Washington Automotive Professional Selected as 2007 NAPA/ASE Parts Specialist of the Year

ATLANTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--NAPA AUTO PARTS and the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) have named Ernesto Cerrillo the 2007 NAPA/ASE Parts Specialist of the Year. Cerrillo, who is employed by Allen’s Auto Parts, Inc. in Tonasket, Washington, is the eighth individual to receive this special parts professional honor within the NAPA system.

“Ernesto has worked for everything he has achieved and his accomplishments are many.”

Cerrillo, an ASE Automotive Parts Specialist and Engine Mechanic, has more than 23 years experience in the automotive industry. His credentials and certifications from NAPA Manufacturers’ Schools and Clinics include brakes and chassis, fuel injection, heating and cooling, paint, body and equipment.

In nominating Cerrillo, Art Fischer, president and general manager, NAPA Seattle Distribution Center, said, “Ernesto has worked for everything he has achieved and his accomplishments are many.” After graduating high school, Ernesto continued his education by attending the Universal Technical Institute in Phoenix, where he graduated with an Occupational Associate Degree in Automotive-Diesel Technology. He then moved back to Washington where he began his career as a certified mechanic. In 1996, Cerrillo relocated to Tonasket to further his career with Allen’s Auto Parts.

Cerrillo’s aftermarket manufacturers’ training includes certifications in electrical and automotive wiring in addition to his training in the FastTrack for NAPA Professionals as a counter salesperson.

“His knowledge brings people into my store. His personality captivates them, and his compassion and dedication keeps them coming back,” said Georgine Epley, owner of Allen’s Auto Parts. “He is always willing to go the extra step to help a customer with a problem by looking at their car, giving instructions, diagnosing or even fixing the car.”

Aside from Cerrillo’s dedication to the automotive industry, he is also very dedicated to his community. Cerrillo, who is bi-lingual, is Vice-President of Habitat for Humanity, a Skate park project chairman, a board member of the Family Health Center, and a translator for the City of Tonasket, the Tonasket Police Department, the North Valley Hospital and the Tonasket School District where he also serves on the Hispanic PTA.

“As a result of Ernesto’s hard work and dedication to the automotive industry and his community, it is my honor to present the NAPA/ ASE Parts Specialist of the Year Award to him,” said Bob Susor, NAPA president. “The feedback we received from his co-workers, manager and customers reassured us that we had selected the most deserving recipient for this prestigious industry award.”

About NAPA AUTO PARTS

NAPA AUTO PARTS distributes parts, accessories, tools and equipment to 6,000 NAPA AUTO PARTS stores and more than 12,000 NAPA AutoCare Centers nationwide. For more information about NAPA and vehicle care, visit www.NAPAAutoCare.com.