YANG Mentorship Program
The YANG Mentorship Program is designed for young professionals in the automotive aftermarket who are passionate about their growth and development.
The program provides opportunities for members to focus on personal and professional goals, while acquiring the tools to become tomorrow’s leaders.
The 2024 YANG Mentorship Program is closed. Applications for 2025 will open in November.
How It Works:
How It Works:
Each mentee will be assigned to a Mentorship Circle that will meet once per quarter in 2024. Each group will consist of approximately five mentees and one mentor and will be focused on a unique topic. Groups will be assigned during the YANG Mentorship Program Kick-Off Meeting in January.
The goal of these Mentorship Circles is for YANG mentees to experience all three YANG pillars in one program:
Networking
Create strong and long-lasting relationships within your circle.
Professional Development
Learn from your peers and also from a current leader in the industry.
Giving Back
Help others in your circle by offering your opinions and perceptions to various topics and situations.
Through this unique, small-group mentorship program, mentees will benefit from the wisdom of experienced and successful aftermarket veterans, like:
Lance Boldt, Co-founder and Vice President, AutoNetTV Media
Lance Boldt is a co-founder and Vice President of AutoNetTV Media, creating consumer-facing service and repair videos for automotive service centers to be displayed in lobbies, at service counters, and on websites and DVI applications. The AutoNetTV network has grown to nearly 19,000 subscribers. Boldt focuses on messaging for these internal videos and developing video projects for industry clients. Boldt is a member of the ACA Marketing and Communications Committee and a past Automotive Communications Council president.
Topic
Work and Live: Survive and Thrive
Work is hard - Life is hard. So many variables are out of our control. In this Circle, we’ll explore our work/life hopes, examine our reality, develop objectives, and help and support each other as we gather resources and take a shot at our best life.
Todd Campau, Aftermarket Practice Lead, S&P Global Mobility
Todd Campau is aftermarket practice lead at S&P Global Mobility. He has nearly 20 years of experience in the aftermarket industry. In his role at S&P, Campau is responsible for the development of insights and new product concepts for the aftermarket. Prior to S&P, Campau spent three years as a catalog manager at Gates Corporation and over seven years in data management at MAHLE Aftermarket.
Campau has served for several years with the Auto Care Association as a volunteer leader on various committees, including the Technology Standards Committee and the Market Intelligence Committee. Over the years, Campau has been involved in shaping the Aftermarket Catalog Enhanced Standard (ACES), Product Information Standard (PIES), as well as being a contributor in the production of the Auto Care Factbook. Todd received his AAP (Automotive Aftermarket Professional) designation in 2012, his ACP (Aftermarket Catalog Professional) Designation in 2013, and his MAAP (Master Automotive Aftermarket Professional) in 2014. Campau was recognized with the Auto Care Impact: Four for the Future Award in 2013.
Campau holds a Master of Science degree in Sports Management and a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science, both from Eastern Michigan University.
Topic
Evolving Technology in the Workplace
My career as well as formal training has been focused on technology. As a member of the Technology Solutions committee for many years, I’ve helped to create and shepherd (as well as lament) the data standards in our industry for years. But innovation is not just permeating our data standards – it is permeating everything in our channel from the repair bay to commerce, and as a lifelong student and professional of technology, I’ve developed a keen eye for creative ways to leverage technological innovation to increase efficiency as well as provide new capabilities and I would be happy to share my insights with a YIN Circle.
Greg Costello, SVP Retail Sales, Highline Warren
Greg Costello is the Senior Vice President of Retail Sales at Highline Warren. Highline Warren is a leading manufacturer and distributor in the automotive aftermarket. Greg manages a sales and support team that is responsible for retail customers covering Auto Retail, Mass, Home Center, Hardware, Farm, Clubs, Dollar, Ecommerce and CFD. He has been in the Automotive Aftermarket for over 10 years with a prior sales leadership role at Prestone before joining HW. Throughout his 20+ years career, Greg has held various positions in Sales and Marketing with a focus on retail business. He currently lives in the Chicago area with his wife and three kids. He enjoys coaching and helping out with his kids’ many youth sports teams and activities.
Topic
Change Management
The Automotive Aftermarket is a changing, evolving and consolidating industry. We’ll discuss strategies on how to help drive that change if you are in that role and how to embrace it if the change is happening to you. It’s cliché, but change is inevitable; now how can you use it to help grow your career.
