|
Guest Speakers
|
 |
Becky Berube
President, United Catalyst Corporation
With more than 20 years' experience in converter recycling and precious metals management, Becky Berube serves as the president of United Catalyst Corporation; prior to this, Becky served as North American commercial manager for Umicore Precious Metals Refining.
Becky has been able to educate recyclers from around the globe on converter recycling at the annual ARA convention, affiliate chapter meetings, and the 2012 CARS show in England.
Becky can be contacted at Berube@unitedcatalystcorporation.com.
|
|
 |
D.J. Harrington, CSP
Phone Logic
D.J. Harrington, CSP, is a bestselling author and the President of Phone Logic, Inc., an international training company based in Atlanta, Georgia. D.J. serves as a consultant and trainer to over 1,000 privately owned businesses throughout the country, training personnel at all levels of the company. Known as the "Doctor" to some and the "Car-Diologist" to others, he has presented well over 2,000 programs globally. He has had a blessed life and been awarded the prestigious Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) designation by the National Speakers Association. He attributes much of his success to his experiences as a graduate of Saint Leo University.
D.J. combines his knowledge, high energy, and humor in a thought provoking, fun, interactive learning environment. He leaves his audience with practical advice and methods to succeed. His years as a sales trainer and motivational speaker in a variety of industries has provided D.J. with an outstanding background, which he brings to every clinic and seminar. D.J. can give you a "tune-up" or a "complete overhaul."
"52 weeks a year, we are as close as your telephone." Visit DJSays.com to order his bestselling books, Your Prescription for Life and the NEW Mastering the Art of Success with Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen as well as other informative material.
Phone: 800-352-5252
Email: DJ@DJSays.com
|
|
 |
Edward Salamy
Executive Director, Automotive Body Parts Association (ABPA)
Edward Salamy is the executive director of Automotive Body Parts Association (ABPA). ABPA is made up of more than 175 members occupying more than 400 separate collision parts distribution, bumper sales, and recycling facilities, as well as manufacturing plants. Collectively, the ABPA membership is responsible for distributing more than 75 percent of independently produced aftermarket collision replacement parts sold to the collision repair trade.
Edward has more than 18 years of experience in the alternative parts supply channel, and has served the past nine years as the director of industry relations for KSI Trading Corp. Prior to that, Edward was the Wholesale Accounts Manager for Veng USA.
|
|
 |
Erik Peterson
Owner, Spartan Autoworx
Erik Peterson is the owner of Spartan Autoworx in St. Charles, Missouri. He opened his indoor recycling yard two years ago, where he uses the Checkmate inventory management system. Erik is a "youngster" with only five years in the recycling industry; yet, he has embraced technology with the power of youth! Erik has a process in place where every vehicle that comes in is ran through the Core Pricing program. Decisions are made right away if a part will go into inventory and if it will have a core charge set at that time, or if the part will go right into a core bin for one of the core buyers. Before Erik had the Core Pricing and Coremate programs, he was scrapping a lot of valuable parts without knowing it. At this time, he has Core Pricing on all of his computers and has the app on his iPhones. Erik says that this makes vehicle decision buying a lot easier when he knows the value of the cores before he bids on a vehicle!
|
|
 |
Gene Kozash
Regional Collision Center Director, Berkshire Hathaway Automotive
Gene Kozash works directly with 32 collision centers from California to Florida with sales exceeding 200 million. Since joining Berkshire Hathaway Automotive, he has directed businesses at facility levels including a startup and a million dollar per month location.
Gene joined Berkshire Hathaway Automotive 6 years ago as the Body Shop Director at Camelback Toyota in Phoenix, Arizona, and then on to Grapevine Ford Lincoln in Grapevine, Texas. Prior to that, he was the Body Shop Director with the Penske Auto Group in Warwick, Rhode Island, and also the Koon's Auto Group in Manassas, Virginia. With his team, he has achieved several accomplishments over the years in record sales and growth, while earning both the Winner's Circle Award and Shop of the Year Award at each location.
Since being promoted to his current role as Regional Director, Gene has had the opportunity to utilize his 31 years in the collision industry by leading, coaching, and inspiring his teammates to perform at their highest level in areas of sales, production, operations, and customer service. He brings a wealth of industry knowledge coupled with a unique style of energy and enthusiasm that he shares with his team and managers, all while encouraging them to perform individually each day both personally and professionally.
Gene is currently based in Dallas, Texas, where he lives with his wife Dona, son Gene, and daughter Brigette. As an avid runner, he enjoys running marathons throughout the country. He continues to bear a passion for the collision industry, leading with courage, clarity, and fearlessness each day.
|
|
 |
Gina Swann
Customer Support Center Manager, Phoenix Automotive Cores
Gina Swann is the Online Department Manager for Phoenix Automotive Cores. She runs the Online Purchasing department for automobile parts, and has been with the company for over five years.
Prior to Phoenix Cores, Gina was an Online Buyer for Rebuilders Automotive Supply, where she purchased automobile parts for the company using web-based programs to build and maintain long-term relationships with customers.
|
|
 |
Grady Nance
Sales and Operations, AVP, Property Damage Appraisers, Inc.
Grady has over 16 years of extensive experience in the material physical damage arena, both in the insurance and collision repair areas. He has held various technical and operational leadership positions with Nationwide Insurance, and most recently was in management for Gerber Collision Repair. Grady is I-Car Platinum Certified. Prior to entering the material physical damage industry, Grady served in law enforcement for 13 years, and rose to the rank of Colonel. Grady holds an Associate's Degree in Religion from Liberty University.
