Automotive Recycling July-August 2023

July-August 2023 TM

Published by the

Automotive Recyclers Association

Dreams Coming True Jose Angel Valdez, Operations Manager, Daurio Auto and Truck, at right and in inset with his wife Maxine at their new home.

How One Legacy Employee Found a Greater Purpose in the Workplace ARA – PROTECTING THE INDUSTRY FOR 80 YEARS!

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July-August 2023

Volume 43 // No. 4

8

CELEBRATING 80 YEARS!

® – Recycled Original Equipment ®

Comments 4 // Direction Shan Lathem

6 // Horizon Sandy Blalock

10 // ARA 80th Annual Convention & Expo Sponsors Inventory

Hiring

News & Views

8 // S HiFT in Perspective

42 // It’s a Different Kind of Race: Slow Then Fast

18 // Industry

A new program gives ARA and CAR members access to inventory, at best pricing. Discover how to participate in this vehicle retirement program that is good for the consumer and great for automotive recycling’s image.

Annual Meeting

30 // Connecting to the Grid

The best strategy to take in finding and keeping the ideal employees is to hire slow and fire fast. // By Jessica Lorello, PHR, Employers Advantage, LLC

Management

44 // Assessing The Best

ARA’s Annual Convention celebrates 80 years of protecting the industry and brings auto recyclers from around the world together to recharge and connect.

Employment assessments are one tool that auto recyclers can use to identify the ideal candidates to fill roles in their companies.

Annual Exposition

Interview

36 // Expertise on the Grid The 80th Annual ARA Exposition brings the industry together to network with industry vendors.

12 // Wheel Jim Henry

22 // Expert

Wayne Colonna

24 // H.O.W.

Maura Keller

26 // Expert

Edmund Schwenk

28 // Coaching

Carlos Barboza

// By Maura Keller

47 // Recycler to Watch: A Dream Come True

53 // Advertiser Index 54 // Snapshot

How one Daurio Auto and Truck employee found his place in America — and in the family. // By Caryn Smith

Check out our new website AutoRecyclingNow.com!

AUTOMOTIVE RECYCLING (ISSN 1058-9376) is published bi-monthly by the Automotive Recyclers Association, 9113 Church Street, Manassas, VA 20110-5456 USA. Phone: (571) 208-0428, Fax: (571) 208-0430 Internet: www.a-r-a.org. Periodicals postage at Manassas, VA, and additional mailing offices.

Copyright © 2023 ARA. All rights reserved. Materials may not be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher. Statements of fact and opinion are the responsibility of the authors alone and do not necessarily imply any opinion on the part of the officers, directors, staff, or the members of the Automotive Recyclers Association.

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INSTITUTIONAL: A subscription for U.S.-based libraries/non-profits is $20/year.

Postmaster: Send change of address to Automotive Recycling magazine, 9113 Church Street, Manassas, VA 20110-5456 USA.

Automotive Recycling

On the Cover: Tara Patty Photography

Find us on

/AutomotiveRecycling July-August 2023 // 3

Direction

By Shan Lathem • ARA President

CELEBRATING 80 YEARS!

®

Going It Alone Isn’t An Option

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here is something I really enjoy about my career in automotive recycling, and I am sure many of you will agree. There are few industries like ours that collaborates with our competitors. We may not share client lists or sales tactics, but we will share experiences about most anything else to help another recycler. My business is better because I know you! Many of you have shared from platforms and hallways about what you know, and it has inspired me to want to know more and share it with others as well. This is the reason I got involved in leadership of the FADRA state association and now with ARA. As a second-generation auto recycler, it isn’t good enough to do things the way my parents did. I must keep up with the times, and that means heading into unknown territory, like learning more AI and EVs, which makes me nervous if I am being honest. Yet, I know I have people I can lean on, ask questions of, or just hang around to inspire me to make the necessary changes I need to grow my business the way I want to grow it. Maybe you too are excited for more opportunity, but a little nervous of the impact it will ultimately have. Together, we can figure it out.

When you think about our 80-year history, being celebrated at the 80th Annual ARA Convention, just imagine the number of family businesses that have shared information to bring us to where we are today. It is remarkable that we have been able to maintain this industry through entrepreneurially minded men and women – trailblazers in their own generations. There is no manual to run an auto recycling business, and no two businesses are alike. This is unique, and yet we manage to run successful businesses.

Or maybe this is what makes us successful – our ingenuity.

We must also acknowledge the people we employ who keep the business running every day. While we are working on the business, they are working in the business, to keep it moving. Think about the number of employees, and their families, that have benefited from working in our industry over the last 80 years. While we complain about the lack of talent available to us, many of us have legacy employees, who have worked most or all their career in our business.

How lucky are we to have an industry where this still occurs.

For me, I want to share about Sandra Adams. Sandra started with me as a title clerk, moved into bookkeeping

4 // July-August 2023

– Recycled Original Equipment ®

with no experience, but always had a drive to learn and accept any challenge that was presented to her. As bookkeeper, she thrived and eventually became the Office Manager. When I was invited to become part of the EC for ARA, I knew my time at Cocoa Auto Salvage would be limited during my term, so I needed to hire a manager.

Sandra helped me in the interview process, and we hired a few people that just didn’t work out. We were both frustrated. Eventually, I looked at her and asked, ‘do you want to try this? I think you can do it!’ Hesitantly, she accepted the position. Under her leadership, the business grew by leaps and bounds. She learned things she never thought she would know. I watched her grow professionally, as she took great care of the business like it was her own.

I can trust Sandra completely; and I know that if other employees, the business, or I need her help, she is there without question. She is one of the smartest people I know and isn’t afraid of hard work or taking on a challenge.

What she was able to accomplish even surprised her. If it wasn’t for her stepping up and taking on that role, I would not have been able to fulfill my responsibilities in my seat with ARA. Sandra has been with me 23 years. Earlier this year, she decided to step back, and gave up the day-to-day operations management, but she is still and will continue to be an integral part of Cocoa Auto Salvage. No one person can do this business alone, and trusted employees like Sandra should be valued for their contributions to the overall industry. They make it work.

As we celebrate our 80 years at the Annual Convention, remember that it is one place that you see everything that is new and changing. Stay on top of it, and don’t get left behind. If you are new to ARA, the annual meeting can be overwhelming at first. There is so much going on, so many people, so much information. I encourage you to engage and put what you learn into practice. It makes a huge difference in the trajectory of your business.

Let’s keep making history together!

Shan Lathem 2022-23 ARA President Automotive Recycling

Horizon

By Sandy Blalock • ARA Executive Director

CELEBRATING 80 YEARS!

®

Industry Events That Keep On Giving

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I hope to see you in Kansas City!

6 // July-August 2023

’ve attended many industry conventions, conferences and expositions and always found them to be highly beneficial for my business and myself for a variety of reasons. I would like to share some of the great benefits and experiences that are possible.

Yes, it does cost money to attend conventions and conferences. Just consider the cost as an investment! Deals from vendors, new contacts, and inspired employees can do a lot to help your small business grow, and auto recycling industry events can be a great place to get all of these things.

I always found that the networking at industry events brings together a diverse group of professionals, including experts, potential customers, partners, and competitors.

Networking allows us to build meaningful relationships, exchange ideas, and explore potential collaborations.

When I was new to the industry I needed to know more about it. Seminars, presentations, and keynote speeches delivered by industry leaders and experts helped to fulfill some of my needs. These sessions provide valuable insights, updates on the latest trends and technologies, and opportunities to enhance our knowledge and skills.

Of course, exposure to new products and services related to our industry provides some of the best learning opportunities – and they keep expanding every year. Attending events allows us to discover innovative solutions, technologies, and advancements that can benefit business operations. In addition to being introduced to some of the leading vendors, industry events can help you learn about new and more efficient ways of doing things.

Are you frustrated with an aspect of work and even though you’ve tried, you just can’t figure out a solution?

Conferences and trade shows help identify issues and get rid of them, because you learn from others who have probably experienced the same thing! They provide an opportunity to conduct market research and gain insights into the current market landscape. Learning about competitors’ products, business strategies, and customer preferences can help businesses make informed decisions.

Exhibiting at an industry exposition can significantly enhance a company’s visibility and brand recognition.

It offers a platform to showcase products, services, and expertise to a targeted audience, potentially attracting new customers and partners.

– Recycled Original Equipment ®

Conventions offer a chance to reconnect with existing clients, strengthen relationships, and gain valuable feedback on products and services.

Attending industry events can lead to new business opportunities, such as partnerships, joint ventures, and strategic alliances that might not have been possible otherwise. I am often inspired because there’s something special about an event where everyone is there and focused on what they love to do. If I have been feeling a little bit down about the way things are going at work lately, or a little bit worried that your business isn’t meeting its customer’s needs or just want to find a different approach, conferences and trade shows like the ARA 80th Annual Convention and Expo can open up new possibilities and perspective.

Engaging in discussions, workshops, and presentations can help professionals grow and expand their knowledge base, improving their overall expertise in the industry.

When I was new, I felt one of the best parts of attending auto recycling events was hearing a variety of speakers talk about their journey’s successes and failures. Speakers share about failure, but you also learn how they overcame their obstacles and became a leader in our industry. The most profound thing I learned was that it is okay to fail as long as you learn from that experience and use it to grow.

Industry events often present the latest research findings, emerging trends, and future projections, enabling attendees to stay ahead of the curve and anticipate changes in the market. We will have some exciting news to share at this year’s 80th Anniversary ARA Convention and Expo.

Overall, auto recycling industry events, whether it is the ARA Convention or your state or regional event, offer members of our unique industry a dynamic platform for networking, learning, business growth, and staying up to date with industry developments. Participating will lead to numerous advantages that can positively impact both you and businesses in the long run. This is your true ROI on the cost of attending.

I look forward to seeing you at this year’s exciting 80th Anniversary ARA Convention and Expo. Come learn and share with us so we can all grow and prosper together.

Reach Sandy Blalock at sandy@a-r-a.org. Share your thoughts pertaining to the advancement of professional automotive recycling.

Your letter could be published in an upcoming issue.

Automotive Recycling

in Perspective

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very day, we see more headlines about the earth in crisis: growing carbon emissions, overcrowding, the loss of biodiversity in plants and animals and more. We all need a good news injection and a positive story about the environment. We think that this positive story is OUR story. For decades the good work that has been done by auto recyclers on behalf of the planet has been largely missing from conversations about sustainability and environmental stewardship. Auto recycling continues to be the greatest recycling success story never told. While Tesla gobbles up headlines and media focuses on the “EV future,” auto recyclers go about their important business of making the world a cleaner, safer and more sustainable place to live unit by unit.

A SHiFT is Happening What does the future look like for ICE vehicles? The journey to cleaner air isn’t achieved overnight and transportation transformation isn’t a single step. Clean air goals aren’t fulfilled by legislatures or automakers, they are met one car at a time. Auto recyclers are a key component and will continue to be for all vehicles produced.

A new program gives ARA and CAR members access to inventory, at best pricing. Discover how to participate in this vehicle retirement program that is good for the consumer and great for automotive recycling’s image.

SHiFT Vehicle Retirement InitiativeTM (SHiFT VRI) is a partnership committed to helping consumers and companies RESPONSIBLY RETIRE vehicles with strict environmental protocols from start to finish. The program was created to deliver a trusted resource – ARA and its membership – for reducing carbon footprints. SHiFT allows vehicle owners to “participate” in the recycling of their vehicles while ARA members take advantage of a huge economic opportunity for their businesses.

Why SHiFT? Our customers want this: a) C onsumers are passionate about the environment. b) 7 5 percent of U.S. consumers are concerned about the environmental impact of the products they buy. c) 1 in 2 consumers are willing to pay more for a product branded sustainable.

Why Now? Every industry is taking up the mantle; mining, manufacturing, labor unions, associations are all talking about supporting ESG (Environmental Social Governance) goals. To date, professional automobile recycling has been held outside of these conversations. SHiFT allows our members of all sizes to have a plan and measurable contribution to the

SHiFT the Narrative It’s time for professional auto recyclers to take our place in the conversation about clean air and environmental goal setting. In an effort to carve out, count and lead, ARA and the Automotive Recycling Training Institute (ARTI) are proud to announce an ambitious environmental initiative: the SHiFT Vehicle Retirement Initiative.TM 8 // July-August 2023

Automotive Recycling

changes coming our way while seizing the opportunity to increase access to vehicles that may not otherwise hit their yards.

SHiFT Will: • Provide ARA members with exclusive access to inventory • Deliver a real and measurable environmental benefit • Provide customers with a direct relationship to professional auto recycling • Engage ARA members • Improve vehicle flow • Amplify ARA and member voices as environmental authorities SHiFT the Carbon Narrative Auto recyclers have pulled the oldest and heaviest polluting vehicles out of circulation for decades, harvesting parts and recycling materials but we’ve done so without tracking the net environmental benefit. SHiFT helps us to do this one car at a time. The timing is perfect, over the last few years the data surrounding the industry’s environmental initiatives has been easier to access. In 2019 the Massachusetts Automotive Recyclers Association commissioned Worcester Polytechnic Institute to perform a study on the environmental benefit of recycling a car. The study highlighted the measurable benefit of auto recycling and a nationwide study is now underway.

These measurements are a template of the

We’re excited to launch SHiFT but it’s only the first step.

We need ARA members to help us build and grow this program.

work SHiFT will perform. The program will count the net environmental benefit in terms of the carbon avoid through auto recycling.

SHiFT should be a source of pride, a nationwide recycling initiative led by America’s most experienced and innovative environmental stewards: professional auto recyclers. SHiFT enables auto recyclers to participate and be a leader in the conversations regarding the future of the transportation industry.

