Tom Rayk is the Director of Training at AVI. Tom has achieved ASE Master Certified Automotive Technician with L1 Advanced Engine Performance certification, is a master trainer for the Ohio EPA Emissions Program, and holds various OEM and industry supplier certifications. Tom's Clients have included Ford Motor Company, General Motors Corporation, Snap-On Tools, Ohio EPA, American Automobile Association, Cuyahoga County, Cargill Salt, and Cuyahoga Community College. He has also served as a field technician servicing both automotive and heavy-duty trucks. Tom has been instrumental in the development of AVI's award winning curriculum and hands-on training aids.

Brandon has worked as an ASE Master Technician for many years specializing in advanced diagnostics. He is an active member of the Diagnostic Network and Trained By Techs organization. Brandon is an active instructor with WorldPac and CTI and takes care of our students in the U.S and Canada.

Steve Schaeber is the technical editor and manager of service training for MACS, the Mobile Air Climate Systems Association. He’s been in the automotive industry since 1989 and is a graduate of Pennsylvania College of Technology. He's been writing about the mobile air conditioning sector since joining MACS in 2013. Steve provides technical support to MACS members, provides mobile A/C training classes and writes air conditioning related technical content. He is also involved in the greater automotive industry on behalf of MACS members through the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), Human Factors Technical Committee 6 (SAE-HFTC6) and Technology and Maintenance Council of the American Trucking Association (TMC). He volunteers on many SAE Committees (including the Interior Climate Control Service Committee), has sponsored SAE recommended practice documents, and is Vice-Chairman of the SAE Cabin Disinfection Practices Committee.

Josh Avello is an Automotive Body Educator and Business Consultant for Fuzarc. He was professionally introduced to the auto body industry in the late 2000’s. His career has spanned across various positions ranging from the shop floor as a technician on both the body and paint sides, working for equipment sales companies, to transitioning into the continuing education field as a welding certification instructor and other auto body courses. His passion for teaching started as a student tutor at the auto body school he attended and additionally developed into an educator at the college level. Josh has had several opportunities to present various topics of technical and business auto body courses to leading industry companies and events across the country. His passion and experience led him to create his own business, Fuzarc, so he can continue to pass on knowledge and tailor the specific needs to others across the nation without boundaries.

Rick White is a business turnaround and exponential growth expert who helps auto repair shop owners go from struggling to stay open to being recognized as the go-to shops in their market. He helps business owners with average shops transform their shops into the shop of the year in the industry. Currently, Rick is President of 180BIZ, an auto repair shop training and business coaching company proudly serving the independent auto and truck repair shop owner since 2006. He has also owned multiple successful auto repair shops over the years. Rick has taught at some of the biggest conferences in the industry across North America, including classes at AAPEX (NV), VISION (KS), ASTE (NC), BIMRS, ATSE (NY), ASA National, and AASP National. Beyond Associations, he has conducted training classes for WorldPac and BG. He is a contributing editor to Motor Age Magazine and has been published many times over the years for publications like Automotive Management Network, Aftermarket Weekly, Ratchet and Wrench, and Autobody News.

With over 40 years of automotive industry experience, Maylan Newton has literally been there and done that. From shop owner, technician, and service advisor to one of the most renowned industry trainers and speakers in the country. Maylan combines his real-world experience with profit-building takeaways in a humorous and engaging manner that only Maylan can deliver. As the president and CEO of ESi seminars, Maylan travels the country, sharing the keys to being successful in the automotive repair industry in his sold-out classes. Maylan is also the author of The Joy of Hiring, available now on Amazon.com.

Exceptional customer service and cultivating strong relationships is what Kendre is all about. From Social Media Assistant to Senior Campaign Manager, she has held a variety of roles in the marketing industry. With a passion for helping others and a family background in the automotive shop industry, Kendre brings a unique perspective and a wealth of knowledge to the table.

Loretta is a passionate graphic designer with nearly a decade of experience in the marketing industry. With a versatile background including website design, print design, social media marketing, event planning, and more, she excels in creating engaging designs and branding for each of her clients. Her expertise lies in crafting powerful and attractive visuals that are not only unique but also customized to embody the distinctive style of each brand.