Grady is originally from Winston-Salem, North Carolina, where he lived until 2009 until his promotion and relocation to Dublin, Ohio. Grady and his wife, Melissa, have four children, and now a son-in-law. During leisure times, Grady enjoys spending time with family and friends, biking, camping and traveling.
|
|
 |
Jeff Farris
Drivetrain Specialist, Phoenix Automotive Cores
Jeff Farris oversees the engine core line for Phoenix Automotive Cores. His passion for and knowledge of automotive engines is a perfect fit for his key position at Phoenix Automotive Cores. His experience and love of automobile restoration began at an early age. Jeff and his father restored classic vehicles and built custom kit cars as a hobby. This experience gives him a love of automobiles and all things related. Jeff has applied that passion to the automotive core supplier industry and to educating automotive recyclers to build long-lasting relationships based on an open and trusting friendship. His experience in public relations and public speaking provides Jeff with a natural, down to earth appeal.
|
|
 |
Jim McKinney
Owner, EZ Route
Jim McKinney is the Owner of EZ-Route and the General Manager of Milliron Auto Parts. He has over 25 years of in the automotive industry, starting in his father's repair shop as a mechanic. Jim got his start in the recycling industry as a dismantler at Milliron Auto Parts and worked through the ranks becoming a GM for Greenleaf of Ohio. Jim created EZ-Route and other innovative solutions for recyclers. EZ-Route is a tool to manage the delivery business within your salvage yard business, and it integrates with Checkmate.
|
|
 |
Jim Smith
President, JSC Group
Jim has worked in the aftermarket collision parts distribution industry for 15 years. His job functions during that time have included Operations Manager, Sales & Marketing Manager, Regional Manager, Industry Relations Manager, ISO Management Rep, LKQ's AQRP Development Manager, and most recently, President of his own consulting firm for the past 4 years. Jim has served, and continues to serve, on a number of industry boards including ABPA, CAPA, OVAAA, and 8 different technical committees for the NSF Automotive Parts Certification Program. He also served as Technical Committee Chairman for the development of the NSF Distributor Certification Program.
Besides his insurance program and certification experience, Jim brings the experience of working for a nationally-known distributor as it transitioned its business culture from an aftermarket collision parts distributor to becoming a full line automotive parts distributor.
|
|
 |
Linda Gravett, Ph.D., CEQC, SPHR
Senior Partner, Gravett and Associates
Dr. Linda Gravett, an industrial psychologist, is a business advisor, author, organizational development consultant, and certified Emotional Intelligence coach who has partnered with organizations such as Voith, The Kleingers Group, Paycor, and Best Upon Request over the past 25 years, helping them leverage the talents of a diverse workforce to ensure success through periods of growth and change.
Linda is the founder and senior partner of Gravett and Associates, an international Organizational Development consulting firm headquartered in Cincinnati, and the CEO of its subsidiary Just the Basics, Inc., which provides Human Resource Management services for nonprofits and small businesses. She is the author or co-author of books on generational differences, Emotional Intelligence, entrepreneurship, business ethics, and learning agility. Linda is a national speaker for professional organizations and conferences on all of these topics.
Linda has a Ph.D. in Industrial Psychology, an MA in Labor and Employment Relations, and a Bachelor's in Accounting. She is certified in Myers-Briggs and the EQ-i®, and is also a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR). Linda has lived and worked in Japan, Canada, and Mexico, and brings a multi-cultural perspective to her work and life.
|
|
 |
Michael Tate
Owner, Mississippi Truck Dismantlers
Michael Tate is the owner of Mississippi Truck Dismantler's in Flowood, Mississippi. As a youngster, Michael would travel all over the south with his dad to buy cars for his yard. As the owner of Mississippi Truck for 19 years, Michael has made a lot of changes in his yard and understands that technology plays a big part in today's recycling world. Mississippi Truck is a PL2 yard that has been on Car-Part.com since 2004. Michael was one of the first users to sign up for Car-Part Gold, Core Pricing and Coremate.
Mississippi Truck processes every vehicle through the Core Pricing program before it is even purchased. After purchase, he runs the Core Pricing program using the VIN to see what he wants to put in the core bins at time of dismantling. He also uses this to put core prices on parts he is putting into inventory. Michael told us, "I was wondering how other yards were paying more at the auctions than I was. I realized that they were scanning the vehicles for cores before bidding. Core Pricing has changed the way I buy trucks at auction and off of the street."
|
|
 |
Mike Kunkel
President, Profit Team Consulting (formerly Counts Consulting)
Mike has 35 years' experience in the automotive industry, starting at his family's new auto parts store, machine shop, and paint and body equipment business. Mike partnered with Bill Stevens to purchase Counts Consulting after a 20-year career as general manager of American Auto Salvage in Fort Worth, Texas. Mike is also the immediate past president and one of the founding fathers of TEAM PRP. He has been a featured speaker at multiple state association meetings along with URG and many other industry events. Mike is also the past chair of the Used Parts Committee at the Collision Industry Council.
Mike is a process expert. He has a history of streamlining processes and maximizing the revenues per employee. Areas looked at include parts inventoried, parts sold, and cost to pull and sell a part.
Buying is the most important department of a successful recycler. Mike uses proven formulas to measure your historical data to build a growth strategy that will meet a profit target.
Mike led a sales team that brokered 37% of their total sales. He knows the best ways outsource parts profitably.
Whether you are struggling to make money or want to profitably grow your business, Mike Kunkel will deliver results for you!
|
|
 |
Mike Dolabi
President, National Autobody Parts Warehouse, Inc.
Mike Dolabi is living the American Dream!
In 1977, at the age of 16 and with the urging of his parents, Mike entered the United States from his native land of Iran in hopes of a better education. Shortly after arriving in the United States, just months before war broke out in Iran, Mike found himself alone in the land of opportunity without support of family and few friends.
In a country built on a belief in one another, a school counselor saw Mike's potential and became his guardian and support system. Following high school graduation in 1979, Mike attended Paris (Texas) Junior College and the University of Texas in Arlington, graduating with a degree in Electrical Engineering.