Paying It Forward Vehicles coming through the SHiFT program will also influence future generations of auto recyclers. Every vehicle processed supports the ARTI and is invested in future educational and training needs for the industry.

How We SHiFT SHiFT was developed with input from ARA and ARTI leaders over the past year and is a voluntary program for members willing and able to agree to the necessary protocols per unit.

How Does It Work?

1. A vehicle comes into the SHiFT funnel from a consumer, fleet or enterprise 2. The SHiFT Opportunity is pushed to member network 3. Members are offered unit at preferred pricing tiers 4. Member accepts or rejects 5. Unit is assigned with a pickup order 6. Unit is picked up and logged in mBid 7. Affidavit must be completed affirming that the engine will not be resold (though parts can be removed and sold) We’re excited to launch SHiFT but it’s only the first step. We need ARA members to help us build and grow this program.

The transportation industry is at a pivotal inflection point and in order to ensure professional auto recyclers’ continued role in the life cycle management of all vehicles – ICE and EV – and future economic prosperity, we need to grow and evolve with the industry. Professional auto recyclers actively participating in the processing of end-of-life vehicles utilizing the highest industry acceptable standards will cement a prosperous and sustainable auto recycling industry for generations to come.

https://shift4tomorrow.org Automotive Recycling

July-August 2023 // 9

ARA Officers PRESIDENT Shan Lathem Cocoa Auto Salvage Cocoa, FL shan@cocoaautosalvage.com 1ST VICE PRESIDENT Nick Daurio Daurio Auto Truck Pueblo, CO nick@daurioauto.com

SPONSORS

We want to thank our sponsors for their contributions to the 80th anniversary convention!

To see a full listing of exhibitors, see page 36.

Premiere Partners

2ND VICE PRESIDENT/TREASURER Eric Wilbert Wilbert’s U-Pull It Williamson, NY eric.wilbert@wilbertsinc.com SECRETARY Shannon Nordstrom Nordstroms Automotive, Inc. Garretson, SD shannon@nordstromsauto.com IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Martin “Marty” Hollingshead Northlake Auto Recyclers Hammond, IN martyh@narparts.com

ARA Executive Staff & Contractors ARA Headquarters • (571) 208-0428 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Sandy Blalock, Sandy@a-r-a.org SENIOR DIRECTOR FOR ASSOCIATION OPERATIONS; DIRECTOR OF STATE GOVERNMENT AND GRASSROOTS AFFAIRS Jessica Andrews, Jessica@a-r-a.org

Diamond Partner

SENIOR DIRECTOR OF MEMBER SERVICES & CERTIFICATION PROGRAM Kelly Badillo, Kelly@a-r-a.org VICE PRESIDENT OF GOVERNMENT AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS Emil Nusbaum, Emil@a-r-a.org DIRECTOR OF MEMBER RELATIONS Vince Edivan, Vince@a-r-a.org ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Kaitlyn Gatti, Kaitlyn@a-r-a.org

Gold Sponsors

MEETING PLANNER Kimberly Glasscock, (615) 476-4501 kglasscock@awardwinningevents.com ACCOUNTANT Candee Roth, Candee@a-r-a.org CERTIFICATION CONSULTANT Sue Schauls, sue.schauls@gmail.com

Silver Sponsors

CONSULTANT Ginny Whelan, vwhelan99@gmail.com A R A P U B L I C AT I O N S

AUTOMOTIVE RECYCLING™ MAGAZINE

AutoRecyclingNow.com

AUTO RECYCLER’S TOOLBOX®

AutoRecyclingNow.com

Associate Sponsors

COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING: Print & Digital Advertising Sales, Editorial & Design Caryn Smith / Jay Mason Driven By Design LLC (239) 225-6137 ARAEditor@comcast.net For all ARA print and digital advertising, editorial or production information, e-mail ARAEditor@comcast.net or call (239) 225-6137.

www.a-r-a.org 10 // July-August 2023

Automotive Recycling

Wheel Lorem ipsum

News, Trends & Reports from the Automotive Recyclers Association

Latest National Right to Repair Developments

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n July, the Alliance for Automotive Innovation signed a cooperative agreement on right to repair with the Automotive Service Association (ASA) and Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS).

The agreement states that the OEMs will continue to provide independent repair facilities with access to the same diagnostic and repair information that auto manufacturers make available to authorized dealer networks and that this includes telematics data and information for all powertrain types. The agreement also states that the parties will commit to working together to support federal legislation to codify provisions of the commitment.

Organizations representing the country’s

independent automotive repairers, collision repair experts and leading automakers have inked a landmark agreement on automotive right-to-repair.

The commitment among the Automotive Service Association, the Society of Collision Repair Specialists and Alliance for Automotive Innovation affirms a 2014 national agreement on automotive right-to-repair and states unequivocally that “independent repair facilities shall have access to the same diagnostic and repair information that auto manufacturers make available to authorized dealer networks.”

In a letter to Congress outlining this major automotive right-to-repair devel-

Organizational Leadership Speaks Out Scott Benevidez, Automotive Service Association Board Chairman and owner of Mr. B’s Paint & Body Shop Inc. in Albuquerque, New Mexico: “ASA has been a steadfast advocate for the right of independent repair shops to vehicle service information since before the 2002 service information agreement it signed with automakers. Since then, the cars Americans rely on have become increasingly sophisticated, and the rate of innovation will only accelerate. The way vehicle issues are diagnosed and repaired evolves in tandem with advancement. ASA is proud to have reached this new agreement with automakers because it ensures ASA members can diagnose and repair their customers’ vehicles without hinderance from telematics nor any other innovation. Most importantly, it maintains a competitive repair market that yields the highest quality safety outcomes at a fair price for drivers.”

Amber Alley, Society of Collision Repair Specialists Chairman and Manager of Barsotti’s Body and Fender in San Rafael, California: “Consumers should absolutely be able to choose quality repairs, performed in accordance with the specific procedures detailed by 12 // July-August 2023

opment, the coalition of repairers and automakers wrote: “This commitment was created with our mutual and valued customers in mind: vehicle owners. It affirms that consumers deserve access to safe and proper repairs throughout a vehicle’s lifecycle [and] it is built to last because it anticipates changes in automotive technologies and market evolutions.”

Highlights of the new automotive rightto-repair agreement include: Access to diagnostic and repair information: Independent repair facilities shall

continue to have access to the same diagnostic and repair information that auto manufacturers make available to authorized dealer networks. This applies to:

the vehicle engineers. They should have the right to be able to do so in an independent repair facility that has invested in the training, equipment and skillset development to meet the rigorous demands of sophisticated, modern vehicles. This expectation is achievable, and consumer options for repairs are not limited by automakers; quite the contrary. Consumers should have the right to a proper and safe repair, and this agreement reinforces the commitment that the entire industry will have the ability to train, equip their facilities, and perform repairs as intended by the vehicle engineers.”

John Bozzella, president and CEO, Alliance for Automotive Innovation: “Automakers support right to repair, and today’s independent auto repair market is working well with lots of competition. Auto repairers across the U.S. have access to the same repair and diagnostic information provided to auto dealers. It’s not just automakers who say this. It’s the Federal Trade Commission. And with today’s agreement, it’s also the thousands of independent auto repairers and small businesses in all 50 states who together with automakers have once again made this fundamental commitment to customers.”

Automotive Recycling

• Telematics data needed to diagnose and repair a vehicle if not otherwise available; • All vehicle technologies and powertrains, including gasoline, diesel, fuel cell, electric battery, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid electric powertrains.

Education and training: A pledge to work together on education and training programs so mechanical and collision repair facilities are fully aware of exactly where and how to obtain repair information, including: • Directly through an automaker’s repair website; • Shared access points like www.OEM1Stop.com; • Via third-party information providers, software and tools.

Future advancements: As vehicle technologies and the corresponding demands on repairers evolve, the commitment ensures a level playing field and a forum to discuss future repairer needs as they develop.

As state legislatures and Congress consider automotive right-to-repair laws, including the REPAIR Act, the parties noted: “…independent repairers and automakers are not at odds on automotive data access, but rather in lockstep on this fundamental principle: consumers should have choice when it comes to repair options and the ability to have their vehicle serviced in well-equipped shops by well-trained technicians anytime, anywhere, anyplace.”

Automotive right-to-repair already exists: • 70 percent of post-warranty automotive work today is handled by the independent repair community; • OEM1Stop.com was created by automakers for repair technicians to find repair and diagnostic information on most vehicles; • The Federal Trade Commission – the government’s top consumer protection and competition agency – has cited the automotive industry as an example of the repair aftermarket “working well.”

Automotive Recycling

ARA Small Group Networking Events

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RA recognizes the importance of the networking environment and recently held two fun events specifically for networking. On Saturday, June 24th several members set off for a day of sailing on a luxury yacht in Annapolis, Maryland.

The event’s unofficial start was on Friday June 23rd when Condon’s Auto Parts in Westminster, MD held an open house – special thanks to Greg and his team! On Saturday morning, ARA members boarded a 45’ Catamaran and although the weather leading up to the event had been a bit iffy, with the exception of a few rain drops, the skies cleared and it was a beautiful day. Everyone had a great time meeting new friends, sharing stories, strategies, successes, and failures as they spent most of the day sailing on the Chesapeake.

On September 10th, ARA members head offshore near Galveston, Texas for deep sea fishing. Contact Vince@a-r-a.org for details on future outings.

News from the Interchange Committee

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he Interchange Committee continues to identify ways of enhancing the capacity of all ARA members to sell more Recycled Original Equipment (ROE) parts that currently have no interchange or adequate description to allow integration into quotes and/or listings.

In consultation with industry yard management systems, last year the Committee identified the 12 parts below as needing part numbers. Many members currently utilize user defined part types (dot numbers) to inventory these parts. Improving consistency within the industry is something the Committee focuses on each month and as such, ARA is recommending member businesses utilize the part numbers below for the 12 parts. Please note that this is voluntary and up to individual businesses to decide whether or not to.

804 Bumper Pad 806 Hood Insulation Pad 807 Bumper Face Bar, Front 808 Bumper Face Bar, Rear 809 Headlight Bulb 810 Wheel Lug Nut 811 Back Door Moulding 812 Brush Guard 813 Hood Scoop 814 Grille Moulding 815 Cabin Air Filter 848 Wheel Opening Moulding The Committee has recently updated the “Inventory Specialist and Parts Grading” course on ARA University, again in an effort to improve consistency in how parts are listed and described across the industry.

The updated course was filmed on-site at Yancey’s this summer and is expected to be available in the early fall.

Do You Have Peer Interchange Ideas?

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he Interchange Committee is currently collecting and verifying recycler-to-recycler part interchangeability information that doesn’t necessarily meet the criteria for traditional interchange information. For example, part modification or fitment information based on recyclers’ experiences.

The goal is to help recyclers make more sales outside of what is provided by interchange.

Once information has been reviewed and verified, Checkmate and Hollander have agreed to incorporate this user feedback into their systems. Car-Part has also agreed to put this user feedback information on their website. To submit your interchange information, please send the following information to: ARAPI@a-r-a.org.

1. Interchange Numbers 2. User Notes (Please provide a description of what changes need to be made for this part to become interchangeable) 3. Your Contact Info 4. Photos (not required but greatly appreciated) 5. OEM Part Number (not required but greatly appreciated) July-August 2023 // 13

Enroll in ARA’s Peer-to-Peer Mentoring Program Today!

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e are more than half-way through 2023 – what do you want to accomplish by the end of this year? Are you looking for a fresh perspective on your business strategy, or an objective perspective on your short and long-term business goals? Peer-to-peer mentoring is available for FREE to any automotive recycling facility as a direct member benefit. The application process is open year-round and ARA is seeking new program Mentors and Mentees. Complete an application today to enroll in the year-long program, search under the Programs tab on the ARA website (www.a-r-a.org).

Give back to the industry and learn more about your own business through the process of mentoring a fellow recycler.

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Monitored by ARA, Mentors & Mentees are paired based on criteria developed to create a successful match, such as similarities in YMS, buying practices and other factors to provide the best experience possible for both parties.

Interested in learning more about this rewarding experience? Please reach out to ARA staff or program co-chairs, RD Hopper (sasparts1@gmail.com) and Marty Hollingshead (martyh@ narparts.com). Please email your application and any questions to Jessica Andrews (jessica@a-r-a.org).

The team at Eagle Auto Parts enjoyed the mentoring process.

Automotive Recycling

CAR Committee Rebrands Program; Adds New Certifications to the Logo

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Spanish Fluid Depollution Course — Coming Soon!

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he needs of our Spanish-speaking members and employees are front and center at ARA and the Automotive Recycling Training Institute (ARTI).

A Spanish version of one of ARA University’s most popular courses, Fluid Depollution, was recently completed and will be available soon on the ARAU platform.

Automotive Recycling

RA’s Certification Committee is excited to announce the release of a new more modern logo for the program as well as related badges signifying those facilities that are also Gold Seal, Recall and/or High Voltage Vehicle certified. Certified facilities are encouraged to start incorporating the updated logo and badges into their daily operations. The new graphics are available NOW to certified facilities. Please contact ARA staff at staff@a-r-a.org for the files.

The Committee and ARA realize that many proud certified member facilities have already invested significantly in signage and other marketing materials that utilize the existing CAR logo. We thank you for helping spread the word about this industry recognized program! It is the Committee’s goal that by January 2024 all certified members will be using the new logo.

Important Reminders: If you would like your facility recognized as being CAR Certified at this year’s ARA Annual Convention, your self-audit must be completed, submitted and approved by September 5.

To be listed as CAR certified in the print version of the 2024 Membership Directory that is shipped to all ARA members, your self-audit must be completed, submitted and approved by December 1.

