ETI Executive Director Brian Plott retires

Plott leaves after six years in the organization and decades in the industry.

Related To:

July 18, 2025

2 min read

687a9dbf70b1bcf8ba73f6b2 Product Images 20250718t151649

The Equipment & Tool Institute (ETI) has announced the retirement of Brian Plott, executive director, after six years of service to the organization and more than four decades of leadershi in the automotive aftermarket.

In his absence, the ETI Board has appointed Winston Lee, current ETI Europe managing director, to serve as Interim Executive Director. Winston has 20 years of technical, operational, and advocacy experience within ETI member companies and has been instrumental in advancing key initiaitives, according to ETI.

The board will continue to evaluate the evolving needs of the Institute before making any decision on a permanent appointment and any overall strategy adjustments. President/Board Chair Chris Bahlman will remain in his volunteer role through April 2026, working with Winston and the staff to execute ETI's strategic plan and expand program value.

Plott is set to remain an active advisor of ETI and plans to stay involved in industry event post-retirement.

What people are saying

"I’m honored to serve our members during this transition,” said Lee. “With the
guidance of the board and the support of our dedicated staff and volunteers, ETI will
continue to deliver the tools, data access, and collaborative forums that keep independent
repairers at the forefront of advanced vehicle service.”

“In an environment with increasing vehicle repair access challenges, ETI is poised for
growth,” said Bahlman. “With Winston’s operational leadership and the board’s strategic
oversight, we committed to serving the independent repair community with the resources
needs to thrive."