Although the initial years involved chaos both in the United States and Iran (the Iranian revolution followed by the Iranian hostage crisis), Mike's belief in the American dream of success built on hard work, his tenacity, and his strong work ethic prevailed and Mike and his wife Sunny opened National Autobody Parts Warehouse in 1993, consisting of 12 pieces of inventory, a rolodex of customers, and a Toyota pickup.
Starting from ZERO, Mike and Sunny have applied honesty, hard work, and courage and created one of the United States' premiere aftermarket parts distribution facilities.
Today, National Autobody Parts Warehouse, located in Grand Prairie, TX, is a modern, 150,000 sq. foot, ISO 9001, NSF Distributor certified, and CAPA certified autobody parts warehouse servicing all of Texas and shipping parts throughout the United States. Having undergone two expansions since 1994, National Autobody Parts Warehouse has a satellite location in Austin, TX, and employee 45 individuals - all focused on the best of quality and exceptional customer service.
Mike Dolabi's belief in the American Dream and his commitment to exceptional quality and customer service are the foundations of success. Here's to an extraordinary example of bringing the American Dream to life: Mike Dolabi, president of National Autobody Parts Warehouse.
|
|
 |
Mike Swift
First Vice President, Automotive Recyclers Association
Co-Owner, Swift's Trails End Auto and Truck Salvage
Mike Swift is a third-generation auto recycler. Mike worked in the family business at Swift's Auto Salvage from 1979-1999. In December 1999, he purchased Trail's End Auto and Truck Salvage in Des Moines, Iowa. Trails End and Swift's Auto Salvage merged in 2015, and Mike's brother, Steve Swift, is now his partner in Swift's Trails End Auto Salvage. Mike's mother Gretchen Swift, sister Susan Fidler, and son Sam Swift also work for the business.
Mike Swift has been involved with the Iowa Auto Recyclers since 2005. He was the president of the IAR from 2008-2010, and is still a current board member of IAR and a current chair of the IAR Legislative Committee. Mike is the Automotive Recyclers Association Past Regional Director of Region 7, and was the Regional Director from 2009-2011. He joined the ARA EC, and in 2015/2016 he will become the third person from Iowa to be the ARA President in Charlotte.
Mike has been married to his wife Tracy for 33 years. They have two children: son Sam Swift, and daughter Mallory Swift-Henke. Mallory is married to Troy Henke, and together have a daughter, Kalli Henke.
|
|
 |
Nick Scheid
LJS & Associate, LLC
Nicholas has been involved in the "alternative" crash parts business for 30+ years, starting out originally in the remanufacturing and reconditioning of OEM plastic production parts, used for service parts and distribution to the aftermarket supply chain. Additionally, during his time in the industry, he has owned and operated a Detroit-based distribution center, a steel and plastic bumper recycling facility, and a new plastic parts manufacturing business.
Recently, Nicholas has started his own consulting business dedicated to help aftermarket parts importers and distributors navigate the challenges of inventory management. It can be virtually impossible for a parts vendor to fully grasp the multitude of manufacturers, quality, and availability with in the aftermarket supply channel; however, with his extensive experience as a manufacture specialist, Nick can help any parts supplier build a high-quality, robust inventory.
Previously, Nick was with Cornerstone Auto Parts and his primary responsibility was to provide a domestic, "real time" presence for Auto Parts Industrials, a Taiwanese aftermarket manufacturer. As a leading manufacturer of high quality alternative parts, he works with distributors to build a reliable supply channel and educate the market on the differences between manufacturers, parts, production, and the promotion of certified parts and distributors.
Nicholas recently concluded a 9-year term on the Board of Directors of the Automotive Body Parts Association (ABPA), and was just selected to join the CAPA Technical Committee; this is his second appointment in the last 12 years. Additionally, he is a regular participant in various industry events such as CIC, NACE, SEMA, and AAPEX.
|
|
 |
Pete Tagliapietra
NuGen IT Inc.
Pete Tagliapietra, Co Chairman at NuGen IT, brings more than thirty years of automotive aftermarket industry experience to his company and business partners. His knowledge base and insight into the various industry market segments that NuGen IT serves come from his years of employment in collision repair, property, and casualty insurance and with an automotive estimating system provider. Throughout his career, Pete has and remains active in several industry associations including I-CAR, CIECA, CIC and CCIF.
His ten plus years of collision repair experience came first hand as a painter and later as a manager of high production collision repair shops. Pete's professional experience also includes eight years as a physical damage adjuster and Director of Auto Claims, where he also worked actively with the NAII.
As the founder of NuGen IT, Pete's responsibilities include identifying the long term vision for the company, overseeing the strategic planning, and participating in the design and launch of new technologies for the collision repair and insurance industries.
|
|
 |
Philippe Clermont
Owner and Co-Founder of SolexD Inc., Creator of Power-DB
With 15 years of experience as an IT professional for a major auto recycler, Philippe helped push the way IT was used in a recycling facility. He went through multiple acquisitions, system/data integration, and a lot of custom software to optimize business performances.
Power-DB:
Now, for the past 3 years, he and his co-founder have been working on a product called Power-DB to give auto recyclers of any size a Business Intelligence (BI) layer on top of their yard management system. Power-DB helps owners and staff analyze the ever-growing amount of data with real time information, notification, and automation on any device and from anywhere for immediate answers, awareness, and control.
|
|
 |
Robert William Frayer Jr., P.E.
Director Automotive Parts Certification, NSF International
Robert William Frayer Jr., P.E. holds the position of Director Automotive Parts Certification at NSF International. Mr. Frayer has over 30 years of experience in managing automotive programs and laboratory operations, as well as research and development. His work focuses on managing the growth of the NSF Certified aftermarket automotive parts program.
Mr. Frayer holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, a Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Michigan. He has extensive experience in physical, materials, and metrology test operations. He has the proven ability to create world-class research and testing facilities and the management of automotive-related programs.
