Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper Name 2026 Technician of the Year Champion

13 July 2026

Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper have named Matt Wagg of Bennington, Nebraska, as the 2026 Technician of the Year Champion. Wagg is the owner and lead technician at Accelerated Diagnostic & Automotive, an Auto Value Certified Service Center and customer of The Merrill Company (Arnold Motor Supply). The winner was announced during the Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper Technician of the Year competition held in Detroit, Michigan, in July.

"I am incredibly honored to receive this recognition," said Wagg. "Competing alongside some of the best technicians in North America was an amazing experience. I am especially grateful to The Merrill Company (Arnold Motor Supply) for selecting me to represent our market in this year's competition. I would also like to thank my team, my customers, and everyone who encouraged me to participate."

Thirteen of the top technicians from across the United States and Canada traveled to Detroit to compete in the 2026 Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper Technician of the Year finalist program. Sponsored by DRiV and Garage Gurus, the annual competition featured a customized Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) examination along with a series of hands-on technical challenges designed to test diagnostic ability, technical knowledge, and real-world repair skills.

"With more than 4,000 Certified Service Centers across the Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper network, earning a place among our Technician of the Year finalists is a remarkable accomplishment," said John C. Washbish, President and CEO of the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance, Inc. "This program is designed to recognize the highly skilled professionals who represent the very best of our industry. The talent, dedication, and professionalism displayed by this year's finalists was truly exceptional, and we congratulate all of them on their achievements. We would also like to thank DRiV and Garage Gurus for their continued support of this outstanding program."

In addition to the competition, finalists enjoyed several memorable experiences throughout Metro Detroit, including visits to some of the region’s most iconic automotive and cultural attractions. The event provided finalists and guests with opportunities to network with fellow technicians, industry leaders, sponsors, and Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper representatives while celebrating the profession and recognizing the critical role technicians play in keeping motorists safely on the road.

"Partnering with Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper for the Technician of the Year program continues to be one of the highlights of our year," said Bob Paschall, VP of Sales US- Traditional at DRiV. "The opportunity to engage directly with some of the industry's most talented technicians reinforces the importance of investing in education, training, and professional development. Just as importantly, this program strengthens our partnership with Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper and their warehouse distributor members, creating value throughout the distribution channel while building brand recognition, customer loyalty, and lasting relationships. We are proud to support a program that recognizes excellence within the automotive aftermarket industry and helps advance the success of everyone involved."

DRiV and Garage Gurus have proudly served as host sponsors of the Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper Technician of the Year program since 2018, helping showcase the technical expertise and professionalism that drive the industry forward.

The 2026 Technician of the Year Finalists include:

Matt Wagg | Accelerated Diagnostic & Automotive | Merrill Company LLP (The)
Jake McKie | Shane’s Northern Tire and Auto | Piston Ring Service Supply
Matthew Wilson | Angelina Tire & Auto | ABC Auto Parts, Ltd.
Spencer Derzaph | Auto Electric Service-Service Department | Auto Electric Service, Ltd.
Timothy Dunaway| Daugherty’s Body Shop and Service Center | Moog Louisville Warehouse
Bryan McKnight | Kerners Auto Service | Auto-Wares Group of Companies
Joe Sawyer | Tom’s Auto Center | Auto-Wares Group of Companies
Judson Stagnaro | Aurora Automotive | Automotive Parts Headquarters Inc.
Seumas Leghorn | Adair Auto Repair | Central Auto Parts Distributors
David Ward | Avenue Motors | Eastern Auto Parts Warehouse
Christopher Potucek | CC Auto Parts & Service | Hahn Automotive Warehouse
Jamie Fowler | Marty’s Complete Automotive | National Parts Warehouse
Truen Taylor | The KAR Shop | Parts Warehouse Inc.