic Operations and as a significant equity partner and long-term builder of the platform. Scott Woodard, a 41-year veteran of the collision-repair industry with extensive OEM and dealership relationships, joins Collision Partners as Vice President of Integrations.
AirPro Diagnostics names new CEO
AirPro Diagnostics announced the appointment of Driaan Du Toit as chief executive officer. Du Toit brings more than 20 years of experience in automotive technology and software development to the role.
"Driaan's deep expertise in automotive technology and his proven track record of scaling technology companies make him the ideal leader for AirPro's next chapter," said Lonnie Margol, chairman of AirPro Diagnostics.
Auto Care Association opens 2026 awards season
The Auto Care Association announced that nominations are now open for its 2026 awards program, which recognizes outstanding contributions to the automotive aftermarket industry. The deadline for nominations is Feb. 13, 2026.
Awards categories include the Auto Care Association Impact Award, the Women in Auto Care Leadership Award, and the Young Auto Care Network Group (YANG) Future Auto Care Leader Award. Winners will be recognized during Auto Care Connect, May 11-14, 2026, in Atlanta.
SEMA Hall of Fame nominations open
The Specialty Equipment Market Association is accepting nominations for its 2026 SEMA Hall of Fame class through March 13, 2026. The Hall of Fame honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the automotive specialty equipment industry.
"The SEMA Hall of Fame represents the highest honor our industry can bestow," said Joe Escobar, SEMA director of councils and networks. "We encourage nominations of individuals whose innovations, leadership, and dedication have shaped our industry."
SEMA mourns Rep. Doug LaMalfa
SEMA issued a statement mourning the passing of Rep. Doug LaMalfa (R-Calif.), who died Jan. 6, 2026, at age 65. LaMalfa represented California's 1st Congressional District and was a longtime supporter of the automotive aftermarket industry.
"Congressman LaMalfa was a true champion of the automotive enthusiast community and the specialty equipment industry," said Mike Spagnola, SEMA president and CEO. "His advocacy for the RPM Act and his support for small businesses made a lasting impact on our industry. Our thoughts are with his family and staff during this difficult time."
University of the Aftermarket Foundation to award record scholarships
The University of the Aftermarket Foundation announced it will award a record amount in automotive, heavy-duty, and tire industry scholarships for the 2026-27 academic year. Hundreds of scholarships totaling more than $900,000 will be available to students enrolled in four-year and two-year colleges as well as ASE/NATEF-certified automotive, collision, and heavy-duty/diesel post-secondary programs. The application deadline is March 31, 2026.
"The UAF scholarship program will have another record year in 2026," said Mike Buzzard, trustee and chairman of the UAF scholarship committee. "We will be awarding more scholarship funds than ever so the recipients can get the education and training they need to begin a successful automotive or heavy-duty career."
ASE opens winter registration
The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence announced that the winter registration period for certification testing is now open. Those who register by the March 31 deadline will have 90 days to schedule an appointment to take their selected ASE certification tests.
ASE offers three certification options: in-person testing at more than 450 Prometric test centers, ProProctor remote testing for recertification, and the ASE Renewal App for those with valid automobile certifications (A1-A9).
ASE Education Foundation hosts scholarship webinar
The ASE Education Foundation hosted a free webinar Jan. 14 titled "Automotive Scholarships Update" to share available scholarship opportunities with instructors, employers, parents, and students enrolled in ASE-accredited programs. Representatives from the ASE Education Foundation and industry panelists provided an update on automotive scholarships available for the 2026-27 academic year. Those who registered can view a recording of the session and receive a certificate of attendance.
Jeff Wyler Automotive acquires Midwestern Auto Group
The Jeff Wyler Automotive Family announced it has completed its acquisition of Midwestern Auto Group, a $500 million transaction that adds 14 luxury automotive franchises across Ohio. The acquisition was facilitated by The Dave Cantin Group.
"This acquisition represents a significant milestone in our growth strategy," said David Wyler, president of the Jeff Wyler Automotive Family. Dave Cantin, founder and CEO of The Dave Cantin Group, and Mark Brentlinger, executive vice president, advised on the transaction.
Metro Auto Body announces OEM certifications
Metro Auto Body of Corona, Queens, announced it has earned certifications from multiple original equipment manufacturers, including Honda, Acura, Nissan, Infiniti, Hyundai, Kia, and Ford. The shop also holds I-CAR Gold Class designation.