Prior to joining NSF International, Mr. Frayer worked as a Research and Development Director for a major international automotive engineering services company. Under his direction, 41 patents were filed (15 with Robert as the inventor or co-inventor) and 20 technical papers were coordinated for presentation and publication, 4 of which he was the author or co-author.
Mr. Frayer is a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE), and the Automotive Body Parts Association (ABPA).
|
|
 |
Roger Cada
Roger has forty-six years of experience in the Automobile Industry. He started his career by attending GM's Technical School where he completed extensive training in auto body and mechanical repair techniques. After graduation he worked at auto dealers and independent repair facilities becoming an accomplished technician in collision repair. During his fifteen years as a technician he also managed two successful automotive repair facilities.
Roger began his career in 1984 with State Farm Mutual Ins. in the Chicago area as an Estimator. He held positions as an Estimatics Trainer and Supervisor prior to being invited to come to State Farm's corporate office in 1991 to develop and author curriculum to teach the company's estimators and leadership. The official training center was launched in 1992. He educated State Farm employees, shop managers and owners for the next 24 years integrating the latest technology and build structures in the Automotive Industry.
The High Tech Tool Box was also built and developed at State Farm Ins. from Roger's vision for on line video training. Roger acted as a video host and producer of the instructional videos.
Roger is recently retired from State Farm Ins. and continues to offer training and consulting to the Automotive Industry.
|
|
Sarah Barry
KHBOffice LTD
Sarah Barry graduated from Ball State University with an Accounting degree many moons ago. Throughout the years, she has experienced the trials and tribulations of working for CPA firms, large corporations, small-medium size corporations, non-profit organizations, and even self-employment. During these experiences, she had the opportunity to try many different types of accounting software. She stumbled onto QuickBooks and thought, "Wow, this program has a lot of bells and whistles. I think I want to learn more about it." Little did she know that several years later she would be a Proadvisor teamed up with KHBOffice, one of QuickBooks' top-rated resellers and Proadvisor programs. That was over three years ago, and she has enjoyed every minute. She gets to work with an array of business industries and sizes, in local and international locations, and with beginners to advanced users. Every day brings something new. She is excited to share some QuickBooks tips and help with any QuickBooks questions.
|
|
 |
Thomas Delk
Collision Manager, Hubler Collision Center
Thomas Delk's professional career has covered many areas of the collision repair industry. Thomas has over 20 years of experience as a metal technician, refinish technician, and structural technician. He has worked as an estimator, production manager, shop owner, shop manager, and general manager. Thomas is an ASE Master Technician and is certified as an I-CAR Gold Class Professional, I-CAR Platinum Professional, and I-CAR Master Instructor. Thomas was a Secondary Vocational Instructor at Walker Career Center in Indianapolis, Indiana, and a NACE presenter at Atlanta and Las Vegas. Thomas has also been a consultant for layout and design in the collision industry, and process management for collision production management utilizing "lean" principles.
|
|
Car-Part Team
|
 |
Jeff Schroder
CEO
Kentucky
Jeff Schroder is the founding CEO of Car-Part.com. Under Jeff's leadership, Car-Part.com went live in 1998 and revolutionized the purchasing of recycled parts. Car-Part's next innovation was SmartVin, a technology that decodes VINs directly to recycled part numbers. SmartVin powers an integrated workflow that enables recyclers to buy salvage vehicles, manage their business, and sell parts. Car-Part Pro is our newest innovation, providing an electronic marketplace for insurers and professional repairers including real time delivery information, real time supply chain part availability, and recycler and aftermarket certifications. Jeff has an M.S. in Computer Engineering from Rutgers University. |
|
 |
Roger Schroder
VP of Sales and Support
Kentucky
Roger Schroder is a co-founder of Car-Part.com and is currently the Vice President of Sales and Support which includes sales, on-site and phone training, and technical support. Roger is a 25-year veteran of the auto recycling industry and is co-owner of Foreign Auto Salvage in Ft. Wright, Kentucky. He was the manager of Foreign Auto Salvage for many years and continues to serve as a senior officer and board member.
Roger received a bachelor's degree from Thomas More College with a double major in Business Administration and Accounting. He spent 10 years as a special agent with the Treasury Department. Roger is currently a board member of the Ft. Wright Business Association. He has also been recognized as an Honorary Colonel by the Kentucky State Police Department.
|
|
 |
Alan Chaney
Training Specialist
Texas
Alan Chaney started at Fast Parts in 2001 as an on-site trainer. While working, he has traveled to more than 350 yards in 47 states! For the past few years, he has also been training recyclers on Cart-Part.com products and helping Fast Parts customers upgrade to Checkmate. When he's not at a yard, Alan primarily trains Checkmate customers from his home in Austin, TX.
Prior to joining Car-Part, Alan and his father ran a small yard in Tennessee. In 1997, they purchased the Fast Parts system, and Alan has been hooked on computerized inventory systems and networks ever since! After selling the business in 1999, he started an inventory service with users of different systems. Having formed a partnership with Fast Parts, he sold and installed Fast Parts systems. Later, he started working exclusively with Fast Parts in Austin.
Alan enjoys working with people who are new to the industry or to technology. He is able to help users get the most from their inventory software. When he's not working, Alan enjoys camping, boating, and professional sports (including Formula 1 racing).
|
|
 |
Ben Stone
Development & Training Specialist
Florida
During Ben's 12 years with Car-Part.com he has held various positions within the Web Services, Checkmate Support and Training teams, including his current one as Bidmate Development & QA Specialist. His responsibilities include Level 3 escalated support for Bidmate and Partmate, development and testing of new and existing offerings in our Bidmate, Partmate and Crashlnk product suites, as well as providing internal employee training and top-level support on these software offerings.
