Recognizing excellence: AIA Canada announces 2025 industry award recipients
Ottawa, March 4, 2025—The Automotive Industries Association of Canada (AIA Canada) is thrilled to announce the recipients of the 2025 Distinguished Service Award, the Young Professionals in the Auto care sector (YPA) Young Leader of the Year Award, and the AIA High Fives for Kids Foundation Distinguished Recognition Award.
AIA Canada Distinguished Service Award
The AIA Canada Distinguished Service Award is the highest award presented by the Association to an individual member. It recognizes outstanding service and leadership that contributes to the growth and development of Canada’s automotive auto care industry.
AIA Canada is pleased to award the 2025 Distinguished Service Award to Bob Jaworski.
Bob Jaworski
President and CEO – Auto Electric Ltd.
Bob has been a dedicated leader in the auto care industry for over 40 years. After earning a Business Administration degree in 1983, he joined Dayco Canada as a territory sales representative before moving to SaskTel as a marketing manager. In 1986, he returned to the industry with Auto Electric Service Ltd. as Regina Sales Manager, quickly rising to Corporate Sales Manager and later General Manager, overseeing operations.
In 2007, when major shareholders sold their shares to company leaders, Bob was appointed President, General Manager, and Chairman of the Board. He now serves as President and CEO of Auto Electric Service Ltd. and continues as Chairman, focusing on growth and success.
Beyond his leadership, Bob has contributed to the industry through roles on AIA Canada’s Board of Directors and currently serves on the National Account Committee for the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance.
A passionate Saskatchewan Roughriders fan, former hockey coach, and now a flag football coach for his granddaughters, Bob has been married to Lynn for 41 years. They have two children, Jen, manager of corporate development and marketing at Auto Electric Ltd., and Rankin, a vice president at Toronto Dominion Asset Management.
Young leader of the Year Award
Each year, the Young Professionals in the Auto Care Sector (YPA) Community recognizes an exceptional young professional who demonstrates leadership, innovation, and dedication to Canada’s auto care industry. The Young Leader of the Year Award celebrates individuals who not only excel in their careers but also contribute to the growth and development of the industry and their communities.
As part of its commitment to fostering the next generation of industry leaders, the YPA Community supports professionals under 45 years of age who are members in good standing of AIA Canada. Through networking opportunities, exclusive events, professional development, and mentorship, the YPA Community empowers young professionals to advance in the auto care sector. This award highlights individuals who embody these values.
It is with great pleasure that we present the 2025 Young Leader of the Year Award to Kari Hann.
Kari Hann
Marketing and digital communications manager – Specialty Sales & Marketing
Kari Hann has been the marketing and digital communications manager at Specialty Sales & Marketing Inc. (SS&M) since 2020, marking 16 years with the company in 2024. A dedicated member of AIA Canada’s Young Professionals in the Auto care sector (YPA) Committee since joining SS&M, Kari has actively contributed to its growth.In 2024, she was elected Chair, reflecting her leadership and industry expertise.
Beyond her professional success, Kari is deeply committed to community service. She founded the Specialty Sales & Marketing Inc. Community Support Fund, providing aid to individuals and families in need. She is also a member of 100 Women Who Care Halton Hills and volunteers with the Halton Down Syndrome Association.
Additionally, she supports Shads R&R, an industry event that has raised over $5.5 million for Muscular Dystrophy Canada. Her dedication to both the automotive sector and charitable causes highlights her passion for leadership, mentorship, and making a positive impact.
High Fives for Kids Foundation Distinguished Recognition Award
The AIA High Fives for Kids (H5s4Ks) Foundation, established in 2005 by AIA Canada, is dedicated to enriching the lives of Canadian children and youth. Through grants and donations, the Foundation supports local charities, ensuring young people have access to the tools, opportunities, and support they need to thrive. Additionally, the Foundation fosters future talent in the auto care sector by providing annual scholarships to students pursuing education in the industry.
As part of this mission, the H5s4Ks Distinguished Recognition Award is presented annually to AIA Canada member companies, past members, and AIA Canada Divisions that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to improving the quality of life for children and youth in their communities. This award recognizes outstanding efforts in supporting the Foundation’s mission and making a meaningful impact on the lives of young Canadians.
It is with great pleasure that we present the 2025 AIA H5s4Ks Distinguished Recognition Award to Andy Murphy.
Andy Murphy
Business development – Modern Sales Co-op
For over 50 years, Andy Murphy has been a respected leader in the Canadian auto care sector. His career began in 1971 at Bill Smith Auto Parts, where he gained hands-on experience in counter sales, store management, and outside sales. In 1987, he joined Acklands, later CARQUEST Canada, holding key leadership roles, including Ontario Regional Manager.
In 1999, he helped launch NAPA’s CMAX Paint & Body Shop Supply network in Ontario before becoming Ontario Regional Sales Manager for Paint, Body, and Equipment.
In 2010, Andy joined Bestbuy Distributors Ltd., rising to VP of sales and marketing before retiring in 2024. Now, in 2025, he continues his industry contributions with Modern Sales Co-op.
For 15 years, Andy has been a dedicated supporter of the AIA High Fives for Kids Foundation, playing a key role in organizing and overseeing golf tournaments, hosting dinners, and leading fundraising initiatives. His efforts have been instrumental in advancing the Foundation’s mission to enhance the quality of life for children and youth in local communities.
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About the Automotive Industries Association of Canada
We represent, support and lead innovation in Canada’s $43.9 billion auto care sector. With thousands of members from coast to coast, our vision, research, training programs and advocacy supports Canada’s collision and mechanical sectors. Our best practices for the auto care industry help our members keep Canada’s fleet of almost 26.6 million vehicles on the road.
Whether you have been in a collision or require maintenance, our members help vehicles last longer, pollute less and keep drivers safer by offering Canadians any product or service a vehicle may need after it rolls off the dealership’s lot.
For more information, please contact:
AIA Canada Communications
1-800-808-2920, ext. 2285