ACC Launches 2021 Virtual Education Series

The Automotive Communications Council (ACC) will launch its first virtual FAST TRACK education series, the organization announced, beginning with an engaging panel of independent repair shop owners scheduled for March 25 at 2 p.m. EST.

“This 90-minute presentation promises to bring a real-world perspective among three independent repair shop owners who produced positive outcomes during a challenging time for our industry,” explains Jim Merle, president of ACC. “Hearing it live from our panel members will prove informative and enjoyable for all ACC members.”

This first shop owner panel includes three female shop owners:

• Judy Zimmerman Walter, owner and CFO of Zimmerman’s Automotive, Mechanicsburg, PA, grew up in her father’s garage, and is the Auto Care Association’s 2016 Female Shop Owner of the Year.
• Jamie Carlson, Ervines Auto Repair, Grand Rapids, MI, is the Auto Care Association’s 2019 Female Shop Owner of the Year.
• Kim Hagler Auernheimer, CS Automotive, Brentwood, TN, is an accredited automotive trainer and was recently named the Auto Care Association’s 2020 Female Shop Owner of the Year.

Moderated by Jennifer Holland, vice president of ACC and AVP of ASE, this panel discussion will include a Q&A segment during the last 30 minutes.

“I personally know all three women participating and their skillset and dedication to their business was the difference to having success during a year with so many challenges,” Holland said. “We’re looking forward to learning more of their accomplishments and how communications played a role in their success.”

Merle says this is only the start of ACC’s FAST TRACK events, with three more planned in 2021. “I am appreciative of the work by our Board to develop this series of FAST TRACK events dedicated to advancing the market and business intelligence of our members,” he said.

The second of four ACC FAST TRACK education events is scheduled for this May.

For more information about the FAST TRACK education series or to become a member of the Automotive Communication Council, register here.