Prior to Car-Part, Ben spent 7 years with ADP Hollander doing installations and training, and his combined experience within the salvage, communications and computer industries total over 25 years. Ben spends his free time in Florida chasing golf balls, while avoiding alligators. He also enjoys hiking and traveling in Florida and the Carolinas, and attending sporting events in the Tampa Bay area. (Go Rays!)
|
|
 |
boB Clark
Fast Parts Sales
Texas
boB Clark started selling Fast Parts systems in February 1988. Before going to work for Jim Mangham, owner of Fast Parts, boB owned and managed several auto parts stores in Dallas, McAllen, and Corpus Christi. boB also worked for Bishop Core Supply in Dallas.
boB's background in small business gave him the ability to share his knowledge and use the knowledge he picked up from the recyclers to introduce them to the computer age. In the 80s and 90s, Bob would travel around the United States to show the recyclers why they needed a computerized inventory system.
We have come a long way since then and in recent years the industry has seen drastic change, but boB continues to educate recyclers about the steps that Car-Part has been taking to ensure that the independent auto recycler continues to dominate this industry.
|
|
 |
Brian Chambers
Analyst
Kentucky
Brian joined Car-Part.com in June 2010 as a member of the Accounting Department. In his role as an Analyst, he assembles the Crystal Reports contained in Checkmate Workstation that gather information from Checkmate recycler data. In addition to his accounting work, Brian also pulls together the reports used for Executive Roundtables. He is well-versed in the uses of Microsoft Office software – specifically Excel.
He received a Bachelor of Science degree in both Finance and Accounting from the University of Cincinnati. Prior to working at Car-Part.com, Brian spent three years working for Fidelity Investments, specializing in 401(k) plans.
In his spare time, Brian enjoys spending time with his family in Delhi Township (near Cincinnati, OH.)
|
|
 |
Cliff Johnson
Interchange Editor
Minnesota
Cliff Johnson is currently the Interchange Editor at Car-Part.com and has been with Car-Part for 10 years. Cliff's responsibilities include proofing and editing interchange and addressing interchange contributions from our customers. He is also involved with various projects designed to improve our products.
Prior to joining Car-Part.com, Cliff was employed in the auto salvage interchange field for 21 years, working for employers Hollander Publishing, Auto-Info Inc., and URG. Cliff is certified as an ASE Parts Specialist and is I-Car Gold certified in many technologies.
Cliff enjoys working on his cars and motorcycles in his spare time.
|
|
 |
Dan Ruud
Checkmate Product Specialist
Minnesota
Dan Ruud is a Checkmate Product Specialist. He is responsible for testing new enhancements and software changes, acting as a communication point between developers and the support staff, and assisting the support staff by helping them with escalated issues. Dan has also been part of numerous installations and conversions, so he understands what it's like working at yards ranging from a single employee to the largest yards.
Dan started working with Checkmate under ADP ownership 15 years ago as a basic support representative on the Orion product. He switched to Checkmate when they were sold to CCI/Triad and worked his way up to the Lead Support Rep for Checkmate. He worked in that position for a few years, and once Car-Part.com purchased Checkmate, Dan moved to the development and testing side of the product. He continues to assist with escalated issues when needed.
In his free time, Dan plays disc golf in the summer, and skis and snowboards in the winter. He also plays competitive volleyball year-round, playing indoors during the winter and on the sand in the summer. Dan is also a season ticket holder for the Minnesota Vikings.
|
|
 |
Dennis Young
Checkmate Conversion Manager
Minnesota
Dennis Young is the Conversion Manager at Car-Part.com. He and his team are responsible for the data transfer that happens when a recycler converts to Checkmate from another management system. Dennis started his career with Car-Part.com in 2005, installing and supporting upload software for customers. Dennis then became an Escalation Tech for Car-Part.com's Web Services team, He was then promoted to the manager of the Checkmate Support team and later to Conversion Manager. Dennis also assists with software testing. In 2009, Dennis was awarded the Car-Part.com Above and Beyond Award for his outstanding contributions to the company.
Prior to Car-Part.com, Dennis worked for 10 years in a variety of support, coaching, and software testing roles at ADP Hollander. Dennis also served in the U.S. Army for 18 years using and testing Field Artillery Computers, and running weapon ranges.
Away from work, Dennis is an experienced woodworker who crafts unique mugs from exotic woods.
|
|
 |
Eric Robbins
Training Specialist
Illinois
Eric has been with Car-Part since October of 2011. He started on the Web Services team doing Sales and Training. From there, he worked on the Car-Part Pro project in the Midwest. He joined the Checkmate Training Team in September of 2012. Eric travels all over the country training recyclers on how to make Checkmate work for them.
Eric's nearly-twenty years of experience in the salvage industry has covered every position from parts puller to General Manager. He also has experience in the scrap metal industry, which gives him insight to the scrapping and core processes.
When Eric is not working, he enjoys the peaceful environment of a three-teenager household.
|
|
 |
Gegetta Ferris
Senior Web Technician
Tennessee
Gegetta Ferris is a Senior Web Technician at Car-Part.com. Gegetta has been with Car-Part.com for over eleven years, and has been in her current position for over seven. Gegetta's favorite part about her job is being able to help customers solve their problems and make their day at work a little easier! Gegetta has been working with computers for over 20 years. She attended the New England Institute of Technology, and in 2001, she earned her associate's degree in Computer Networking.
When she's not hard at work helping customers, Gegetta is an avid motorcyclist. Next time you're in Tennessee, you might see her flying by on her Harley Davidson! She is also an enthusiastic and accomplished runner, having completed quite a few full marathons and half marathons in the last few years!
|
|
 |
Greg Croka
Training Specialist
Missouri
Greg is part of the Checkmate on-site conversion training team. He assists customers with learning the Checkmate system and incorporating it into their businesses.
Prior to joining the conversion team, Greg was part of the field team promoting the Car-Part Gold product suite across the country.