Tom Rayk is the Director of Training at AVI. Tom has achieved ASE Master Certified Automotive Technician with L1 Advanced Engine Performance certification, is a master trainer for the Ohio EPA Emissions Program, and holds various OEM and industry supplier certifications. Tom's Clients have included Ford Motor Company, General Motors Corporation, Snap-On Tools, Ohio EPA, American Automobile Association, Cuyahoga County, Cargill Salt, and Cuyahoga Community College. He has also served as a field technician servicing both automotive and heavy-duty trucks. Tom has been instrumental in the development of AVI's award winning curriculum and hands-on training aids.

• ASE Certification(s): ASE Master Technician • Years of Experience: 30+ • Years as an Autotech Instructor: 13 years • Experience in: Advanced engine performance, light diesel, Chrysler powertrain, electrical and chassis master. Viper & Crossfire specialist. • Shop Owner (Yes/No): Yes o If Yes, how many years?: 5

John is an ASE CMAT with L1 and has over 30 years’ experience as a technician and independent shop owner. His background includes both dealer and independent. shops, with numerous vehicle makes under his belt. John is a full line technician, but emphasizes diagnostics, driveability, emissions repairs, and electronics on today’s advanced automobiles. John resides in Pennsylvania, and takes care of our students throughout the Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic states.

Steve Schaeber is the technical editor and manager of service training for MACS, the Mobile Air Climate Systems Association. He’s been in the automotive industry since 1989 and is a graduate of Pennsylvania College of Technology. He's been writing about the mobile air conditioning sector since joining MACS in 2013. Steve provides technical support to MACS members, provides mobile A/C training classes and writes air conditioning related technical content. He is also involved in the greater automotive industry on behalf of MACS members through the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), Human Factors Technical Committee 6 (SAE-HFTC6) and Technology and Maintenance Council of the American Trucking Association (TMC). He volunteers on many SAE Committees (including the Interior Climate Control Service Committee), has sponsored SAE recommended practice documents, and is Vice-Chairman of the SAE Cabin Disinfection Practices Committee.

Benjamin C. Stephens grew up working in his family’s collision repair business, North Star Automotive in Bethlehem PA. After completing college with a degree in Mathematics, Benjamin took over running the North Star. He has 20 years experience running all aspects of a collision repair facility with an emphasized focus on estimating, repair planning, and customer service. Under Benjamin’s guidance North Star obtained multiple OEM certifications including being named 1 of the 67 Nissan’s Certified Collision Legacy Shops in the entire country. Benjamin’s family sold their collision repair facility in late 2021 and he is now part of Matthews Auto Supplies business development team. Matthews Auto Supplies host multiple training events and offers in shop training and assistance to their customers.

Cecil Bullard is one of the top Automotive Business Trainers and Consultants in the Industry. He believes that there is unlimited opportunity and potential in today's shops and that your business should be designed and run to give you the life you desire. He is currently CEO of the Institute. He has trained and mentored thousands of owners, managers and service advisors that want to run the best businesses in the industry and be at the top of their game. He has published over 120 articles and has been a featured speaker at AAPEX, VISION, ATE, AASP, ASTE, and various other conferences throughout the years. Cecil has spent most of his life in the Automotive Service and Repair Industry, held every position and operated multiple successful shops. He now serves as a consultant, trainer and teacher.

P.J. Leslie Head of Business Development PJ has over 13 years of experience in the automotive industry, starting as an oil change technician at a quicklube, then moving into the dealership industry, and was the General Manager of a Ford dealership before moving to Tekmetric. He has over 20 years in sales/business development and is a recognized leader in the automotive industry. As Head of Business Development, he explores organizations and individual businesses for opportunities, represents Tekmetric at conferences and industry events, and presents Tekmetric software solutions to potential customers on an individual basis and in group settings. He also conducts educational training around customer buying experience, sales training, and how to get to "yes" for an extensive list of independent, training, and industry knowledge organizations. He assists all team members as needed to grow Tekmetric to the largest Shop Management Software system. PJ, his wife, son, and 2 dogs all live in Houston, TX where Tekmetric is based.