Mike DelaCruz, Founder and CEO, Overdryve Inc
Chances are if you’ve ever been to an industry event, you’ve crossed paths with Mike DelaCruz. He has attended over 100 industry conferences and has personally stepped into over 1300 auto repair shops around the country.
His career path spanning over a decade has also taken him into a variety of companies within the automotive aftermarket, and all with various specialties. From the early days of Demandforce, to Kukui, Elite and most recently Shop Boss Shop Management, Mike has a mass amount of experience in many areas within the automotive aftermarket. Today, Mike is the Founder and CEO of Overdryve, a full service marketing agency helping shop owners grow their business by building a community brand.
Mike is also an active contributor to the automotive aftermarket industry. He sits on the ASCCA Government Affairs Committee, he is a Trustee for the ASC Educational Foundation (ASCEF), and is the ASCCA Chapter 42 Representative in San Jose/Silicon Valley.
Topic
Building your Company Brand
We will discuss how to improve, manage and maintain your brand. This topic covers the importance of a consistent branding message and the ways to communicate brand values to customers. I have represented companies with a core focus on branding, customer retention, and reputation. I have also successfully taught these courses at multiple industry events in front of hundreds attendees!
Bill Hanvey, President and CEO, Auto Care Association
A 35+ year veteran of the aftermarket, Bill Hanvey, MAAP is president and CEO of the Auto Care Association. After beginning his career in sales, marketing and management roles at Tenneco and FleetPride, Hanvey served in executive roles at Dorman, Schaeffler and AASA. Throughout his career, Hanvey has served the industry in many volunteer roles and received accolades such as the Mort Schwartz outstanding industry leadership award and Northwood University Educator of the Year.
Topic
Managing Change
Most people say they embrace change….until it affects them! I would like to spend some time with all of you to learn how you approach change and share with you some of the positive and negative aspects of change management that I have learned along the way. Whether change is gradual such as technological advances in our industry, or immediate such as the Covid 19 pandemic, there are ways that you can set yourself up to not only adapt to change but to be a change agent. I look forward to our first meeting and having an open, transparent discussion on how we all can better handle change in the business environment and our personal lives as well.
Richard J Jolivet, SVP Global Sourcing Asia & Private Brands, Autopart International Inc.
Richard J. Jolivet is the Senior Vice President Global Sourcing/Private Brands of World PAC. His current role is within the Advance Auto Parts Enterprise, under the World PAC banner. He is responsible for managing all aspects of global sourcing for our Private Label brands as well as the Weber Redline division of performance products. Further my wife and I are actively involved in charitable work providing meals to the homebound and needy on weekends when Meals on Wheels does not deliver.
Topic
Managing Up and Managing Change Across Cross-Functional Teams
During my career I have had the opportunity to build teams and re-structure teams through acquisitions and consolidations. Building and maintaining high performing teams through these types of events can be challenging. Change management is always part of that team building process. It is important when managing the change that you get the best of the new without losing the important aspects of the old. As it relates to managing up, that has always been a hallmark of my change management style.
Tunc Kip, Co-Founder and CEO, GAMUT
As a senior automotive industry leader with a legacy of steering enterprises to new heights through a transformative consulting approach, Tunc Kip has surpassed 20 years of experience in the industry. In leadership roles within Tier1 parts
manufacturing operations, Kip orchestrated pivotal transformations elevating companies into globally recognized market positions and pioneered innovative product development.
Prior to Kip's most recent venture, he has led a full
transformation of an enterprise, swiftly emerging as the preferred solution provider for global automotive OEMs. Trusted by premier OEMs and multi-million dollar Tier1s, he created and implemented a successful strategic approach.
Kip is deeply engaged in the latest technological developments in the automotive industry, particularly electric vehicles. He pursued Computer Engineering, followed with an International MBA where I achieved the status of a Six Sigma Master Black Belt professional. Based in Atlanta, GA, he continues to work with global automotive companies, with a strategic focus on the burgeoning EV domain.