All 2023 electronic records are due by December 31, 2023. 2023 electronic records received after December 31, 2023 will not be accepted.

2024 is a professional audit year. The 2024 electronic records will be available for purchase in the late fall. For a list of CAR-approved auditors, please contact staff@a-r-a.org.

July-August 2023 // 15

CELEBRATING 80 YEARS!

® – Recycled Original Equipment ®

ARA Scholarship Fund Holds Contest with $20,000 in Prizes and a $10,000 Raffle at the ARA Convention in Kansas City

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he ARA Scholarship Foundation’s newest fundraiser is catching fire, and participation in the fun is high! They are selling calendars to Countdown to Convention, with chances to win 80 exciting daily prize giveaways that started on July 27th and continues until the end of the Convention on October 14th. Over $20,000 in prizes are being given away with a minimum value of $100 daily. Those playing found out quickly that buying more than one increases odds of winning.

Need not be present to win and you can win multiple times!

There is still time to get in on the fun. To purchase calendars at $20 each, see instructions at www.a-r-a.org/convention or use the venmo code (left) and include your email in the message.

Want to Win $10,000? Your opportunity takes place on Saturday, October 14 at the ARA Convention. The Scholarship Foundation is holding a raffle to win $10,000. Raffle tickets are on sale now for $100 each. Contact Kelly Badillo to get yours at kelly@a-r-a. org or find an ARA Scholarship Foundation committee member at the event. Need not be present to win!

16 // July-August 2023

WELCOME NEW AND RETURNING MEMBERS 366 Processing Services, Inc. AA Auto Adkins, Inc. BMP Enterprises, Inc. Boston Freightliner/New England Road Equipment Car Part Solutions, Inc. Clarks Auto Salvage Go Powertrain Hwy 195 Used Auto Parts, Inc. Interstate Batteries Recycling, LLC Lucky Line Auto Parts Mullins Auto Parts & Towing, Inc. Orillia Auto & Truck Recyclers Corp.

Prestige Motor Cars Team PRP - Premium Recycled Parts Warner Salvage Auto Parts Corp.

Automotive Recycling

Industry An Inventory Uptick

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ew-car dealers are getting what they’ve been asking for, ever since the COVID-19 pandemic began – more, but not “too much” more, new-vehicle inventory.

Nevertheless, dealership groups say they’d like manufacturers to do more to stimulate retail demand. They want the factories to increase incentives on loans and leases, and to produce a more affordable mix of new vehicles. More on those issues later.

“Too much” inventory requires a lot of discounting, to move the metal. On average, new-car dealerships are far from that point, said Jonathan Smoke, chief economist for Cox Automotive, in a recent report.

“The new-vehicle market’s most acute inventory issues are in the rearview mirror now,” Smoke said. According to Cox Automotive, U.S. dealerships had newvehicle inventory of about 1.9 million units in May, an increase of about 70%, vs. 1.1 million a year ago.

“Dealers are now facing an uncertain economy and high loan rates that are keeping many would-be buyers on the sidelines,” Smoke said.

Higher inventory produced higher sales in May. According to LMC Automotive, U.S. light-vehicle sales in May were about 1.4 million, an increase of 23.5%, vs. May 2022. “Original Equipment Manufacturers raised vehicle production on the back of fewer supply issues,” LMC Automotive said in a June 14 report.

But new-vehicle inventory is still far below pre-pandemic levels. For most of 2019, new-vehicle inventory was above 3.5 million new cars and trucks combined, and incentives were much higher than they are today.

“New-car inventory is building,” said Jeff Dyke, president of Sonic Automotive Inc., Charlotte, N.C. “If you take a look, it’s not just us, but you look across the board. If you look at new-car inventory, it’s gone from, call it, 18 // July-August 2023

iStockphoto.com/welcomia

By Jim Henry

The average new-vehicle transaction price is back down below Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price, and incentives are up — but only for the last few months.

a 20-day supply to a 30-day supply on average across the board. We expect that to continue to grow,” he said, in a conference call to announce first-quarter earnings.

Days-supply is an estimate of how long a given supply of new vehicles would last, at the current monthly sales rate, if the supply were not replenished. Before COVID, a 60-day supply was the industry benchmark.

Fast-forward to today, and with the current increase in inventory, new-car prices are declining from recent record highs.

The average new-vehicle transaction price is back down below Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price, and incentives are up – but only for the last few months.

According to Kelly Blue Book, the average, new-vehicle transaction price in May was below MSRP for the fifth month in a row. In May 2023, the average new-vehicle transaction price was $410 below MSRP. In May 2022, the average transaction price was $637 above MSRP. Paying above sticker price was virtually unheard-of before the pandemic, except for the occasional luxury or sports car.

Despite the recent downturn relative to MSRP, today’s average transaction price is still much higher, and discounts are still much lower, than they were in 2019, before the pandemic, and the long-lasting shortage of computer chips.

Specifically, the average new-vehicle transaction price in May was $48,528, Kelly Blue Book said. That was an increase of $1,393, or 3%, vs. a year ago. That’s a small increase by recent standards. In May 2022, the average transaction price was up 13.5% vs. May 2021, Kelly Blue Book said.

Meanwhile, manufacturer incentives are up. Kelly Blue Book said that in May, the average manufacturer’s incentive represented 3.9% of the average transaction price, or $1,914. That was the highest incentive level so far in 2023. A year ago, it was just 2.5% of average transaction price, or $1,178.

Besides higher incentives, LMC Automotive said the average new-vehicle transaction price may also have declined in part because manufacturers produced a bigger mix of lower-priced vehicles.

Continued Automotive Recycling

Computer chips were in shorter supply last year, and with customers waiting in line for new vehicles, manufacturers have been steering chips to their most profitable products, to make up for lower unit volume overall.

At the end of the first quarter, the big, publicly traded dealer groups complained that manufacturers had over-produced high-end vehicles with a high level of options, and they complained that manufacturers were slow to increase incentives.

“While inventory availability is improving, several OEMs have not invested in additional consumer incentives to meet the retail demand,” said Chris Holzshu, COO for Lithia and Driveway Motors, Medford, Ore. “We expect incentives to increase throughout the year, which should have a positive impact on new car volumes,” he said in a conference call to announce first-quarter earnings.

David Hult, CEO of Asbury Automotive Group, Duluth, Ga., raised similar concerns, in a separate earnings call.

20 // July-August 2023

“We had an imbalance of inventory, in the sense of there were heavy-contented vehicles that were built during the chip shortage. Everyone went with the heavy content in the vehicles,” he said.

“And in the first quarter, especially on the domestic side, people are looking for less expensive trucks than what we had, and there was a slow approach on incentives there,” Hult said.

Dealer groups also said they’d like to see a comeback in leasing, as a way to address affordability issues.

Roger Penske, chairman and CEO of Penske Automotive Group, Bloomfield Hills, Mich., said that before the pandemic and the new-vehicle shortage, leasing accounted for 50% to 55% of his group’s retail volume, but today it has fallen to the mid- to low-30% range.

Penske Automotive’s lease share is much higher than the industry average because the group has a high share of luxury brands.

On average, leasing accounted for around 30% of new-vehicle volume before the

pandemic, vs. around 18% today, according to Experian Automotive. Leasing fell when manufacturers cut back on incentives, since lease share has always been driven by incentives.

Roger Penske said leasing may make a comeback, provided manufacturers return to lease incentives. “I think that I expect leasing to increase,” he said in an earnings call – when manufacturers need more leases to hit their sales numbers.

Jim Henry is a New Jersey-based, veteran freelance reporter covering the U.S. auto industry, writing for trade magazines Automotive News and WardsAuto, plus Forbes and others.

Concentrations include U.S. light-vehicle sales, dealership Fixed Operations and Finance & Insurance, mergers and acquisitions, publicly traded dealer groups, OEM financial results, and Connected, Autonomous, Shared, Electric Vehicles.

He is also the former department manager, corporate strategy and market research for Mercedes-Benz USA, and a former president of the International Motor Press Association.

Automotive Recycling

SPONSORED

Expert

By Wayne Colonna

No Forced Throttle Downshifts

T

wenty-five years ago, Chrysler introduced a 0.187” (4.77mm) steel, #10 check ball (Figure 1) in the 42RE valve body and it continued to be used throughout the entire RE series of transmissions (42, 44, 46, 47 and 48RE) as they were launched.

This small check ball is quite active, having several functions during the course of one complete drive cycle.

Function #1: When the converter clutch is off, it sends Overdrive Clutch Prefill (OCP) pressure (0-5psi) to the 3-4 Timing Valve while simultaneously blocking it from entering the converter clutch apply circuit (Figure 2).

Function #2: When the converter clutch is commanded on before 4th gear, this ball will then block OCP pressure to the 3-4 Timing Valve allowing pressure from the converter clutch apply valve to stroke the 3-4 Timing Valve (Figure 3).

Function #3: When a shift into 4th gear takes place, Lock-up turns off and the Overdrive Solenoid turns on stroking the 3-4 Shift Valve. Once the 3-4 Shift Valve strokes, it fills the OCP circuit with pressure applying the Overdrive Clutch. This same pressure is routed to the 3-4 Quick Valve, the Accumulator and the #10 check

Figure 2 22 // July-August 2023

Figure 3

Figure 1

ball where it is then sent to stroke the 3-4 Timing Valve (Figure 4).

These are the three basic functions of the #10 check ball, which was implemented to ensure smooth sequential downshifts. There is an additional hydraulic function that took place when this ball was added. It occurs when the converter clutch is commanded on in 4th gear. When the computer turns the lock-up solenoid on, it strokes the converter clutch apply valve. This charges a circuit that causes the converter clutch timing valve to stroke. The converter clutch timing valve then sends line pressure to the rear spool of the 3-4 shift valve (Figure 5). This is added insurance to keep the shift valve stroked. And again, all this is done to assist in providing a smooth sequential release of the converter clutch, followed by a downshift. By doing this, it prevents the converter clutch from releasing on top of a downshift which would be felt as a harsh downshift.

Let’s now talk about one of the failures that can be experienced with this hydraulic system. The complaint that typically accompanies this failure is no forced throttle downshifts when the transmission is hot. This complaint only occurs once the transmission has shifted into overdrive followed by the converter clutch being

Figure 4

commanded on. The scan tool data reveals that at wide open throttle the lock up solenoid and the overdrive solenoid are being command off, yet the transmission remains in overdrive with the TCC applied. If you pull the shift lever from the “drive to the number 2 position” it will downshift to 2nd gear. A careful road test may also reveal that once the transmission is hot the lock up clutch may engage after the 1-2 up shift.

The cause is the lock up solenoid has mechanically failed, preventing it from exhausting when it has been commanded off by the computer (Figure 6). This keeps both the converter clutch apply valve and 3-4 shift valve stroked in the upshifted position. The converter clutch switch valve is also kept stroked keeping the converter clutch applied.

By installing a new TCC/OD solenoid assembly these malfunctions are resolved.

Wayne Colonna has been with the Automatic Service Group for over 30 years. As President of ATSG and Director of Quality at ETE REMAN, Wayne is helping to usher the transmission industry to the highest of standards. When he’s not at ETE in Milwaukee, he can be found with his wife in Miami taking her out to eat, playing Spanish guitar, or maybe enjoying a bottle of fine wine.

Figure 5

Figure 6 Automotive Recycling

H.O.W. Helping Others Win • By Maura Keller

Beware of Imposters

T

hey say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but that’s not the case when it comes to social media where copycats and impostors can wreak havoc on your way of doing business. Just ask Cheryl Rash, managing member at Blue & Gold Auto Salvage in Goose Creek, SC. As Rash explained to ARA in an email warning other companies of Facebook impostors and scammers, Blue & Gold Auto Salvage recently began dealing with a significant Facebook page imposter/ scammer who has targeted the company for their own personal gain.

“This person has copied a picture of our storefront, duplicated our name, and has created a page, which was first in the ‘Real Estate’ section, and it is now in the ‘Entrepreneur’ section, pretending to be us on Facebook. There are dozens and dozens of posts with pictures of beautiful parts for sale (many are highly sought after truck parts),” Rash explained. “Unfortunately, several people have tried to buy parts from them and were scammed out of their money.”

Created back in October 2022, the Facebook imposter has gone so far as issuing very legitimate looking invoices pretending to be from Blue & Gold Salvage.

“We found out about it at the beginning of February 2023, when we got a phone call from someone who had been scammed out of $4,000. Since then, we have received several more calls from people that also became victims” Rash says. “Unfortunately, they figured out they’ve been scammed when they’ve sent money and received no parts, then they do a little research and find us, either on Facebook or via our website.”

Since finding out about the imposter page, the Blue & Gold Salvage team has tried many, many times to report it to Facebook in every way that Facebook offers. They’ve also had friends, family report it as well.

“The victims that have called us all say 24 // July-August 2023

they too, have or will report it. Local authorities say they REAL BLUE AND GOLD INVOICE cannot really help us in getting the page taken down because technically we are not a victim since we have not lost any money,” Rash says.

As far as the victims that have lost money, some of them have been successful at getting a portion or all their money back – depending on their method of payment, etc. – other victims have not been so lucky. And the imposter page is still up.

For many months, Rash monitored the fake page and when a new potential victim would post a question or comment to the scammer, she would “private message” each person and explain that the page they were seeing was not Blue & Gold’s real Facebook IMPOSTER INVOICE page and that it was a scam. To date, over 400 private messages and warnings were sent to potential victims.