Tom Rayk is the Director of Training at AVI. Tom has achieved ASE Master Certified Automotive Technician with L1 Advanced Engine Performance certification, is a master trainer for the Ohio EPA Emissions Program, and holds various OEM and industry supplier certifications. Tom's Clients have included Ford Motor Company, General Motors Corporation, Snap-On Tools, Ohio EPA, American Automobile Association, Cuyahoga County, Cargill Salt, and Cuyahoga Community College. He has also served as a field technician servicing both automotive and heavy-duty trucks. Tom has been instrumental in the development of AVI's award winning curriculum and hands-on training aids.

• ASE Certification(s): ASE Master Technician • Years of Experience: 30+ • Years as an Autotech Instructor: 13 years • Experience in: Advanced engine performance, light diesel, Chrysler powertrain, electrical and chassis master. Viper & Crossfire specialist. • Shop Owner (Yes/No): Yes o If Yes, how many years?: 5

John is an ASE CMAT with L1 and has over 30 years’ experience as a technician and independent shop owner. His background includes both dealer and independent. shops, with numerous vehicle makes under his belt. John is a full line technician, but emphasizes diagnostics, drivability, emissions repairs, and electronics on today’s advanced automobiles. John resides in Pennsylvania, and takes care of our students throughout the Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic states.

Pam is an ASE Master Automotive and Medium/HD truck technician, EVT/ASE Certified, MACS 609 Certified, National Safety Council defensive driving certified, FEMA National Incident Management Systems Certification along with being SME Automotive, HD Trainer, Shop Management & Content Development. She has many awards and publications to her credit and resides on many civic organizations committees or boards.

Benjamin C. Stephens grew up working in his family’s collision repair business, North Star Automotive in Bethlehem PA. After completing college with a degree in Mathematics, Benjamin took over running the North Star. He has 20 years experience running all aspects of a collision repair facility with an emphasized focus on estimating, repair planning, and customer service. Under Benjamin’s guidance North Star obtained multiple OEM certifications including being named 1 of the 67 Nissan’s Certified Collision Legacy Shops in the entire country. Benjamin’s family sold their collision repair facility in late 2021 and he is now part of Matthews Auto Supplies business development team. Matthews Auto Supplies host multiple training events and offers in shop training and assistance to their customers.

Matthew J. Zielenbach is the owner/partner of Convenience Collision in Bangor PA which was founded in 2001. Convenience Collision has obtained multiple OEM certifications including brands such as BMW, Volvo, and Porsche. Matthew has a deep understanding of manufacturer repair procedures and all 3 collision repair estimating systems. He has had much success in collecting on insurance short pays through methods such as assignment of proceeds and a customer's right to an appraisal. Matthew has been an expert witness in multiple civil cases involving vehicle damages and the cost of repair.

Cecil Bullard is one of the top Automotive Business Trainers and Consultants in the Industry. He believes that there is unlimited opportunity and potential in today's shops and that your business should be designed and run to give you the life you desire. He is currently CEO of the Institute. He has trained and mentored thousands of owners, managers and service advisors that want to run the best businesses in the industry and be at the top of their game. He has published over 120 articles and has been a featured speaker at AAPEX, VISION, ATE, AASP, ASTE, and various other conferences throughout the years. Cecil has spent most of his life in the Automotive Service and Repair Industry, held every position and operated multiple successful shops. He now serves as a consultant, trainer and teacher.

Rick White is a business turnaround and exponential growth expert who helps auto repair shop owners go from struggling to stay open to being recognized as the go-to shops in their market. He helps business owners with average shops transform their shops into the shop of the year in the industry. Currently, Rick is President of 180BIZ, an auto repair shop training and business coaching company proudly serving the independent auto and truck repair shop owner since 2006. He has also owned multiple successful auto repair shops over the years. Rick has taught at some of the biggest conferences in the industry across North America, including classes at AAPEX (NV), VISION (KS), ASTE (NC), BIMRS, ATSE (NY), ASA National, and AASP National. Beyond Associations, he has conducted training classes for WorldPac and BG. He is a contributing editor to Motor Age Magazine and has been published many times over the years for publications like Automotive Management Network, Aftermarket Weekly, Ratchet and Wrench, and Autobody News.