Topic
AI and EVs for Success in the Aftermarket
Growing up in the automotive industry, I’ve been fortunate to experience a complete journey of a successful and diverse career path. I’ve led efforts transforming products from ICE to EV applications, I’ve worked in product development, manufacturing and sourcing in several product categories. I have experience navigating the global automotive landscape. The impact of Electric Vehicles (EVs) and the pivotal role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in shaping the future of automotive industry. Such advancements offer unique opportunities for career growth. I plan to have insightful discussions where we share updates on current trends, identify specific strategies, preparing the next generation of automotive professionals, to craft future-ready careers paths.
Dwayne Myers, Co-Owner & CEO, Dynamic Automotive
Dwayne Myers is a co-owner and CEO of Dynamic Automotive, an independent automotive repair business with five locations in Frederick County, Md. He has spent his career, of over 30 years, in the maintenance and repair industry ranging in size from lawnmowers to tanks in the United States Army. As CEO, Myers leads and develops the executive and management teams. He focuses on the continuing development of all team members to build a stronger culture in the company. This development is key to the growth of both Dynamic Automotive and its team members.
Topic
Building your Team
Building a team in todays work environment is not an easy task. It is even harder to get one that works together and has buy-in on the teams and the company's future. There are techniques that I have used that have created a culture of inclusion, being valued, and appreciated, while increasing tenure and attracting new stars. This is not rocket science but a basic way to help people help themselves and others while growing the team.
Steven Ng, Business Development Manager, The Pronto Network
Steven Ng began his automotive career 10+ years on the OEM side of the business with Toyota & Honda, & later transitioned into the aftermarket around 2017. First started w/ TYC in sales, later moved on to Mando Aftermarket as their National Sales Manager, and now proudly working for The Pronto Network - current role as Business Development Manager. My day-to-day includes problem solving & engagement with WD members, suppliers/vendor partners, APSG team, and essentially everything in between.
Ng's goal is to help enhance our entire membership's experience and strengthen vendor relations along the way. He previously served on CAWA’s Manufacturers Advisory Council up until 2022. Born & raised in Los Angeles, CA, recently moved my lovely wife, 2 beautiful babies, and our pup to Dallas, TX. In addition to everyday mommy & daddy duties, Ng and his wife enjoy watching Formula 1, travelling, live music, and trying out new local spots to eat.
Topic
How to Grow Your Career & Maintain Relationships in the Automotive Aftermarket
There’s something for everyone in the automotive aftermarket – you will either find IT, or IT will find you (eventually). Find out what moves you (what are your passions) and your idea of that “dream job”, and before you know it you’ve already begun building your career. You will meet many peers, associates, mentors, etc. along the way – but remember to ALWAYS treat everyone with the highest level of respect & kindness – our industry may be massive, but we’re all inter-connected!
Robert Roos, President, Pronto Network Cooperative
Robert Roos is president, The Pronto Automotive Distribution Network, or simply The Pronto Network. The Pronto Network, a $1.50 billion dollar member-owned program distribution group of over 200 members across North America, was created through the recent merger of The National Pronto Association and The Automotive Distribution Network. Roos has more than 35 years of experience in the automotive industry, most recently serving as president of The National Pronto Association in Grapevine, Texas. His experience includes sales, marketing, technology, operations, and general management of company store and distribution businesses.
Roos is a past board member of Pronto, past AWDA board of governors member and also has participated in many vendor advisory committees. In 2011, he was a recipient of the Pronto Executive of the Year award.
Roos is a graduate of the University of Tennessee.
Topic
Navigating the Aftermarket
I looked at the list of suggestions for the topic for a Mentor Circle and found myself excited for the prospects of participating in this program. How could I possibly limit myself to only one of discussion points? By choosing “Navigating the Aftermarket,” I hope to be able to touch on a broad spectrum of ideas and adventures throughout my career that might assist an up-and-coming industry leader. Growing up in this industry and seeing 30+ years of progress and change, I have a wide variety of experience in many aspects of the business. One of the greatest compliments I ever received was when someone told me I was a generalist. I look forward to sharing my thoughts and insights with my Mentor Circle team.
Michael Rukov, Director of Sales North America, CTR America
Michael Rukov have been involved in the auto care industry for the majority of his professional career. Over the last 15+ years in the industry his accomplishments included founding the Auto Care Association's Young Auto Care Network Group (YANG), being a chairman of YANG, the Auto Care Association's Education Committee, and most recently CAWA. Since the beginning of his career, Rukov has progressively increased his responsibilities and worked in most of the channels including WD’s, manufacturing, manufacturer representatives and data and research. Rukov is extremely passionate about the industry and works hard on showing the future leaders of the industry how important it is to stay involved and connected. Because of his passion, he also is involved in the ACPAC committee where the industry discusses and decides on its next steps in the fight for the Right to Repair.