“The responses and thanks we received proved that we were able to prevent many people from getting scammed,” Rash says. pictures posted have a lot of nice parts in “One perspective buyer sent me a screenthem and assumably are highjacked off of shot of a heated conversation in which the another salvage yard’s website or Facebook scammer threatened to find and kill him page also,” Rash says. after the buyer discovered the truth and Rash also contacted offices with the FBI, told the scammer he was contacting the FTC, U.S. Senator Tim Scott, South Caroauthorities.” lina Department of Consumer Affairs, South The scammers are still posting new picCarolina Attorney General, the BBB, and tures regularly, but they must have figured has reached out to a couple of technology out that Blue & Gold Auto Salvage were experts but no one seems to have any soluprivately warning people who were comtions. She’s also discovered about nine other menting or asking questions on their posts, salvage yards across the country that are because now on the posts, the comments experiencing the same thing. After speaking read “no visible comments” which, of with some of them, many are aware of their course, will not allow Rash or others at Facebook imposter pages and they have Blue & Gold to contact potential victims. unsuccessfully tried to have them taken If you have the time and would like to see down and don’t know what else to do. the posts, they are under Blue & Gold Auto “This makes me wonder how many other Salvage in the “Entrepreneur” section of yards this may be happening too. Some may Facebook (when searching, don’t spell out not even be aware of it – we didn’t know the word “and,” use the ampersand). “The about it for about three to four months,” Automotive Recycling

ACTIONS TO TAKE: Facebook does offer an online form to report anyone who is posing as an individual or business. Unfortunately, Blue & Gold did not get results from this, but you should report anyone who is using your email is pretending to be you as an individual. Instagram also has a reporting form. You can also ask friends, family, employees and colleagues to REPORT the derelict page.

See graphics on how to do this:

Rash says. “At this point, I don’t know how to combat this, as I have not found a way to actually communicate or speak with a real human being at Facebook.”

If you are aware of any yards that have been through the same type of issue and they were able to find a solution, Rash would appreciate any guidance or information that could assist Blue & Gold Salvage, and any other auto recyclers, with taking down imposter pages and ending this illegal activity.

To connect with Cheryl Rash at Blue & Gold Salvage, you can reach out via phone at 843-797-5580 ext. 201 or via email at cheryl@blueandgoldauto.com.

Based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Maura Keller is a seasoned writer,

To learn more or to report impersonation pages, visit: https://help.instagram.com/446663175382270 or https://www.facebook.com/help/contact/295309487309948

Automotive Recycling

editor, and published author, with more than 20 years of experience.

She frequently writes for various regional and national publications.

July-August 2023 // 25

SPONSORED

Expert

By Edmund Schwenk

Spark Plug Recycling: Problem Solved By 2030 demand for Iridium for the manufacture of PEMs is projected to require 12 metric tons. facture of PEMs is projected to require 12 metric tons. If we as an industry collect and recycle this material, we will make a great contribution to the current deficit.

W

hy have spark plugs not been recycled?

For years used spark plugs have been sent in with steel scrap for recycling or simply tossed in the trash. Prices paid have always been dependent upon scrap steel pricing.

Any precious metal content has been lost to the steel-making process.

Why has the Iridium – Platinum not been recovered?

Early attempts have been too labor intensive for economic recovery. Recently mechanical processes have been applied such as shredding but with no success at separation of the valuable metals.

We are happy to announce that PGM Recovery Systems has been awarded a U.S. Patent for high-speed automated robotic processing of spent spark plugs to recover their precious metal bearing electrodes.

Three years of engineering development has brought about this milestone to the industry.

Now you can get paid for your bulk quantities of used spark plugs at prices that are worthy of promoting this enterprise.

26 // July-August 2023

Why do we need to recycle Iridium?

Why now more than ever?

Iridium is one of the scarcest elements on the earth with a low occurrence of only 0.000003 parts per million in the earth’s crust. It is a very hard, brittle, and dense metal that belongs to the platinum group.

Its mechanical properties are perfect to survive the environment in today’s high temperature gasoline burning engines.

These higher temperatures and pressures are required to achieve lower emissions standards at the tailpipe.

The crucial role of Iridium now, in particular, is to supply enough to support scale-up of proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysers to produce green hydrogen This will put the world on a path toward a lower green-house gas emissions footprint.

The demand for Iridium is high. It is estimated that between 7.5-8.3 metric tons are mined annually. Manufacturing of spark plugs consumes 1.5 metric tons each year and has not been recycled at “end of life.”

By 2030 demand for Iridium for the manu-

What do I need to do? How does my company benefit from recycling these spark plugs?

In the past you have received very little renumeration for this scrap item. Now that has changed, and you can get paid appropriately. All that is needed is to collect bulk.

We are now accepting bulk lots of Iridium – Platinum spark plugs, LTL or TL shipments.

No copper or partial-broken plugs accepted (whole plugs only), and no trash or deductions will apply. We are harvesting the electrodes (center and side) for their precious metal value. Electrodes need to be intact.

Edmund Schwenk has been engaged in the processing/ refining/manufacturing of precious metals for over 30 years. Early on, he received training in a laboratory setting as an assayer utilizing classical fire assay, crucible fusion, and cupellation techniques. This coupled with in plant manufacturing process experiences led to advancement as Senior Vice President in charge of precious metals refinery operations for Pure Metals Corporation, directing the fabrication of high purity precious metals products sputtering targets for multiple defense contractors and government testing laboratories. Ed’s unique experience has benefited noble6 through the development of two disruptor technologies for use in the auto catalyst recycling sector. Visit noble6’s website at www.noble6.com or call 619-427-8540 for more information.

Automotive Recycling

Automotive Recycling

July-August 2023 // 27

Coaching

By Carlos Barboza

Time: Our Most Valuable Resource

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e are given a parenthesis that opens at birth and a parenthesis that closes at death, and within that lifetime falls on us much of the enormous responsibility for making our lives meaningful or having a wasted life. Obviously, every day we live is one less day in our life, but this, instead of being discouraging, should encourage us to live every day as the most precious resource.

Here are some misconceptions of time: Time flies,” but in reality it is a fixed •“ rate.

We have to save time.” Time cannot •“ be stored or borrowed like money.

You have to make up for lost time,” •“ it is a vain hope, a lost minute cannot be recovered. Time gone, lost time.

There is not enough time.” There is •“ time for everything, if you know how to manage it wisely.

In the management’s world, there are also myths about time management: The most active managers achieve •“ more.” Actually, doing more does not mean doing better.

Delayed decisions are better,” but •“ it can also make the problem worse.

Monsters must be killed when they are babies, before they grow up.

The higher the level, the better the •“ decision,” but the impact of errors can also be greater.

Only he can make the decision” •“ is often an act of omnipotence.

The use of time shows us the challenge of living in accordance with the purposes and values that matter to us, with a sense of responsibility and transcendence. The best-selling book, The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey, explains habits that help us “achieve a high level of effectiveness in all relevant aspects of life.” In the habit of personal time management, it tells us about the 28 // July-August 2023

urgent (activities that require immediate action) and the important (activities that are related to the results or purposes that we want to obtain). Covey tells us that when we focus on what is important (good nutrition, exercise, acquiring knowledge, reducing stress, building quality relationships, family, spirituality, rational use of resources, healthy leisure, recognizing good opportunities, planning, prevention), then the urgent (diseases, poverty, family breakdown, stress) are minimized.

A useful guide to live with what is important in mind: Expect the Best (Visualization), Energy (Health), Evolution (Intellectual Growth), Emotion (Social, Self-Esteem), and Spirituality (Connections that are somewhat higher than the material, nature, transcendence).

We live in a remarkable time. We have an infinite wealth of information, connections and resources at our fingertips, thanks to the internet and smartphones. But what we don’t have is an abundance of time or unlimited attention spans, both of which are scarce resources.

Hobbies like social media, trivial phone calls, useless meetings, and unproductive hustle fuel future urgencies. While the internet is a wonderful tool, it has its perverse side as a distraction. Social networks, applications, digital platforms and television, due to their ease of access, the attractiveness of their format and the variety of their content, have created a generation of distracted and introverted adolescents and young people, with panic attacks, few social skills; as well as adults who, out of ego, show feigned happiness and insubstantial comments exposed to the public on platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

There are Influencers with thousands or millions of followers whose only merit is extravagance, lying advice, incitement to

The use of time shows us the challenge of living in accordance with the purposes and values that matter to us, with a sense of responsibility and transcendence. consumerism, offering miraculous shortcuts to be happy; and through their perverse modeling they have created a loss of personality and collective identity.

So besides talking about how you spend your time in order to achieve a quality of life (not quantity), think about where you direct your energy and what you give your attention to.

The good thing about your life is that you have the power of choices. For instance, you can put your energy into things that move you forward like doing work you’re proud to put your signature on or you can put your energy into things you can’t control. In the end, it’s your choice. So, be wise about your choices – your energy is a precious resource. It is not worth wasting the precious resources of our life. Give your energy to what matters.

Regarding attention, think of it like it is the currency of achievement, of all the things that will transform the quality of your life. Improving the ability to manage your attention is at the top of that list.

Pay attention to things and the people you care about.

Queen Elizabeth I of Great Britain once said, “I would give everything for a little more time.” So, what are you waiting for to squeeze every minute out of your life?

My last quote from Alice Morse Earle: “Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift. That is why it is called the present.”

Carlos Barboza is the owner of Eco Green Auto Parts, Orlando, FL. Their website is https:// ecogautoparts.com and they can be found on Facebook @ecogreenautoparts.

Automotive Recycling

Connecting to the Grid ARA’s Annual Meeting Celebrates 80 Years of Protecting the Industry and Brings Auto Recyclers from Around the World Together to Recharge and Connect

FOR MORE DETAILS

CONNECT

With Leading Industry Suppliers

LEARN

From Top Industry Experts

network With Your Colleagues

E

RECORD NUMBERS IN 2022 – DON’T MISS THIS!

ach year, the Automotive Recyclers Association hosts it Annual Convention & Expo, drawing industry professionals from across the globe. This year’s convention is going to be extra exciting as the Association is celebrating its 80th anniversary! Heading to Kansas City – which was established in 1850 with plenty of its own history – the event will be October 12-14, 2023 and held at the Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center.

(Check out the agenda on page 34.)

In fact, celebrating the city’s western roots and the Association’s anniversary will be a Friday evening bootsand-band shindig. Attendees will enjoy a reception in the hotel foyer with cocktails and networking, a buffet dinner and short awards ceremony, followed by a party complete with selfie stations, a dance band and trivia contest.

“We’ve made having a good time the priority at the annual conference dinner,” says Shan Lathem, ARA President. “After we present the big awards – the President’s

30 // July-August 2023

Award, the Certified Auto Recycler (CAR) Facility of the Year Award and the Member of the Year Award – we will be kicking up our boots and having a great time. This year’s convention theme is ‘Red, White and Boots,’ so be sure to pack yours for the Friday night event. The live band will play a great variety of music and we are going to dance the night away. As I turn the gavel over to Nick, we are going to have a party to remember!”

During dinner, attendees will take a trip down memory lane as historical photos and videos celebrating ARA’s 80th anniversary will be displayed on large video screens.

“The change in the format of the annual awards dinner – from a formal sit-down event to a more casual buffet experience, as well as incorporating a lot of fun activities throughout the evening – is something that we’ve learned appeals to attendees. We’ve listened to input and made appropriate changes,” says Kim Glasscock, Event Planner at ARA. “The event is intended to be inviting, casual and a whole lot of fun.”

Automotive Recycling

Inspiring Tours Having fun at the convention takes many forms.

Touring peer facilities and casual networking is always a highlight for attendees. ARA members pride themselves on learning from one another. That’s why attendees can embark on two facility tours on Saturday. Beginning at 5 p.m., tour groups will leave the hotel and travel to nearby Vander Haags, where visitors can take a tour of their facility, enjoy hors d’oeuvres, drinks and compete in corn hole and other fun activities. Following the Vander Haags’ facility tour, the group will head to Midway, where additional facility tours will be held, along with a buffet dinner and drinks.

“Vander Haags is thrilled to be a part of the ARA organization and we are excited to host the group at our 40-acre facility and yard here in KC,” says Jesse Wheeler, general manager at Vander Haags. “In addition to heavy truck salvage, we have a full-service repair shop, new and used parts, and truck and trailer sales, all of which will be open and on display that evening. There will be hors d’oeuvres and beverages to enjoy while touring our facility. We are looking forward to seeing you all then!”

Ryan Falco, president at Aesop Auto Parts, which is powered by Midway Auto Parts, is also looking forward to “hosting everyone for some famous Kansas City BBQ, libations and good times.”

Boasting a spacious 20-acre facility, Midway Auto Parts, which has maintained a presence on the same street since 1988, showcases an impressive inventory of over 2,000 vehicles. The location is further enhanced by its substantial warehouse capacity, with a combined area exceeding 150,000 square feet, and facilitates the production of 250 full-service vehicles each month.

“The valuable insights from your peers and the relationships you will establish at the 80th Annual ARA Convention and Expo will be forever yours,” says Sandy Blalock, ARA Executive Director. “There is no better time to find out about the latest updates in products and services available to members of our industry than attending the annual convention and expo. It’s such a great opportunity to get exposed to a better way of doing things by networking with your industry peers, where they are not shy about sharing their accomplishments, successes and, often, even what does not work well. Don’t miss being a part of this historical event!”

Check out the next few pages for details to get ready for Kansas City! +

History Coming to Life As part of the event, be sure to bring a few historical photos of your own to display on ARA’s Wall of History!

Come help us celebrate ARA’s 80th anniversary and the long-standing history of the association and the ongoing impact of the automotive recycling history.

We look forward to seeing everyone in Kansas City!

Down to Business ARA has put together an exciting lineup of convention speakers, and general session topics, as usual. A sneak peek on the topic brought by keynote speaker Ryan Mandell – Director of Claims Performance for Mitchell’s Auto Physical Damage Business Unit – is found on page 32.