Greg is also experienced in the aftermarket parts business, having managed both Advance Auto Parts and Auto Zone stores. Greg lives in Central Missouri, near the Kansas City metro area.
|
|
 |
Heidi Manahan
Recycler Web Design Manager
Vermont
Heidi works remotely from Vermont and manages the web design department for Car-Part. A graduate of Thomas More College in Ft. Mitchell, KY, she has bachelor degrees in Computer Science and Psychology. Prior to Car-Part, Heidi ran her own business selling advertising; she designed and published guides, brochures, and various other printed materials; and she did fundraising.
In her spare time, Heidi is actively involved with her 4 kids and family. She maintains a small hobby farm with 3 horses, fundraises for her daughter's NGO Surf Strong, and is an EMT who volunteers for a local ambulance crew.
|
|
 |
JC Chastain
Checkmate Product Manager
Kentucky
JC is the Product Manager for Checkmate and related products including Sales Pro, Order Trakker, Checkmate Workstation, and Real Time Barcoding. JC has been with Car-Part.com for 12 years and has worked in the Checkmate Support and Development groups.
JC has spent 22 years supporting and developing technology solutions for the auto recycling industry. He has worked in the customer support organizations for both ADP Hollander and AutoInfo. Prior to Car-Part.com, he was the Manager of Customer Support and Operations for CCI/Triad.
JC has a bachelor's degree in Psychology and Management from Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. He has co-authored numerous scholarly articles and a book on utilizing technology to teach statistical concepts.
In his spare time, JC is actively involved with his 5 kids (3 teenagers!). He is a Boy Scout commissioner, coordinates community blood drives and is a founding member of "Kids and Families with Diabetes".
|
|
 |
Jeff Wissman
Bidmate & Partmate Product Manager
Kentucky
Jeff Wissman is the Product Manager for Bidmate and Partmate. He oversees the design and development of new software and enhancements, and coordinates the Level 3 Customer Support for Bidmate and Partmate. He joined the Car-Part team in February of 2013. Prior to coming to Car-Part, Jeff worked as a Development Manager with R.L. Polk and Company, supporting the Ford, General Motors, and Asian Import accounts.
Jeff possesses 25 years of software development experience in both mainframe and client-server environments.
Jeff is a former NCAA College Baseball player, and still shares the NCAA baseball record for most triples in a game (3). That record has been tied many times, but no one has hit 4 yet! When the office is closed, Jeff enjoys golfing and attending sporting events.
|
|
 |
Jeff Budd
Checkmate Development
Illinois
Jeff is one of the many "Jeffs" that work at Car-Part. Jeff works with our Checkmate Development team and our Checkmate Training/Conversions team. He works with the support techs to troubleshoot issues, and he helps design and implement new software. His latest projects include Checkmate Workstation products including Dashboard, Order Trakker, Checkmate Listing Manager for eBay, Terminal, Sale Pro, and Imaging.
Jeff has been with Car-Part for 5 years. Jeff started as a Web Support Tech and has worked his way into Development. After graduating college in 2005, he started supporting a multi-yard location, and he was a support tech for Illinois DCFS and an independent IT consultant.
In Jeff's free time, when he is not working on his house, he enjoys playing on his tractor and cooking out with friends and family. He also likes attending Cardinal baseball games and going to dirt track races (not enough, though!).
|
|
 |
Jeff Mastervich
Checkmate & Car-Part sales
Illinois
Jeff is one of the Checkmate and Car-Part sales representatives covering the western portion of the United States. Jeff has been with Car-Part.com for 11 years, and during this time, he has worked in the Checkmate support group and sales.
Jeff has been involved in the automotive recycling industry for over 25 years. He began as a field installer and graduated to managing the support group while with AutoInfo. He has also served as general manager for several recycling facilities during this time.
Jeff enjoys all Pittsburg-related sports and golf in his spare time.
|
|
 |
Jim Bussing
Senior Checkmate Technician
Nebraska
Jim joined Car-Part in February 2012. Starting as a Checkmate Tech, he quickly moved up to an Escalated Tech where he is well versed in Dashboard, Order Trakker, Checkmate Listing Manager for eBay, and Imaging.
Jim has most recently taken on the role of being a primary trainer for newcomers to the Checkmate support team. Jim comes from an extensive background with over 17 years in the automotive recycling industry, working in both technical support roles and management.
In his spare time, Jim enjoys riding his Harley, working on his woodworking projects, and spending time with his children and grandchildren.
|
|
 |
Joanna Cohen
Interchange Content Manager
Kentucky
Joanna is the Interchange Content Manager at Car-Part.com. She and her team take in, test, and release interchange, VIN, OE and aftermarket data. They compile the SmartVin and Interchange data released to all Car-Part products, and they manage the monthly release of OE data to CrashLink. They are constantly working to streamline the release process to get the data to customers as fast as possible.
Joanna grew up around the recycling industry. As a kid, she spent summers doing odd jobs for her dad at Foreign Auto Salvage. She has fond memories of moving Foreign Auto's inventory into the "new" warehouse with her cousins. During college, she learned how to use Checkmate to help with accounting and started evaluating auctions using Bidmate. Upon graduating, she transitioned over to the Car-Part.com team, researching and writing mercury switch location information (Mercury Interchange), building websites, and testing Bidmate.
When she's not working, you'll find Joanna outside: motorcycling, mountain biking, skiing, hiking, or otherwise adventuring!
|
|
 |
Joe Gagliardo
Human Resources
Kentucky
Joe has been a Human Resources practitioner for most of his career in both the public and private sectors. His experiences include labor and contract negotiations; a working knowledge of the FMLA, ADA and other federal legislation; policy writing; talent acquisition and selection; dispute and grievance resolution; and the provision of general HR services. Joe holds degrees from Thomas More College and the University of Cincinnati and is currently is responsible for recruitment and selection at Car-Part.com.
|
|
 |
Jordan Palmer
Training Specialist
Pennsylvania
Jordan Palmer is part of the Checkmate on-site conversion training team. He assists customers with learning the Checkmate system and incorporating it into their business.
