New Jersey technician wins 2025 U.S. technician of the year competition
Kevin Kiggins of Pullen's Garage in Hamilton Township, New Jersey, has been named the 2025 U.S. Technician of the Year Champion by Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper, concluding a four-day competition in Detroit, Michigan, held July 7-10, 2025.
Kiggins, a customer and certified service center member of Eastern Warehouse Distributors, competed against elite technicians from across the United States in a rigorous competition designed to test both knowledge and hands-on expertise.
"This recognition is beyond anything I could have imagined," said Kiggins. "To compete with such talented professionals and come out on top—it's truly humbling. I'm incredibly thankful to my distributor, my team, and the Alliance for making this experience unforgettable."
The competition featured finalists from top-performing Auto Value or Bumper to Bumper Certified Service Centers who faced a customized ASE exam and timed, hands-on challenges facilitated by professional trainers from Garage Gurus.
Combined scores from the various tests determined the overall champion.
"We're excited to congratulate Kevin Kiggins on being named the 2025 Technician of the Year," said Nick Przybylowski, Director of Sales for Eastern Warehouse Distributors. "This event showcases the technical skills and acumen required to be a high-performance automotive professional. Kevin has always been a value to our network, and this recognition is fantastic."
The event also crowned international champions. Mitch Rauhala of RNG Auto Care & Repair Inc. in Mountain View County, Alberta, won the Canadian competition, while Juan Luis Montes de Oca Urbina of Servicio Montes de Oca in Michoacán de Ocampo, Mexico, was named the Latin American Champion.
"ASE is proud to support and participate in the Auto Value & Bumper to Bumper Technician of the Year program," said Dave Johnson, President & CEO of ASE. "This is a special event that showcases the skills and professional résumés of talented technicians—with a very critical focus on training and technical acumen."
Added Jim Holik, Director of Marketing at the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance, Inc.: "This event brings together the best of the best technicians along with a select group of aftermarket professionals in what we believe is the strongest technician recognition program in our industry."
With over 3,900 Certified Service Centers in the Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper network, earning a place in the competition represents a significant achievement. Garage Gurus and DRiV provided expert instruction, facilities, and sponsorship support.
"These technicians are the backbone of the aftermarket, and investing in their growth and recognition is essential," said Charles Sargant, Sales Director of Program Groups and Key Accounts at DRiV. "We're proud to partner with the Alliance to help elevate the next generation of automotive leaders."
The 2025 finalists were:
- Rafael Borja, Robertson Automotive, Chandler, Texas
- Jared Boxshall, Lube King Service Centre, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Edward Castro, Ace Auto Repair and Tire, Pinole, California
- Phil Clark, Barnes Auto Service, Louisville, Kentucky
- Gerald Dahlin, D.A.D'S Auto Repair, Baresford, South Dakota
- Michael Dyer, Westgate High-Tech Autocare, Omaha, Nebraska
- Jamie Fowler II, Marty's Complete Automotive, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Kevin Kiggins, Pullen's Garage, Hamilton Township, New Jersey
- Casey O'Sullivan, Interstate Auto Care, Madison Heights, Michigan
- Christopher Potucek, CC Auto Parts and Service, Springfield, Kentucky
- Brad Probus, Troys Auto Service, Smithland, Kentucky
- Mitch Rauhala, RNG Auto Care & Repair Inc., Mountain View County, Alberta, Canada
- Luis Reina, Tech & Tires Corp, Miami, Florida
- Matthew Reitmeier, Travel Care Regina Ltd., Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
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