Throughout the day on Friday and Saturday, numerous auto recycling industry experts will be sharing their insights on the hottest topics facing the industry today – from operating a hybrid salvage yard to successful self-service operating secrets to succession planning.

Attendees can also enjoy the annual ARA Exposition, one of the largest in the industry, which provides the unique opportunity to interact with industry vendors one to one, and learn about innovative products and technologies to enhance your business.

Automotive Recycling

July-August 2023 // 31

What speakers have to say about their sessions: Andy Latham

Have We Been Doing it Wrong All This Time?

Vehicle dismantling and recycling has been a very green industry for a considerable number of years, however, more can be done to reduce emissions, become carbon neutral and contribute to the global effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Join with fellow vehicle dismantlers and recyclers as we investigate how much more could be done to help each and every business become greener and have the added benefit of cost savings, greater employee satisfaction, meeting customer and client expectations and being a leader in this industry.

Greg Daurio

Parts Grading and Inventory Best Practices

Building on the soon-to-be released NEW ARA University course on the same topic, this session will cover a variety of best practices when it comes to inventorying a car and grading your parts. Consistency across the industry is key to everyone's success! (Greg Daurio, Roger Schroder, Emily Yancey)

Tom Andrade

Operating a Hybrid Salvage Yard

This session will highlight the operation of a hybrid salvage facility.

All aspects of the operation will be covered: acquisitions, vehicle processing & dismantling, material harvesting, self service sales, full service sales. In addition, the session will include scrap, precious metal and core markets.

Everett’s Auto Parts has operated as hybrid for the past 35 years.

We are a high-volume, retail-focused facility.

Theresa Colbert

Do’s & Don’ts of Brokering and Tiering

The do’s and don’ts of brokering. Everything you ever wanted to know about trading partners, tiering and duplicate accounts.

Convention Speakers (AS OF JULY 15, 2023)

Ryan Mandell

Eric Wilbert

Mark Brown

Steve Barkwell

Amy Hinton

Tom Andrade

Sue Schauls

Andy Latham

Shannon Nordstrom

Lance Thomas

Chad Counts

Greg Tautkus

Joe Hearn

Mike Swift

Ron Wilbert

Julio Arreola

Mike Kunkel

Justin Lopus

Jonathan Morrow

Chad Counselman

Vince Edivan

Betsy Finnell

Theresa Colbert

Paul D'Adamo

JC Cahill

Josh Morrow

Rich Hendren

Lloyd Welty

Greg Daurio

Eric Larkin

Roger Schroder

Bob Mulaney

Emily Yancey

Surinder Singh

Troy Webber

Jim McKinney AND MORE!

32 // July-August 2023

Recycler KEYNOTE

Mark Brown Browns Auto Salvage

Mark is a firstgeneration auto recycler from Bomoseen, Vermont.

He and his wife Joanie have been partners for over 40 years and have grown their company to a 60-person facility that processes 2,400 late model cars a year.

They are currently transitioning company ownership to their GM/son Matt.

Mark is an active member of PRP NE as well as past president. He credits his success to the free exchange of ideas between independent auto recyclers and to hard work. He can talk passionately about auto recycling, family-owned business, and American life.

KEYNOTE

Ryan Mandell Director, Claims Performance, Auto Physical Damage Solutions, Mitchell

Ryan has spent his entire career in the automotive industry and has a wide array of experiences ranging from field claims appraiser, body shop manager, and as a regional director for a large recycled parts supplier. In his current role, Ryan works a wide range of industry stakeholders including insurance executives and material damage leaders to provide actionable insights and consultative direction for their organizations.

Ryan earned his Master of Arts degree from Northern Arizona University and Bachelor of Arts from the University of San Diego. He also received the Accredited Automotive Manager designation from the Automotive Management Institute in 2016.

Ryan has spoken at numerous industry events and is a frequent author of content related to auto insurance and collision repair. You can find a link to his industry podcast and written materials at mpower.mitchell.com.

Thriving in an Age of Disruption: Reimagining Your Business to Capitalize in the Growing Trends of Automotive Complexity & Electrification The automotive industry has experienced an unprecedented explosion of technology over the past decade. We’ve heard “experts” make bold predictions that have appeared to threaten the demand for used parts such as the ubiquity of autonomous vehicles, the disappearance of collisions, and the dominance of OEMs over the repair landscape.

The truth is that none of these claims have materialized and the outlook for the auto recycling industry is brighter than ever before. This session will challenge you to expand the horizons of your business strategy and lean into the changes taking place around us with a particular focus on the collision industry and backed by data from ‘my Mitchell International’ to identify trends and opportunities.

Automotive Recycling

BOOTH 301

Sponsors

eBay Hollander Car-Part.com GJ Sullivan 366 Processing Global Refining PMR URG Copart PGM of Texas Arrowhead General Insurance Agency, Inc. CCC WEN Industries United Catalyst Corp Peddle Parts Trader LLC Wolfpack Enterprises

Agenda Premiere Partner Premiere Partner Diamond Diamond Gold Gold Gold Gold Silver Silver Associate Associate Associate Associate Associate Associate Associate

HOTEL INFORMATION Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center 2345 McGee Street Kansas City, MO 64108 816.841.1000 Sheratonkansascityhotel.com

FOR FULL AGENDA, GO TO A-R-A.ORG/CONVENTION. FOLLOW LINKS TO THE OFFICIAL CONVENTION SITE.

Thursday, October 12

Auto Recycling Training Institute Meeting Affiliate Chapters Meeting Annual Convention Educational Programming Committee Interchange Committee Industry Relations Committee Awareness Committee Government Affairs Committee MATR Board/Member Meeting Certification Committee ARA Annual Membership/Board Meeting Opening Keynote Ribbon Cutting & Past President’s Reception/Expo Opening International Networking Reception (by invitation only)

Friday, October 13

New Member Welcome Meeting Welcome, Friday Highlights and Awards General Session: Recycler Keynote Is the U.S. Facing a Shredded Scrap Shortage New CAR Member Success Stories: How & Why Building for the Future – People, Processes, Profit Credit Card Best Practices Panel High Level EV Battery Panel How to Make SHIFT Work for Your Vehicles Needs Self-Service Safety Panel Opportunities and Resources for Today’s Independent Operator Tech Talks: Car-Part.com Einstein/Hotlines Hollander Buddy Automotive EZ Suite Self Service VinMatchPro URG Power DB Networking & Awards Dinner Presidents Hospitality

Saturday, October 14 For the best rate, please secure your reservation through the ARA Hotel Reservations link on the official convention website. Go to a-r-a.org/ convention and follow the links to the site.

You will receive a reservation link within your registration confirmation.

Please note: The ARA room block will close on September 15, 2023.

Please secure accommodations before this date to ensure the best rates possible.

www.a-r-a.org/convention 34 // July-August 2023

General Session: Recycler Keynote Exposition Open w/Brunch Recycler’s Roundtable Operation EV Panel Do’s & Don’ts of Brokering and Tiering Parts Grading & Inventory Best Practices Self-Service Secrets Second Life Battery Panel Being Your Customer’s First Choice Management by the Numbers Operating a Hybrid Facility Have We Been Doing it Wrong All This Time?

Selling Airbags on eBay Motors Do You Understand the Game?

Towing & Vehicle Recovery Panel Techniques to Increase Gross Sales Estate Planning & Succession Self-Service: Marketing & Advertising CLOSER: Recap & Takeaways Departure to Facility Tours: Vander Haags and Midway Automotive Recycling

Expertise ON THE GRID

The 80th Annual ARA Exposition brings the industry together to network with these industry vendors attending: 366 Processing Inc. Booth # 201

5115 E. Hwy 80 Somerset, KY 42501 (256) 499-0264 Contact: Lyn Johnston

ljohnston@366processing.com www.366processing.com

Accurate Converter Booth # 301

133 Maple St. Stoughton, MA 02072 (781) 503-3090 Contact: Harrison Balder

harrison@accurateconverter.com www.accurateconverter.com

Advanced Powertrain Solutions Booth # 803

P.O. Box 979 Carrollton, TX 75006 (972) 417-2580 Contact: David Walker

davidwalker@aermfg.com www.aermanufacturing.com

Amwins Program Underwriters Booth # 820

2400 E. Katella Ave., Ste. 500 Anaheim, CA 92653 (714) 221-9570 Contact: Sue Scurti

sue.scurti@amwins.com www.amwins.com

16 via Maria Theresa Manitou Springs, CO 80829 (727) 612-0229 Contact: Julie Cain