Jordan grew up in the salvage industry. He worked at his family's salvage yard, County Recovery Service in Wysox, Pennsylvania, working in all aspects of the business. After graduating high school in 2004, Jordan took on a more serious role at County Recovery Service while he earned his associate's degree in Business Administration from Lackawanna College.
In 2011, he joined the Checkmate team at Car-Part.com, and he now uses his lifelong experience in the salvage industry to help other recyclers adapt Checkmate to fit their unique businesses.
In Jordan's spare time, he is a member of multiple local volunteer fire departments. He also enjoys attending Penn State football games.
|
|
 |
Joseph Heiman
Training Specialist
Missouri
Joseph Heiman has over 20 years' experience in the automotive recycling industry, working for a family-run yard (Al's Foreign Auto Salvage and Sales). Joseph has worked in all facets of the industry. He started as a dismantler for his father while he was in high school, and he worked his way through college at the University of St. Louis, earning a Marketing degree in 2001. Joe later became the bookkeeper and then salesman, before he became the President at Al's Foreign Auto Salvage and Sales. He started his first yard at the age of 19 and ran the yard for 9 years before selling and purchasing his family business in 2006.
While working for Al's Foreign, Joseph served on the Board of Directors of the Missouri Auto and Truck Recyclers Association for 8 years. He was also an active member of a Car-Part.com Recycler Executive Roundtable Group.
Joseph closed his yard in the beginning of 2014, and is now working for Car-Part.com as a Checkmate Conversion Trainer.
|
|
 |
Katherine Leonard
Web Graphic Designer
Kentucky
Katherine Leonard has been designing websites professionally (and as a hobby) for almost 20 years. A graduate of Kentucky's community college system and Eastern Kentucky University, she holds degrees in Graphic Design and Web Development. In the last decade, she has worked in digital marketing, web design, and mobile application development at companies ranging in size from 20 employees to over 100,000. Preferring the former environment, Katherine decided to focus her efforts on helping small businesses succeed. This path led her to Car-Part and the thousands of small, family-owned businesses in the automotive recycling industry.
When she's not elbows-deep in website code, Katherine can be found playing video games, making handmade jewelry, or engaging in any number of other geeky and/or creative pursuits. Her two cats aren't as helpful with her hobbies as they think they are.
|
|
 |
Leeann Gonsoulin
Checkmate Support
Texas
Leeann is in Checkmate Support and works with other related products, including Sales Pro, Order Trakker, Checkmate Workstation, Real Time Barcoding, QuickBooks integration, and UPS integration. Leeann has been with Car-Part.com for 14 years.
Before working with Car-Part, Leeann spent 15 years in the medical field. For 12 of those years, she worked as a Certified Medical Assistant.
Leeann also spent 12 years as a committee chair for both the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts in Austin, TX.
|
|
 |
Lori Handke
Account Specialist
Iowa
Lori Handke joined Car-Part.com in May of 2012 as a Sales and Customer Account Specialist, bringing over 21 years of sales expertise with her. She is responsible for configuring recyclers for Car-Part Pro. In addition to Car-Part Pro configurations, Lori builds brokering relations with automotive recyclers and industry vendors.
Prior to her Car-Part.com employment, Lori spent 15 years with The Locator Magazine. Her job duties consisted of sales supervisor, sales, training new employees, assisting in goal setting, and attending industry trade shows.
Lori and her husband, Craig, are very involved in civic events and activities for the town of Anthon, Iowa, and also in the school activities of their son, Cy. Lori is a volunteer EMR and current Treasurer for Anthon Ambulance squad.
In her free time, Lori enjoys cycling, camping and spending time with family and friends. For the past 6 years, she has participated in Ragbrai, cycling across the state of Iowa. Lori can also be found at her son Cy's sporting events, cheering on him and his team.
|
|
 |
Lynette Lems
Direct Salvage Product Manager
Iowa
Lynette Lems is part of our Car-Part Salvage team. Her responsibilities cover all areas of Car-Part Salvage. She works with the buyers, sellers, and programmers striving to put Car-Part Salvage at the top of all recyclers' "Favorites" list. Lynette has been employed with Car-Part.com for 3 years, and prior to her Car-Part Salvage role, she worked and trained on Checkmate, Dashboard, Imaging, Order Trakker, Checkmate Listing Manager for eBay, Car-Part Reports, Partmate, Bidmate, Car-Part Pro, and Web Services.
Prior to her Car-Part employment, Lynette spent 16 years with a salvage yard doing multiple tasks including IT, Web Master, overseeing daily operations, training employees, and marketing.
Lynette enjoys the outdoors, hiking, running, and volleyball. She also enjoys baking and cooking. Any remaining time is spent enjoying her family and organizing local fundraisers.
|
|
 |
Mendi Evans
Training Specialist
Virginia
Mendi is part of our training team specializing in Checkmate products, Web Services, Car-Part Pro, and EMS Pro. Mendi has been with Car-Part.com for two years working with both the training and sales teams, training recycling yards and body and repair shops on Car-Part.com and Car-Part Pro.
Prior to Car-Part.com, Mendi previously worked in the recycling industry for three years. She also has worked in membership sales and event management in the golf industry. Mendi has a bachelor's degree in Psychology and a minor in Business Administration from Mary Baldwin College in Staunton, VA.
Mendi stays busy in her spare time with her husband and two boys, 7 months and 5 years old.
|
|
 |
Mike O'Leary
Executive Director of Industry Relations
Ohio
Michael serves as the Executive Director of Industry Relations and is responsible for managing Car-Part.com relationships with the insurance industry. Michael and his team focus their efforts on demonstrating the value of Car-Part Pro and how our tools can assist the industry in improving their results through the responsible use of high quality recycled parts.
