Custom Automotive Network (CAN) has named Rick Kovalick and Trent Lowe as co-recipients of the 2018 Pioneer Award.
The award is presented in recognition of outstanding contributions to the custom automotive distribution system and in appreciation of conscientious dedication to the industry. Candidates for the award are nominated by CAN membership and voted on by a committee composed of former Pioneer Award winners. The awards will be formally presented at CAN’s Oct. 31 General Membership Meeting in Las Vegas.
Kovalick, vice president of purchasing for National Performance Warehouse, has served on various panels, committees, and the board of directors for CAN and SEMA. His career began in retail and installer sales in 1971 before rising in the ranks for Top Fuel Champion, Keystone Automotive Warehouse, and Keystone Automotive Operations.
Lowe is the former president of Time Automotive Distributors, located in Salt Lake City and Boise, Idaho. The company was acquired by National Performance Warehouse in 2015. Lowe retired from the company in 2016. He has long been a dedicated supporter of CAN and spent 17 years serving as a director and as treasurer on the association board of directors.
“This is a special year as Custom Automotive Network is recognizing the contributions of two very deserving Pioneer Award winners,” said Tracie Nuñez, president of CAN. “Trent Lowe is being honored for his leadership of a highly regarded distribution company and for his steadfast contribution on the board of directors that shaped and guided the association’s membership through critical times. Rick Kovalick’s leadership, performance and service during his career created a lasting impact in current purchasing and marketing practices with several top distributors.
“It is a privilege to honor both men who have helped to strengthen and expand the automotive distribution system throughout their careers.”
CAN was founded in 1970 as the Performance Warehouse Association (PWA). The association’s mission is to assist the custom automotive industry in efforts to expand, maintain and promote the profitable distribution of custom automotive products through the manufacturer, distributor, retailer, and consumer channel. CAN consists of about 500 member companies.
For additional information, visit customautomotivenetwork.com or call 760-346-5647.