mdrews@etereman.com

Auto Data Direct, Inc. Booth # 304

1830 East Park Ave., Ste. 1 Tallahassee, FL 32301 (850) 877-8804 Contact: Roxanne Decker

marketing@add123.com www.add123.com

9113 Church St. Manassas, VA 20110 (571) 208-0428 Contact: Sandy Blalock

Booth # 701

15075 Al-Jon Ave. Ottumwa, IA 52501 (641) 682-4506 Contact: Curt Spry

curt.spry@candcmfg.net www.aljon.com 36 // July-August 2023

jgladd@brocksupply.com www.brocksupply.com

4949 West Brown Deer Rd. Milwaukee, WI 53223 (414) 586-0777 Contact: Megan Drews

Booth # 404

116 Johnny Cake Hill Middletown, RI 02842 (401) 225-5666 Contact: Joseph Hearn

Al-jon Manufacturing, LLC

2150 E. Rio Salado Pkwy.

Tempe, AZ 85288 (480) 968-2222 Contact: Jon Ladd

Buddy Automotive Innovations

Automotive Recyclers Association

jhearn@arscars.com www.arscars.com

Booth # 401

ATSG

Advanced Remarketing Services Booth # 914

Brock Supply

Booth # 819

sandy@a-r-a.org www.a-r-a.org

Blue Whale Materials Booth # 216

605 E 14th St. New York, NY 10009 (973) 715-1389 Contact: Ella DeBode

Booth # 523

julie@buddyai.com www.buddyai.com

Car-Part.com Booth # 315

1980 Highland Pike Fort Wright, KY 41017-8135 (859) 344-1925 Contact: Brian Stevens

brians@car-part.com www.car-part.com

CARVA

Booth # 408

1619 Front St. Lynden, WA 98264 Telephone: (360) 961-7516 Contact: Mike French

mike@carva.group

CashforCars.com Booth # 818

81 Apollo St., 4th Floor Brooklyn, NY 11222 (856) 287-2680 Contact: Aiden Sutkin

aiden.sutkin@copart.com www.cashforcars.com

edebode@bluewhalematerials.com www.bluewhalematerials.com

Automotive Recycling

CCC Intelligent Solutions, Inc. Booth # 214

167 N. Green St., 9th Floor Chicago, IL 60607 (708) 606-9000 Contact: Amy Kobel

akobel@cccis.com www.cccis.com

Commercial Forms Co., Inc. Booth # 321

P.O. Box 1859 Brighton, MI 48116 (810) 494-0964 Contact: Kris DiCarlo

kris@commercialforms.com www.commercialforms.com

Communications Consultants of Colorado Booth # 520

9738 Bucknell Ct. Highlands Ranch, CO 80129 (720) 542-6720 Contact: Kenneth Gurvin

Copart

EngineQuest LLC

14185 Dallas Pkwy., Ste. 300 Dallas, TX 75254 (972) 391-5759 Contact: Amanda Zmolek

2580 N. Commerce Street North Las Vegas, NV 89030 (702) 649-7776 Contact: Scott Stolberg

Booth # 816

amanda.zmolek@copart.com www.copart.com

Crow Environmental, Ltd. Booth # 323

89 Fairview Ln. Staunton, VA 24401 (540) 255-4909 Contact: Mason Smith

msseq@comcast.net www.crowenvironmental.net

eBay, Inc. Booth # 211

20215 Hamilton Ave. San Jose, CA 95125 (408) 376-6817 Contact: Garff Fitzgerald

garff.fitzgerald@ebay.com www.ebaymotors.com

Booth # 303

sjs@enginequest.com www.enginequest.com

ETE REMAN Booth # 402

8155 N 76th St. Milwaukee, WI 53223 (414) 586-0777 Contact: Megan Drews

mdrews@etereman.com www.etereman.com

EZ Suite Booth # 421

1220 North Main St. Mansfield, OH 44906 (419) 295-8511 Contact: Alex Bechstein

alex@ez-suite.com www.ez-suite.com

kgurvin@comconsultantsco.com https://comconsultantsco.com

Automotive Recycling

July-August 2023 // 37

G-Cor Automotive Booth # 422

2100 Refugee Rd. Columbus, OH 43207 (614) 603-5400 Contact: Jared Hund

j.hund@g-cor.com www.g-cor.com

Gensco Equipment Booth # 302

53 Carlaw Ave. Toronto, ON M4M 2R6 Canada (416) 465-7521 Contact: Ari Zelunka

ari@genscoequip.com www.genscoequip.com

Global Refining Group, Inc. Booth # 111

P.O. Box 625 Kenbridge, VA 23944 (877) 257-1404 Contact: Amber Kidd

amber@grgwest.com www.globalrefininggroup.com

Go Powertrain Booth # 527

6606 Rawley Pike Hinton, VA 22831 (540) 830-0286 Contact: Aaron Barnhart

aaron@go-powertrain.com www.go-powertrain.com

Greenland America, Inc. Booth # 800

1905 Woodstock Rd., Ste. 2200 Roswell, GA 34689 (770) 435-1100 Contact: Arianna Somerville

arianna@greenlandamerica.com www.greenlandamerica.com

Interco - A Metaltronics Recycler Booth # 417

5257 Shaw Ave., Ste. 302 St. Louis, MO 63110 (618) 501-0232 Contact: Bob Shallenberger

bobs@intercotradingco.com intercotradingco.com

InXpress Booth # 314

2817 West End Ave. #126 Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 880-8478 Contact: Tony Jenkins

tony.jenkins@inxpress.com

KB Cores Booth # 205

288 W South Tec Dr. Kankakee, IL 60901 (708) 243-0025 Contact: Matt Ruotsi

matt.ruotsi@kbcores.com www.kbcores.com

Lamb Fuels, Inc. Booth # 115

10723 Prospect Ave. Santee, CA 92071 (619) 421-0805 Contact: Jerry Hill

jerryh@lambfuels.com www.lambfuels.com

Lonewolf Petroleum Co. Booth # 906

1790 Hughes Landing Blvd., Ste. 400 The Woodlands, TX 77380 (217) 381-2193 Contact: Paige Johnson

busadmin@lonewolfpetro.com lonewolfpetro.com

Helluva Container

MCI/Maxcore Industries

2007 Jack Nicklaus Dr. Elk Point, SD 57025 (605) 356-2232 Contact: Emily Wells

1431 Kingsland Ave. St. Louis, MO 63133 (314) 581-2970 Contact: Mark Carr

Booth # 500

emily@helluva.com www.helluva.com

Hotlines, Inc. Booth # 415

427 E. Kanesville Blvd., Ste. 403 Council Bluffs, IA 51503 (866) 355-5350 Contact: Betsy Finnell

betsy@hotlinesinc.com www.partshotlines.com

38 // July-August 2023

Booth # 200

mark@mcicores.net www.maxcoreindustries.com

Missouri Auto and Truck Recycling Association Booth # 217

101 E. High St. Jefferson City, MO 65101 (573) 636-2822

Multimetco, Inc. Booth # 215

1610 Franklin Ave. Anniston, AL 36207 (256) 453-7821 Contact: Robin Roberts

robin@multimetco.com www.multimetco.com

Natural Ventures Booth # 305

2904 West 500 South Salt Lake City, UT 84104 (801) 633-4595 Contact: Brylan Schultz

brylan@natven.net https://natven.net

noble6 Booth # 410

25703 Jefferson Ave., #24 Murrieta, CA 92562 (619) 427-8540 Contact: Rich Pelletier

richp@pgmrecoverysystems.com www.pgmrecoverysystems.com

Online Parts Depot Booth # 204

122 Garnet Dr. Gilbertsville, PA 19525 (610) 513-7935 Contact: Matthew Hamlin

matthamlin@onlinepartsdepot.net www.onlinepartsdepot.net

OVB Holding, LLC dba OverBuilt Booth # 100

780 West Park Ave. NW Huron, SD 57350 (605) 352-6469 Contact: Steve Besch

steveb@overbuilt.com www.overbuilt.com

Peak Auto Auctions Booth # 316

5126 Brighton Blvd.

Denver, CO 80216 (850) 313-0469 Contact: Matt Davison

matt@peakautoauctions.com www.peakautoauctions.com

Peddle Booth # 711

111 W. 6th St., Ste. 300 Austin, TX 78701-3622 940367-5424 Contact: Meghan Anton

meghan.anton@peddle.com www.peddle.com

Contact: Sarah Goldman sgoldman@swllc.us.com

Automotive Recycling

PGM of Texas

Solera/Hollander

VIN Match Pro

2809 South IH35 San Marcos, TX 78666-5930 (512) 829-4194 Contact: Christina Mendez

1301 Solana Blvd.

Westlake, TX 76262-1675 (763) 519-3231 Contact: Kirk Monger

9910 Houston Ave. Hudson, FL 34667 (813) 380-3569 Contact: Holly Cahill

Booth # 705

christina@pgmoftexas.com www.pgmoftexas.com

Booth # 411

kirk.monger@hollanderparts.com www.hollandersolutions.com

Booth # 403

holly@vinmatchpro.com https://vinmatchpro.com

PMR, Inc.

SuperShear

Vortex De-Pollution

4640 Grande Allee Blvd.

Boisbriand, QC J7H 1S7 (450) 420-7361 Contact: Chrysten Newton

7235 E. Hampton #107 Mesa, AZ 85209 (480) 789-3893 Contact: Larry DeMIk

12445 E. 39th Ave., Ste. 506 Denver, CO 80239 (303) 900-4040 Contact: Nigel Dove

Booth # 517

chrysten@pmrcc.com www.pmrcc.com/en

Booth # 406

ldemik@supershears.com www.supershears.com

R. M. Johnson Co. EZ Crusher

Team PRP - Premium Recycled Parts

18032 Firelight Dr. N Cold Spring, MN 56302 (320) 267-3672 Contact: Larry Donnay

14 Frenchman’s Key Williamsburg, VA 23185 (800) TeamPRP Contact: Ray Coker

Booth # 518

larryd@ezcrusher.com www.ezcrusher.com

Rebuilders Automotive Supply Company, Inc. (RAS) Booth # 429

1650 Flat River Rd. Coventry, RI 02816 (401) 822-3030 Contact: Lindsey Anthony

lanthony@coresupply.com www.coresupply.com

Redwood Materials Booth # 811

2801 Lockheed Way Carson City, NV 89706 (770) 905-6242 Contact: Justin Butera

justin.butera@redwoodmaterials.com redwoodmaterials.com

Salvage Link Solutions Booth # 815

8308 NW 62nd St. Oklahoma City, OK 73132 (405) 877-5465 Contact: Brian Cullen

Booth # 927

raycoker@teamprp.com www.teamprp.com

Booth # 327

12 Webb Dr. Merrimack, NH 03054 (603) 883-7400 Contact: Jim Hyde

info@wenindustries.com www.wenindustries.com

5605 FM 423, Suite 500-341 Frisco, TX 75036 (972) 838-8057 Contact: Parker Mitchell

2145 Hamilton Ave. San Jose, CA 95125 (914) 697-9417 Contact: Dave Young

Booth # 926

info@texnrewards.com www.texnrewards.com

United Catalyst Corporation Booth # 221

100 Industrial Blvd.

Fountain Inn, SC 29644 (864) 834-2003 Contact: Human Resources

hr@unitedcatalystcorporation www.unitedcatalystcorporation.com

United Recyclers Group, LLC Booth # 504

5353 Williams Dr., Ste. 105 Georgetown, TX 78633 (303) 367-4391 Contact: Amanda Morrison

SEDA Environmental LLC

VET Environmental Engineering, LLC

135 Walter Way Fayetteville, GA 30214 (770) 681-0474 Contact: Bruce Henderson

2335 West Fountain Dr. Bloomington, IN 47404 (812) 822-0400 Contact: Elizabeth Grubb

40 // July-August 2023

WEN INDUSTRIES

WHI Solutions, Inc. an eBay co.

amorrison@u-r-g.com www.u-r-g.com

info@seda-usa.com www.seda-usa.com

nigel@vortexdepollution.com www.vortexdepollution.com

Texn Rewards

salvagelinksolutions@gmail.com

Booth # 307

Booth # 514

Booth # 502

dyoung@whisolutions.com

Wolfpack Enterprises Booth # 805

194 Seminary Hill Rd. Manchester, TN 37355 (931) 954-6184 Contact: Hal Hoke

wolfpackenterprises@hotmail.com https://wolfpack-enterprises.business.site/

Yardsmart Booth # 203

5111 Old Midlothian Pike Richmond, VA 23224 (804) 233-5481 Contact: Troy Webber

twebber@capco.info

Booth # 813

elizabeth@vet-env.com www.vet-env.com

Automotive Recycling

HIRING

IT’S A DIFFERENT KIND OF RACE

SLOW FA ST THEN

The best strategy to take in finding and keeping the ideal employees is to hire slow and fire fast.

iStockphoto.com/Byrdyak/eve01genesis

H 42 // July-August 2023

By Jessica Lorello

iring the right employees is crucial for the success of any business, surely, we all have learned this lesson in our business journey. The question becomes “How do you hire the right employees?” The first tip I can give you is to adopt the mantra of “hire slow, fire fast,” You are reading that and immediately are thinking, “Hire slow? … but I need employees YESTERDAY!” I hear you loud and clear, but what if I could give you tools to help you in your hiring process to hire QUALITY employees that you can retain so you aren’t put in a position of hiring someone who might not show up to work on the first day. This process will not go at a pace that makes you comfortable, in fact it will be very uncomfortable because it will be very slow. But a slow pace of hiring can significantly improve your chances of finding the right fit for your organization, improve retention, improve employee engagement, and if you can imagine it, lower your worries and stresses.

The hire slow process looks a little bit like this: • Define job requirements clearly: Before beginning the hiring process, take the time to clearly define the specific job requirements and qualifications necessary for success in the position. This will help you attract candidates who are genuinely qualified and have a genuine interest in the industry.

• Do some research on job search platforms: Make sure it fits for the position you are searching for.

• Create a realistic timeline and process for the search: The longer the timeline, the better. Then if you find someone sooner, you will surprise yourself. Make sure to notify all the people who will be a part of the hiring process ahead of time. Share with them the needs of the role and the expectation of their feedback as it relates to candidates.

• Thoroughly review resumes and applications: When reviewing resumes and applications, pay close attention to relevant work experience, and anything else specific to the job that might make them stand out, such as certifications and educational background. Look for candidates who have transferable skills that align with Automotive Recycling

the job requirements. Consider shortlisting candidates who possess a combination of relevant experience and a willingness to learn and adapt.

• Conduct In-Depth Interviews: This can be phone interviews, virtual interviews, and/or in person interviews.

Interviews provide valuable insights into a candidate’s personality, work ethic, and problem-solving abilities.

Structure interviews to include both behavioral and situational questions that assess the candidate’s ability to handle challenges commonly faced in your industry.

Encourage candidates to provide specific examples from their past experiences to gauge their practical knowledge and problem-solving skills.

• Utilize pre-employment tests and assessments: This might be a time that they come in to work alongside another employee doing parts of the job they will be required to do. This allows for employee feedback on the candidate, which promotes employee engagement, and it gives the candidate an idea of what the job will be before they even start. [As an HR professional, I need to tell you, you are required to pay for all hours worked, so you will need to pay the candidate for the time they are working.

It is a small fee for a big payoff.]

• Check references and verify credentials: Contact the references provided by the candidate to gain insights into their past performance, reliability, and work ethic. Verify their educational background, certifications, and licenses, especially when these qualifications are critical to the role.

This step helps ensure you hire employees with the necessary qualifications and minimizes the risk of potential misrepresentation.

See what I mean? This isn’t an overnight process, but I have experience in this. You will reap the benefits of taking your time and hiring people that truly want to work with your business. Here’s another quick tip, just because a candidate doesn’t work out now, doesn’t mean they won’t work out later. Here’s the scenario: You have two really great candidates, but you can only hire one.

Hire one and then keep in touch with the other candidate.

Set up monthly meetings to check in, maybe go to lunch.

You are building a relationship with this person, and they will be more likely to give you 100% and be retained when you do have a position open for them. It takes work, it is not easy, there is no “quick fix,” you must put in the work if you want good people working for your business.

The Flip Side The mantra “hire slow, fire fast” has a part two – fire fast. Firing people or even talking about firing people is always a little uncomfortable. As it should be, firing someone can change the trajectory of their life.

But if they are not performing to the standards of the position or if they are not upholding the policies of the company, fire fast.

Have you ever heard the saying “one bad apple can spoil the bunch?” This is actually true! If good apples are Automotive Recycling

Hire slow, fire fast. It is a mantra that could change your business success. in the bag with one rotten apple, the rotten apple emits gases that makes the good apples start to rot. This is true in your workforce. If your one “bad apple” is under performing and not getting noticed, then your “good apples” are going to start to become under performers as well.

The thought being “I am working hard and not getting noticed, and they are barely working and not getting noticed, so I am not going to work hard anymore.”

One bad apple can, in fact, spoil the bunch. Fire fast so your bunch is not spoiled.

Now let’s take a pause because this is not to say that we need to walk around firing everyone. There is a way to be intentional and speedy in this process, this is the part where we get to move quick.

• Make sure you have a disciplinary process and policy in your employee handbook. That ensures there are minimal surprises when it comes to what measures are being taken for the employee and the employer.

• When we notice an issue, we need to address it on the spot. Communicate early and often. It may be worth doing an exercise with management to decide what is something that needs to be addressed on the spot versus something that can wait until a performance review.

• If there are repetitive issues, get a second opinion.

Are the issues egregious enough for termination? Is that apple spoiling the bunch? If so, move quick.

• It is important to understand the laws as it relates to termination in your state. Are you an “at will” employment state? Do you have to pay for unused time off?

These are things an HR professional can help you with, but certainly something to keep in mind.

Hire slow, fire fast. It is a mantra that could change your business success. Once you adopt the mantra, give yourself six months to see results. You will be proud of yourself, proud of your team, and you will notice a big difference in how your employees engage at work. People want to know that they matter to the greater purpose of the company. They want to know that they are seen for the work they are doing, and by hiring great people through a slow process, and getting rid of the bad apples quickly, your employees will have a greater respect for you and the company.

Join the race. Slow, then fast. You will come out the winner.

Jessica Lorello, PHR, has a strong, diverse background in operations, leadership, administration, research, and management. Jessica has worked in an HR role in higher education, hospitality, and healthcare. Currently, she is working as a Fractional HR professional with Employers Advantage, LLC as a HR Generalist working with clients all across the U.S. and in various industries.

July-August 2023 // 43

BUSINESS

A

SSIN E S S G

THE BEST

Employment assessments are one tool that auto recyclers can use to identify the ideal candidates to fill roles in their companies.

iStockphoto.com/marchmeena29

T 44 // July-August 2023

By Maura Keller

he second employee in six months just gave their notice. They said they are leaving for better pay, better hours, better benefits, or better advancement opportunities.