Topic
Aftermarket Career Journey - Creating Your Own Path
Help discover your own career journey and showcase your growth plans to chart a successful career path. We will reflect and help identify career paths that align with your skills, interests, and values. We will explore the four stages of career planning with self-assessment: where we were, where we are today, where we want to be, and what we need to get to where we want to go.
Ben Smart, VP/GM Region North America, ZF Aftermarket
Ben Smart is VP and GM for ZF Aftermarket Region North America, an 800m USD, 1000-person business covering Passenger car, Commercial vehicle, Industrial, Off Highway and new mobility segments through IAM and OES channels. The ZF AM North America footprint consists of 8 mixed use facilities including manufacturing, remanufacturing and distribution hubs. Prior to his current role Ben ran the ZF passenger car Aftermarket business unit managing category and sales teams for the North America Region. Ben’s foundation is in Strategy, sales and marketing having previously led global marketing and communications for TRW and ZF while based in UK and Germany as well as TRW Asia Pacific sales when based in Singapore. Prior to being in in the Aftermarket industry, Ben worked in advertising agencies in London, UK and a Fintech start-up in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Ben is a big believer in being a change agent and communication being a defining pillar of success.
Topic
Moving Up the Ladder, Career Advancement Preparation
Within the program we will focus on different topics that will help build a plan and vison to future career advancement. We will focus on preparing for success, defining what success looks like, leadership superpowers, managing upwards and downwards as well as recognizing blind spots and how to conquer them. I look forward to sharing some lessons I’ve learnt so far in my career and look forward to discussing real life challenges we have in our current roles and building plans to drive career progression and success.
Tammy Tecklenburg, Founder and CEO, dott.
Tammy Tecklenburg, a 25+ year, award-winning champion of diversity, equity and inclusion within the automotive industry, formed dott. as a strategic consulting and services practice to help automotive and commercial vehicle aftermarket organizations and individuals to elevate people, process and profits through “diversity of thought.” dott. focuses in areas of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI); environmental, social and governance (ESG); career development; corporate board recruiting; speaking engagements; supplier diversity; and a brand influencer/ambassador network.
Tecklenburg’s career spans leadership roles in Fortune 500 companies and start-ups including Honeywell, Armored AutoGroup, Spectrum Brands and Energizer Holdings.
Tecklenburg served the industry as president, Women in Auto Care, and as a member of the Auto Care Association board; the Center for Automotive Diversity, Inclusion and Advancement (CADIA) board; and the Women in Automotive board. She is certified in leading DEI from Northwestern University, Yale School of Management and CADIA.
Topic
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Join me in unpacking diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and embracing “inclusive leadership” practices. When we harness the power of individual differences and perspectives to build “diversity of thought” we become stronger, more effective, and sustainable organizations and leaders.
Skip West, President, MAXSA Innovations
Skip West founded MAXSA Innovations in July of 2003. MAXSA is dedicated to bringing innovative solar and battery powered LED lighting products to market along with automotive parking, organizational, comfort and traction accessories. Products include electronic and non-electronic parking aids, traction mats, a sudden braking rear warning system for the vehicles behind you, car organizational accessories, safety lights and vests, 12 volt heated travel blankets, solar motion lights, solar video cameras, solar flood and flag lights, and battery powered motion lights. MAXSA manufactures in China and Taiwan. The company has grown significantly each year and the product line has expanded from two items initially to nearly 100 currently. Major customers include Amazon, Home Depot, HSN and QVC, Costco, AutoZone, Advance Auto and Lowe’s. West received his Bachelor of Arts from Haverford College in 1978 and his Masters in Business Administration from Stanford University in 1980. Before his college graduation, West spent a year teaching in Africa.
In 2016, he was named "Entrepreneur of the Year" by the Consumer Technology Association.
Topic
Entrepreneurism, running your own business, Sales & Marketing, Strategy
I will coach/mentor those who are running a business or have aspirations to run their own business as to how to make it successful.
