Bethesda, MD — March 11, 2008 — Of the more than 850,000 automotive technicians working in the United States, eighteen outstanding individuals have qualified for the AAIA World Class Technician Award, the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA) announced today. Each of these professional technicians tested and obtained ASE certification in 22 specialty areas during the 2007 test administrated by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

The eighteen World Class Technicians are:
Jason J. Hajek, Algonquin, Ill.; William T. Hambor, Mount Laurel, N.J.; William J. Hart, Gurnee, Ill.; Timothy A. Hassett, Cooper City, Fla.; Paul F. Heschke, Red Wing, Minn.; Louis P. Luchsinger III, Rahway, N.J.; Michael J. Porcelli, Glendale, N.Y.; Teddy A. Rader, Nashville, Tenn.; Dennis A. Ragosa, Surgoinsville, Tenn.; Max H. Thomas, Walnut Creek, Calif.; John I. Titus, Imlay, Mich.; Mark D. Weller, Corona, Calif.; Jack D. Werner, Horizon City, Texas; Charles M. Cloud, Cody, Wyo; Jeffrey S. Bambling, Orlando, Fla.; Andy Fletcher, Seattle, Wash.; Jeffrey R. Hansen, Big Rapids, Mich.; and Raymond J. Shagner, Los Angeles, Calif.

"The AAIA World Class Technician Award is for automotive diagnostic and repair professionals what the Super Bowl is for professional football players," said Kathleen Schmatz, AAIA president and CEO. "Just imagine the knowledge and skills needed by a technician to pass 22 ASE tests. These folks are truly the best of the best and we are proud to be associated with them through our annual recognition in conjunction with ASE."

Since the World Class recognition was established 21 years ago, just 1,723 technicians have been honored. Recipients receive a special certificate, an engraved toolbox plate and an embroidered shoulder insignia. Additionally, their name is perpetually inscribed in an honor book located in the Automotive Hall of Fame in Dearborn, Mich.

About AAIA
AAIA is a Bethesda, Md.-based association whose more than 23,000 member companies and affiliates manufacture, distribute and sell motor vehicle parts, accessories, service, tools, equipment, materials and supplies. Through its membership, AAIA represents more than 100,000 repair shops, parts stores and distribution outlets.

About ASE
Incorporated on June 12, 1972, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence was established as a non-profit organization to help improve the quality of automotive service and repair through the voluntary testing and certification of automotive technicians and parts specialists. Today, there are approximately 400,000 ASE- certified professionals who work in dealerships, independent shops, service stations, collision repair shops, auto parts stores, fleets, machine shops, schools and colleges throughout the country. For more information about ASE, visit the Web site at http://www.ase.com.