When employees leave a company, there is often a gaping hole to fill. And while the task of recruitment and hiring can be daunting, employee assessments, which primarily involve preemployment tests, quizzes, and activities to assess and evaluate an employee’s ability to perform a specific skill or their fit for a particular job, also are vital components of every business’ success and can dramatically affect your bottom line.

“Business owners and human resources staff should consider using employment assessments as a way to improve the accuracy and efficiency of their hiring process,” says Jonathan Westover, managing partner and principal at Human Capital Innovations. “Assessments can help employers identify the best candidates for the job, ensure a good fit between the candidate and the company culture, and reduce the risk of hiring mistakes.

Additionally, assessments can help identify areas where employees may need additional training or development, leading to overall improvements in the workforce.”

According to Jason Leverant, president and chief operating officer at AtWork Group, employment assessments provide results that are generally designed to assist a hiring manager in making a better hire, and while it does add a step to the hiring process, the positive impact that assessments can make includes accelerating the hiring process.

“That positive impact makes employment assessments a standard tool in most hiring manager’s toolboxes, and have become prevalent throughout the HR world,” Leverant says.

The vast majority of assessments are administered electronically, using “software as a service” tools such as eSkill, Prove-It, or the multitude of other, similar platforms to quickly administer tests to applicants.

As Leverant explains, these assessments typically come in the form of a skills test or a quiz, but there are quite a few personality-based assessments that are much more in-depth and provide much more detailed information back to the administrator. These types of assessments Automotive Recycling

are typically administered online, using partners such as DISC, Wonderlic, or Predictive Index.

“Employment assessments are a great tool to help identify the best candidate for a position. Whether it be a cultural, personality fit, or a basic requirement of a granular skill, employment assessments can help you make objective decisions on who to hire, especially when you’ve got multiple closely ranked candidates that could all make a good fit for your organization,” Leverant says.

“These types of assessments will help quickly identify the best of the best.”

Testing for Fit When looking for testing criteria, it is helpful to decide which test will identify a candidate’s ability to fit into a workplace culture. Barbara Spector, CEO and President of Smart Moves, Inc. points out that there are different types of pre-employment assessments, including: COGNITIVE ASSESSMENTS: These tests evaluate a candidate’s mental abilities, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, logical reasoning, and numerical or verbal skills. They provide insights into an individual’s ability to learn, adapt, and perform tasks required for the job.

PERSONALITY ASSESSMENTS: These assessments gauge an individual’s personality traits, characteristics, and behavioral tendencies. They help employers understand how a candidate may interact with colleagues, handle stress, communicate, and approach work-related situations. Personality testing in a practical application plays a crucial role not in the candidate’s capacity to learn and apply the necessary information, but more so in the candidate’s willingness to perform their future job on a daily basis. Fitting in with the ever-unique company culture is another vital aspect for long-term employment and effective workplace communication that is measured by a well-constructed personality assessment.

SKILLS ASSESSMENTS: These tests measure a candidate’s specific job-related skills and competencies. They assess technical knowledge, proficiency in software applications, language proficiency, or any other skills relevant to the position.

INTEGRITY AND APTITUDE TESTS: These assessments evaluate a candidate’s ethical values, honesty, reliability, and attitudes toward workplace behavior. They help employers identify individuals who are likely to engage in misconduct or exhibit unethical behavior.

“Once a candidate is hired, employers may also use employment assessments to evaluate an employee’s performance, identify areas for development, or make decisions regarding promotions, transfers, or training opportunities,” Spector says. “These assessments can help organizations effectively manage talent and improve overall workforce productivity.”

Spector adds that it’s important to note that while employment and pre-employment assessments provide Automotive Recycling

valuable insights, they should not be the sole determining factor in hiring decisions. They should be used in conjunction with other hiring practices, such as interviews, reference checks, and work samples, to form a comprehensive evaluation of a candidate’s suitability for a specific role.

“Overall, employment assessments provide valuable insights into candidates’ abilities, potential, and fit with the job and organization. By incorporating these assessments into the hiring process, business owners and HR staff can make more informed and effective hiring decisions, leading to improved workforce productivity, reduced turnover, and better organizational outcomes,” Spector says. “Business owners and HR staff should consider using employment assessments for several reasons.”

Spector says these include: OBJECTIVE EVALUATION: Employment assessments provide an objective and standardized way to evaluate candidates’ qualifications and potential job performance.

They offer a fair and consistent method of comparison among applicants, reducing biases and subjectivity in the hiring process.

“Overall, employment assessments provide valuable insights into candidates’ abilities, potential, and fit with the job and organization.”

—Barbara Spector, CEO and President of Smart Moves, Inc.

PREDICTIVE VALIDITY: Well-designed employment assessments have been validated through research to accurately predict job performance. By using these assessments, employers can identify candidates who are likely to succeed in specific roles, reducing the risk of hiring individuals who may not meet job requirements or perform poorly.

TIME AND COST EFFICIENCY: Assessments can help streamline the hiring process by efficiently screening candidates. By assessing candidates’ skills and abilities upfront, employers can identify top performers and focus their resources on interviewing and selecting the most promising candidates. This saves time and reduces the costs associated with a lengthy hiring process.

JOB FIT AND PERFORMANCE: Employment assessments enable employers to evaluate a candidate’s fit with the job requirements and organizational culture. Assessments can assess not only cognitive abilities but also personality traits, behavioral tendencies, and job-specific skills. This helps identify individuals who align well with the job and the company, leading to higher job satisfaction, engagement, and performance.

July-August 2023 // 45

REDUCING TURNOVER: Hiring the right candidates who are well-suited for the job and the organization can significantly reduce employee turnover. Employment assessments can help identify candidates who possess the necessary skills, competencies, and traits for long-term success, ultimately contributing to employee retention and reducing the costs associated with frequent hiring and onboarding.

COMPLIANCE AND LEGAL PROTECTION: Using standardized employment assessments can help organizations demonstrate fairness and compliance with equal employment opportunity (EEO) regulations. By utilizing validated assessments, employers can mitigate the risk of discriminatory hiring practices and potential legal challenges.

EMPLOYEE DEVELOPMENT: Assessments can also be used beyond the hiring process. Once employees are hired, assessments can help identify areas for development, determine training needs, and create personalized development plans. This enables businesses to invest in their employees’ growth, enhancing performance and promoting career advancement.

Strategies To Take Over the last three years, the U.S. labor market has suffered from extreme talent shortages. As Leverant points out, this demand for employees has lessened the use of employment assessments recently based off of the perceived impact it has on the recruiting and hiring process.

Many HR professionals, talent acquisition specialists, and recruiters shy away from using assessments because of the slowdown and potential limiting affect it can have on their talent flow.

“Ultimately, many people look at the results provided by an employment assessment as a pass/fail for a job,” Leverant says. “Instead, those results should be used as simply a piece, or component, of the decision-making process when you are contemplating to hire. Even more impactful, those same results can be used post-hire in order to help in your coaching and development of this employee. As a leader, isn’t that what we all strive to do?”

Consistency also is absolutely critical when using employment assessments within your organization. As a best practice, Leverant advises auto recyclers that many of the assessments on the market today allow you to assess your existing staff and start creating benchmarking for your organization.

“This benchmarking provides you with an objective viewpoint as to what works, and what doesn’t, within your company,” Leverant says. For example, if an employer wants to know what makes a great salesperson, a manager would look at their top performers and provide the employment assessments to them.

“I’d want to see what their scores are, and use those results as a bellwether to determine if a prospective employee is similar to my most effective/productive 46 // July-August 2023

employees,” Leverant says. “As an employer, you have to be very careful to not use employment assessments on a ‘case-by-case’ or ‘one-off’ basis. That will open up the potential for claims of discriminatory hiring practices. regardless of the fact that there is any basis for the claim or not.”

Westover says the best strategies for using employment assessments include selecting assessments that are relevant to the job requirements, using assessments in combination with other evaluation methods, and ensuring that the assessments are valid and reliable.

“Companies should also make sure that they are using assessments that are legally defensible and comply with Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) guidelines,” Westover says. “The ‘don’ts’ that companies need to keep in mind include avoiding assessments that are biased or discriminatory, relying solely on assessments to make hiring decisions, and failing to provide feedback to candidates about their assessment results.”

One common mistake that Westover says companies make in their use of employment assessments is relying too heavily on a single assessment or ignoring other factors that may impact job performance. It’s important to remember that assessments are just one part of the hiring process and should be used in combination with other evaluation methods. Another mistake is using assessments that are not valid or reliable, which can result in inaccurate assessments of candidates’ abilities.

“The current state of the economy has actually increased the need for employment assessments,” Westover says. “With more people looking for jobs, companies are receiving a larger number of applications for each position. Additionally, with many companies moving to remote work, assessments can help ensure that new hires have the skills and abilities to be successful in a virtual work environment.”

Employers should remember that employment assessments are just one tool in the hiring process.

Westover advises that companies should also consider other factors, such as experience, education, and references, when making hiring decisions. Additionally, employers should be transparent with candidates about the use of assessments and provide feedback to candidates about their results.

“Employment assessments can be a valuable tool for employers in the automotive recycling sector,” Westover says. “By using assessments in combination with other evaluation methods, selecting assessments that are relevant and reliable, and ensuring compliance with EEOC guidelines, companies can improve the accuracy and efficiency of their hiring process and build a stronger workforce.

Based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Maura Keller is a seasoned writer, editor, and published author, with more than 20 years of experience. She frequently writes for various regional and national publications.

Automotive Recycling

INTERVIEW

Recycler to Watch

By Caryn Smith

A Dream Come True

I

How one Daurio Auto and Truck employee found his place in America – and in the family.

n the auto recycling community, it is not unusual to see new hires come and go quickly, and seasoned employees jump to other pastures – and even some rare employees who stay for an entire career at one facility. Finding potential legacy employees is difficult, yet when you discover their dedication and passion for the business, you work hard to keep them.

Oftentimes, what keeps people at one facility for their duration of their career is the feeling of being a valued member of the “family.” Benefits like generous salary, healthcare, and vacation plans are great incentives. Yet, for many, the ultimate workplace benefit is finding a greater purpose in a place that values your wellbeing and offers growth potential as a person. This is something you cannot put a price tag on. That kind of culture is a signature mark of the automotive recycling industry worldwide as a business model that celebrates

Automotive Recycling

generational leadership and develops a family-style work culture.

When Mexican immigrant Jose Angel Valdez found himself employed through a series of circumstances at Daurio Auto and Truck in Pueblo, Colorado, at 19 years old, he didn’t realize his pursuit of his American Dream would result in such a purposeful life. Jose and his wife Maxine Valdez acquired their citizenship and built a life for themselves, their children, and grandchildren, inside of the automotive recycling community.

When John Daurio, patriarch of the business, met Jose and hired him on the same day in 1984, he was willing to give this kid a chance, seeing his eagerness to work and despite language barriers. From this, a life-long friendship developed, based on mutual loyalty and respect, that spanned 39 years until John’s passing on June 20, 2022. Jose’s unparalleled work ethic, and his dedication to John and the business, is something special to note.

July-August 2023 // 47

This is a life that Jose, now 61, is extremely grateful to have found as an employee of Daurios, and in his current role as the facility’s Operations Manager. He is the longest serving employee in the company.

Automotive Recycling magazine caught up with Jose Angel Valdez and Nick Daurio, now owner of Daurio Auto and Truck, with his brother Mike Daurio and son Greg Daurio, to share this inspirational story of personal and professional achievement. The duo shared the unexpected benefits that they experienced by John giving someone a chance despite obstacles.

Beginnings of a Team In 1955, John Daurio started the auto recycling business on Pueblo, Colorado’s east side. After moving the location, a total of three times, in 1971 they settled into their current 8th Street location. Daurio Auto and Truck is now an ARA Certified Automotive Recycler that encompasses 30 acres in four lots, with entire buildings devoted to specific parts – and nothing touching the ground.

But in the beginning, it was a blank slate of empty ground. While times were lean as John built out the infrastructure, around this time a simple deal with Don Ware of Don’s Sportcar, another new business nearby, changed everything. When they each landed insurance contracts, they agreed for Don to take the foreign vehicles and John to take the American ones – a deal still in place today and made on a handshake. This is how John did business.

Over time, the business expanded as professional automotive recyclers. While John was busy building the business, Jose was in Mexico with curiosity about America.

Jose shows his water room construction handywork with pride.

48 // July-August 2023

Coming to America “In 1980, a friend and I came across the border legally from Mexico,” remembers Jose. “We didn’t know anything, you know. We just came across for two or

three weeks to work a little bit here and there. I started working in the fields, farming vegetables. We first came to see what the U.S. is like; we were not planning on staying here. Three months later, he went back to Mexico, and I ended up here. My idea was to get a better life for me and my family in Mexico.”

The priority was to get steady work, but Jose ran into obstacles. “When I look back, nobody wanted to hire me because I was so young. I was a kid. I knew little English.

But I needed a job to get my green card. So finally, after a few years of field work, a man named Thomas hired me and helped me to get my green card. He helped me a lot,” says Jose. As a result, several years later Jose was able to apply for his U.S. citizenship.

During the green card process, the applicant must return to their home country. When Jose came back from Mexico after receiving his, the only jobs available were day laborer jobs. Living in a poorer subdivision in Pueblo, there seemed to be no way out of this situation.

Fortunately, Jose met his wife while in the U.S. and they made plans to build their future here. His wife had begun working at a restaurant (and she still works there today, 40 years later, for the now second-generation owners).

The couple had their first daughter, and Jose decided to think outside the box to secure a better work situation for himself.