Pam is an ASE Master Automotive and Medium/HD truck technician, EVT/ASE Certified, MACS 609 Certified, National Safety Council defensive driving certified, FEMA National Incident Management Systems Certification along with being SME Automotive, HD Trainer, Shop Management & Content Development. She has many awards and publications to her credit and resides on many civic organizations committees or boards.

Benjamin C. Stephens grew up working in his family’s collision repair business, North Star Automotive in Bethlehem PA. After completing college with a degree in Mathematics, Benjamin took over running the North Star. He has 20 years experience running all aspects of a collision repair facility with an emphasized focus on estimating, repair planning, and customer service. Under Benjamin’s guidance North Star obtained multiple OEM certifications including being named 1 of the 67 Nissan’s Certified Collision Legacy Shops in the entire country. Benjamin’s family sold their collision repair facility in late 2021 and he is now part of Matthews Auto Supplies business development team. Matthews Auto Supplies host multiple training events and offers in shop training and assistance to their customers.

• Over 47 years in automotive repair industry • ASE Master certified • Trainer and instructor for over 20 years for various companies and equipment • Passionate about turning on the light bulb for opportunities

Cecil Bullard is one of the top Automotive Business Trainers and Consultants in the Industry. He believes that there is unlimited opportunity and potential in today's shops and that your business should be designed and run to give you the life you desire. He is currently CEO of the Institute. He has trained and mentored thousands of owners, managers and service advisors that want to run the best businesses in the industry and be at the top of their game. He has published over 120 articles and has been a featured speaker at AAPEX, VISION, ATE, AASP, ASTE, and various other conferences throughout the years. Cecil has spent most of his life in the Automotive Service and Repair Industry, held every position and operated multiple successful shops. He now serves as a consultant, trainer and teacher.

Rick White is a business turnaround and exponential growth expert who helps auto repair shop owners go from struggling to stay open to being recognized as the go-to shops in their market. He helps business owners with average shops transform their shops into the shop of the year in the industry. Currently, Rick is President of 180BIZ, an auto repair shop training and business coaching company proudly serving the independent auto and truck repair shop owner since 2006. He has also owned multiple successful auto repair shops over the years. Rick has taught at some of the biggest conferences in the industry across North America, including classes at AAPEX (NV), VISION (KS), ASTE (NC), BIMRS, ATSE (NY), ASA National, and AASP National. Beyond Associations, he has conducted training classes for WorldPac and BG. He is a contributing editor to Motor Age Magazine and has been published many times over the years for publications like Automotive Management Network, Aftermarket Weekly, Ratchet and Wrench, and Autobody News.

With over 40 years of automotive industry experience, Maylan Newton has literally been there and done that. From shop owner, technician, and service advisor to one of the most renowned industry trainers and speakers in the country. Maylan combines his real-world experience with profit-building takeaways in a humorous and engaging manner that only Maylan can deliver. As the president and CEO of ESi seminars, Maylan travels the country, sharing the keys to being successful in the automotive repair industry in his sold-out classes. Maylan is also the author of The Joy of Hiring, available now on Amazon.com.

Elise Stec is EasyPay's esteemed Corporate Account Manager, responsible for spearheading our engagement with national accounts and renowned brands. With a wealth of experience in the financial sector and an extensive background in promoting financial literacy, Elise has consistently empowered shops across the United States to unleash their true potential. Her expertise lies in facilitating a comprehensive understanding of EasyPay and its advantages to both businesses and their valued customers. Elise's commitment to bridging the financial knowledge gap has made her an invaluable asset in the journey towards financial empowerment.

Meet Marco Garmendia, EasyPay's dedicated Regional Sales Manager overseeing shop operations across the great state of Pennsylvania. Marco stands out as a seasoned field sales expert, armed with an impressive depth of knowledge in consumer financing. With a good understanding of the unique benefits that financing solutions bring to businesses and consumers alike, Marco has become a trusted advisor to numerous shops throughout the Keystone State. His passion for driving growth and fostering financial well-being is evident in every partnership he forges and every store he manages.