Prior to joining Car-Part.com, Mike was the Vice President of Operations at Innovation Auto in Chicago. He also worked at Travelers Insurance as the Director of Product Development. He spent over 20 years at Nationwide Insurance, where he was instrumental in the development and leadership of the Blue Ribbon Repair Service (Nationwide's DRP) and served as their Field Technical Director in Auto Damage Claims.
|
|
 |
Molly Farler
Training Specialist
Ohio
Molly Farler is a Training Specialist who is focused on Car-Part.com Web Services. In addition to training customers, Molly provides training support to other Car-Part.com employees and is the lead trainer on many new product launches, including Car-Part Pro.
Molly also co-facilitates orientation for new Car-Part.com employees. In addition to her training responsibilities, Molly manages the scheduling process for web training requests. Molly started her career with Car-Part.com in 2004 in the Web Support organization as a Support Tech.
Prior to Car-Part.com, Molly was the Director of Information Technology for Barnaclo Home Loans. She has worked as a part-time faculty member at Miami University, teaching classes in Computer System Analysis. Molly has a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Thomas More College in Kentucky and an associate's degree in Applied Business from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio.
|
|
 |
Sandra Toews
Conversion Coordinator
California
Sandra is the Checkmate Conversion Coordinator at Car-Part.com. She manages the Telnet Checkmate installations and schedules on-site training for Checkmate conversions.
She began working in software support 25 years ago for Triad Systems Corporation, where she started as a Support Tech and then moved into training. Her first training position was teaching customers how to use software designed for the automotive industry. When Triad was later purchased by CCI, Sandra continued to train customers on their service dealer software, and later on, Checkmate. Sandra joined Car-Part.com in 2003 when Car-Part purchased Checkmate. Sandra has been recognized with numerous outstanding achievements and training excellence awards.
Sandra is a graduate of the California State University at Chico with a degree in Management Information Systems. She has worked remotely for the past 20 years from her 25-acre farm in Northern California, where she lives with her husband and three sons. The Toews farm is home to Boer goats, cats, Dutch show rabbits, Serama show chickens, a turtle, a dog, a lamb, and a mule.
|
|
 |
Sonny Gonzales
Training Specialist
California
Angelo (Sonny) Gonzales joined Car-Part.com in 2009 as a Training Specialist, focused on Checkmate. Today, Sonny works with customers across the US and Canada on Checkmate and Car-Part Web Services. Sonny spent 25 years in the auto recycling industry at Central Auto Dismantling in Clovis, California. His experience as a parts puller, delivery driver, counter person, and owner puts Sonny in a unique position to work with other recyclers and continue to share his experience.
Prior to Car-Part.com, Sonny was a music teacher in the local school district for 7 years. His teaching background has helped him to easily transition into a training role with auto recyclers. Sonny has an associate's degree from Monterey Peninsula College, a bachelor's degree in Liberal Arts, and a teaching credential from Fresno State University.
Sonny is also the co-leader of Car-Part's all-employee band, the VW Beetles. Sonny works with the band to make sure their annual concert at the conference is bigger and better than the previous year!
|
|
 |
Sue Cropenbaker
Human Resources Manager
Kentucky
In 2007, Sue became the first member of Car-Part's official HR team. With 20+ years of payroll experience, she played a key role in developing our processes. As we grew to nearly 200 employees, her role quickly evolved and she became an important partner with the business. She helped shape Car-Part's processes in recruiting, retention, and performance management. Sue is now Car-Part's HR Manager and has played a key role in developing the HR Team and its functions such as benefits administration, employee relations, performance management, talent acquisition, and facilities. In 2010, Sue received a Car-Part Above and Beyond Award in recognition of her outstanding achievements, dedication and excellence in performance.
In 2009, Sue obtained her Professional in Human Resources certification from The National Human Resources Certification Institute. She regularly attends HR/legal seminars, and is a member of the National Society for Human Resource Management and ERA's HR Roundtable.
|
|
 |
Theresa Colbert
Sales & Training Specialist
Colorado
Theresa Colbert is an on-the-ground representative for Car-Part.com. She goes into the dismantling yards and helps the customers decide which of the products in the Car-Part suite best fits their needs. Trading Partners, Brokering, Coremate and Core Pricing programs are Theresa's pet projects. With her background in aftermarket and being "on the other side of the counter" at the yard and repair shops, Theresa is a firm believer in Brokering and in the huge value cores have in today's market.
Theresa has been with Car-Part.com for 5 years. Previously, she worked at Nu-Parts Automotive products for 10 years. Prior to Nu-Parts, she was the manager at Winter Auto Japanese Engines in Glendale, Arizona, and at AAA Economy Auto Parts in Phoenix, Arizona. With 23 years of industry experience, she has seen the auto recycling world from almost every point of view. Theresa is on the Pennsylvania association event board, speaks at industry trade shows, and writes a monthly article in The Recyclers Power Source.
When she is at home, she loves to spend time with her family, play with her dogs, cook, and watch football.
|
|
 |
Tim Schneider
Assistant Sales Manager
Washington
Tim Schneider has been working for Car-Part.com for 7 years in Sales, and is now the Assistant Sales Manager leading the West Coast Sales team. In addition to sales, Tim also leads several of Car-Part's Recycler Executive Roundtable groups.
Tim grew up in the wrecking yard business. He and his parents owned QwikParts in San Bernardino, California for 20+ years. After they sold the business 8 years ago, Tim, his wife and three kids moved to Port Angeles, Washington.
When Tim is not traveling up and down the West Coast on sales calls, he coaches his son's select soccer team and plays golf.
|
|
|
|
 |
Questions about our products?
Call Car-Part at (859) 344-1925. You can also reach us via email for sales assistance or general information.
|