“One day, I was walking in a neighborhood thinking about what to do, and I saw a house and thought maybe I could do some work there,” says Jose. “I rang the doorbell, and this lady came out. She didn’t know Spanish, but she asked me what I needed. So, I told her that I was looking for steady work and I was reliable. She asked me to wait one minute and went back to the house. A man came out, Mr. John Mendoza, and he knew some Spanish. I told him about my situation. So, he hired me.”

Jose worked for Mr. Mendoza for about three months doing projects around his house. Impressed with his work ethic, when he didn’t have any more work for Jose, he said, “I want to take you to meet one of my best friends and I know he will hire you right then.” So, he introduced me to Mr. John Daurio, and his family.

Based on the referral, John hired him to do some maintenance. “I’ve now been working for Daurio Auto and Truck since April 19, 1984 – for 39 years. I didn’t know anything about auto recycling. As the days go by, you know, I learned. Every day, I am thankful for the way they treat me and my family,” says Jose.

“The first job when I start working for John, he had me working on transmissions,” Jose laughs. “But, before I did any work the first day, he took me to lunch. John said, ‘I’m gonna take you to lunch first, because I am going to work you hard.’’’

Nick Daurio, now owner of Daurio’s, chimes in laughing. “So, that means John gave him a pretty nasty job. We had the school buses where we kept transmissions, at that time everybody was storing parts in buses.

Automotive Recycling

The team at Daurio Auto and Truck.

It needed organizing and cleaning. It was probably not a good job to start with for Jose, but I think John’s purpose on that was, we’re going to find out what kind of worker he really is.”

“Yes. I wanted to work that same day, too, because I didn’t want him to change his mind,” Jose adds. “John didn’t speak Spanish, so the conversation at lunch was a lot of pointing at things. Over time, we understood each other pretty well and got a sense of each other because we really connected the first day.” Not really knowing how long this job would last, Jose felt this would last a long time based on the connection he had with John his first day.

A Job Well Done, Always Jose started in a janitorial position. Besides cleaning out the bus, anything else that needed done for cleanup, he did. The more the facility started shining, the more work Jose took on. He learned how to speak English a little bit at a time. So those first couple years, Jose mainly worked on projects, whether it was fixing anything that needed fixing, to building shelving, putting racks in, or helping John build buildings. Later, Jose is proud to have built a washroom where all the facility’s water is completely recycled through a machine.

Eventually, Jose moved into parts inventory, putting them on shelves. He learned all the Hollander numbers and rack locations. “As he went through that process,” Nick notes, “then he started doing deliveries during the day before we had our current full-service delivery system.”

“He continued to improve at inventory, as time progressed,” says Nick. “Yet, if we needed a building painted, lights fixed, remodeling, plumbing – it didn’t matter what we needed to get done for the facility – building fences, gates, and buildings – Jose was involved with John and several others to do building projects. In the time Jose has Automotive Recycling

been working here, he has continually worked his way up the ladder. He has done every job at the facility, except sales, and can operate all the equipment we have on site.”

“He is there if a delivery driver is needed or if cars need to be torn down,” says Nick, “especially during COVID when everybody was short on help. He’s even operated our tow truck a time or two when we needed him or had to clean up a big accident scene. Whatever he does, it is always right the first time, with little if any oversight. And it is done with pride.”

His pride and work ethic are apparent. Jose shows up to work every day with a clean uniform, and he is always prepared for any type of situation or weather if working outside. “In his 39 years, other than vacations, Jose has never called in sick one time, according to the company’s yearly attendance records,” notes Nick.

Now as Daurio Auto and Truck’s Operations Manager, Jose manages all facility projects and needs. “If there is a facility problem or improvement to be made, Jose is our go-to person that makes it happen,” says Nick.

He also lends a hand mentoring employees and keeping the well-documented procedures and processes adhered to. “I feel good to help others, to teach them what I learned from the company and to have pride in their work,” says Jose.

“He’s been a great mentor to the people that work here,” says Nick. “He’s been here the longest. They all have a tremendous amount of respect for him. And they know that whatever he is training them to do, that’s the way it needs to be done for them to perform their jobs. In our desired culture, it should be done right the first time.”

“As an employee, if he sees something that isn’t being done correctly, he will take the time to educate the person on the correct way, in a positive manner. If it still isn’t corrected by the individual, at that point in time we will have a bigger conversation. He’s setting a great example July-August 2023 // 49

“Yeah. Sometimes John would want me to do certain things his way, you know,” laughs Jose. “I used to tell him, ‘Well, I think this way looks better.’ Insisting on his way, he would say, ‘whenever you get done come and get me, I want to see how it looks.’ So, I would get it done and go get him. He looks and says, ‘You know what? I think you were right. Do it your way.’ So, I must start over. … That was fun, I enjoyed that.”

Making the Most of America

Jose and thirdgeneration recycler Greg Daurio discuss the business amongst racked inventory.

for our team and helps us to uphold the professional standards we have in place for our facility.”

Parallel Friendship Emerges In Jose’s workday, he usually was working side by side with John who directed the projects. Over time, it created an unusual friendship that became quite remarkable.

“John and Jose worked closely together every day, and their bond just kept getting stronger over time – and not only in our family, but in his family, as well,” says Nick.

“The relationship that formed over this timeframe was not only a new employer to an employee, but it turned into a best friend and a father-son relationship,” Nick

The bond that he’s basically started with my dad years ago, has continued with my brother, Mike, and I, and now my son, Greg. That mutual loyalty has transferred from down from one generation to the next. – Nick Daurio shares. “John and Jose basically became best buddies.

They would even do activities on weekends together, like go out to dinner with their wives.”

“The bond that he’s basically started with my dad years ago, has continued with my brother, Mike, and I, and now my son, Greg,” he continues. “So as the generations have changed through the years in the leadership here, he’s followed that because I feel that my brother and I, along with my son, show him the same respect that John did. That mutual loyalty has transferred from down from one generation to the next.”

When asked if John and Jose ever disagreed, Nick says to Jose, “Like when John would tell you to do something, and you would disagree. And then you’d mentioned it to him. Then it wouldn’t go right. And then you’d say I told you so, John.”

50 // July-August 2023

Jose originally came to America to benefit his family in Mexico, mostly his mother who still resides in Zacatecas, Mexico. “I still send her a monthly check, to help her out.

That was one of the reasons that I came to the U.S., to help her and I still do it. We applied for her resident green card 20 years ago, so she can come in and out to the U.S. anytime she wants to. She’s now 78.” Jose is the oldest of his siblings that include four sisters. Three live in Mexico and one in Texas.

In America, at 19, just after starting work at Daurio’s, he and his wife Maxine bought their first house. Around 15 years later, it was paid off. Originally, it was a single level house, but he dug out the basement by hand with pick, shovel, and wheelbarrow over 11 months, and also added a two-car garage in the backyard, and a carport.

They raised two daughters in that home, and he was able to save and pay for their schooling. They both were educated through college, debt free. One is a certified nursing assistant and the other is a dental hygienist. The couple now has three grandsons and two granddaughters, and most of the family lives close by.

Being super industrious, he also has a side business.

“About seven years ago I started working during on my lunch for about an hour or so, where I will go mow a lawn, rake leaves, or shovel snow in someone’s yard. On weekends I still do work for homeowners.”

“He’s developed a large clientele for that,” says Nick, “I have several friends and customers, that he works for on the side. He’s very responsible on whatever he does.

The value of craftmanship that he brings to any of his work is reflected in his success.”

Commenting on his pride over Jose’s accomplishments, Nick says, “Coming from Mexico with nothing, I thought this would be a tremendous story on his achievements as an immigrant, the way he came here properly and responsibly, and how his dedication to excellence has benefited him and his family. I am grateful for the loyalty and honesty that he has shown our family for all these years.”

“As a person, we are proud of how he and his wife have raised two children, educated them through college, and even helped to educate his grandkids that have wanted to go to school,” he says. “He has a great retirement program and is very dedicated to it, along with our other benefits. They go to church most every Saturday night and have their date night together still.”

Automotive Recycling

Nick Daurio, right, and Jose stand on the lawn of the home once owned by John and Charlene Daurio, and is now the home of the Valdez couple.

“My father was very strong-willed, very opinionated,” shares Nick. “But his story was like Jose’s when it comes down to it. He grew up poor, his dad immigrated from Italy. My grandfather’s brother was in the U.S. And at 15, my grandfather wanting to join him could not afford the ship passage here, and so he snuck onto a ship and hid in a barrel for several days until he knew it was too late, and they couldn’t turn back. When getting to Ellis Island, he couldn’t speak English, only Italian. Someone handed him a ticket to Pueblo, CO after being released from Ellis Island quarantine, and he got a job here farming.”

An Unusual Question The tight bond that Jose and John shared led to yet another unusual instance. John passed away last year on June 20, 2022. “After my father passed,” says Nick, “I asked Jose, ‘Would you possibly be interested in buying my dad’s house and moving into it?’ His reaction was shock, probably … and accomplishment and pride.”

He and his wife talked it over, and on February 18, 2023,

52 // July-August 2023

they purchased John and Charlene Daurio’s house. “I couldn’t be prouder of him and happier for him,” says Nick. “I know that my dad would be happy, and my mother just loved him, as well.

So, we’ve journeyed into that now. I just think it’s a tremendous story, you know, on the success that he has had and the impact that he’s made on our lives – and my mother and father’s life. It is amazing.”

On owning the house, Jose says to Nick, “I thank you guys and you are my family. And I’m really happy to be in the house, and I enjoy it every second. I'm really happy to be there. I am sure John and his wife are happy, too.”

“You know, anything that we’ve ever done with one another, we’ve done it because we loved each other,” shares Nick. “And we cared for one another. And for the recycling business that we’ve been involved in, it’s created a lifelong friendship as well as a valued employeeemployer relationship. That couldn’t have been better.

It has made me so proud of how he has succeeded in life.”

“I love what I do here,” says Jose. “It is a dream come true.”

Automotive Recycling

Advertiser’s Index

Company.........................................................................................................Website..........................................................................Ad Pg. No. Amwins Program Underwriters.................................................. amwins.com/apu............................................................ 21 Accurate Converter....................................................................... accurateconverter.com.................................................. 33 Airbag Recycler Settlement......................................................... airbagrecyclersettlement.com...................................... 27 APFusion......................................................................................apfusion.com...............................................................IFC ARA 80th Annual Convention & Expo...................................a-r-a.org/convention................................................. IBC ATSG.............................................................................................atsg.com........................................................................ 51 Buddy Automotive Innovations...............................................buddyai.com.................................................................29 Carolina Wheel Cover...............................................................ineedahubcap.com......................................................53 Car-Part.com...............................................................................car-part.com.................................................................BC CCC Intelligent Solutions, Inc..................................................cccis.com/recyclers..................................................... 16 Copart...........................................................................................copart.com/autorecyclers........................................... 14 CRUSH/S3 Software Solutions, LLC........................................s3softwaresolutions.com............................................. 7 Dorman Products, Inc................................................................dormanproducts.com.................................................... 5 ETE REMAN................................................................................... etereman.com................................................................. 23 Gensco............................................................................................ genscoequip.com/auto-recycling-equipment............ 41 Induction Innovations...............................................................theinductor.com........................................................... 15 MarkingPenDepot.com..............................................................markingpendepot.com................................................52 Midwest Gas...............................................................................midwestgas.us.............................................................53 Multimetco..................................................................................multimetco.com............................................................37 New Pig........................................................................................newpig.com/autorecyclers.........................................19 Noble6..........................................................................................noble6.com...................................................................27 PGM of Texas..............................................................................pgmoftexas.com........................................................... 17 PMR..............................................................................................pmrcc.com.....................................................................35 Supershear..................................................................................supershears.com.......................................................... 11 United Catalyst Corporation.....................................................unitedcatalystcorporation.com.................................39 United Recyclers Group............................................................u-r-g.com......................................................................25 Vander Haag’s, Inc.....................................................................vanderhaags.com........................................................53 We Buy Key Fobs...........................................................................webuykeyfobs.com....................................................... 20 Wolfpack Enterprises.....................................................................wolfpack-enterprises.business.site............................ 52

Automotive Recycling

Advertise!

Contact Caryn Smith and Jay Mason for your Customized Marketing Plan to reach ARA Member decision-makers with your advertising!

Call (239) 223-9408 or email jay@drivenbydesign.net

July-August 2023 // 53

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Send your photo(s) as high resolution JPG format, along with a description or identification of the people/things included to ARAEditor@comcast.net.

Sail Away with ARA

O

ne of the most critical parts of growing your business is networking with other owners/operators. Networking involves building relationships, establishing connections, and fostering mutually beneficial collaborations with individuals and organizations.

As a business owner, your network can be a valuable asset, offering a plethora of opportunities that can contribute to your company’s growth and prosperity.

ARA recognizes the importance of the networking environment.

We see it every year at our annual convention and expo. So much business happens in the hallways, restaurants, and bars. ARA has decided we would create some fun events specifically for networking.

The first one this year was a day of sailing on a luxury yacht in Annapolis, Maryland.

The event’s unofficial start was on Friday, June 23rd when Greg Condon held an open house at his facility in Westminster, Maryland. Greg is a very active member with ARA, the founder of the Professional Salvage Yard Information Forum, and for the past six decades, Condon’s Auto Parts has built a reputation as a trusted supplier of auto parts for customers in Baltimore, Washington, D.C. and across Northern Virginia. We appreciated his hospitality!

54 // July-August 2023

NEXT UP: On September 10th, ARA members are headed offshore near Galveston, Texas for deep sea fishing.

Email Vince@a-r-a.org if you are interested in attending an outing or have an idea for one.

Read the ARA 360 eNewsletter for future announcements.

Automotive Recycling

® – Recycled Original Equipment ®

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