Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper 2026 Technician of the Year
Key Highlights
- Matt Wagg, owner and lead technician at Accelerated Diagnostic & Automotive, was named the 2026 Technician of the Year during the Detroit competition.
- The contest featured a customized ASE exam and hands-on challenges to test diagnostic skills, technical knowledge, and real-world repair abilities.
- Thirteen top technicians from the U.S. and Canada competed, representing over 4,000 Certified Service Centers in the Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper network.
- The event was sponsored by DRiV and Garage Gurus, with industry leaders praising the finalists' talent, dedication, and professionalism.
- Finalists enjoyed visits to iconic automotive and cultural attractions in Metro Detroit, celebrating automotive excellence and industry camaraderie.
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 were 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.