You earn customers' trust every day.

Excellence deserves the Highest Recognition.

Technician

Selection Criteria


A panel of former NAPA/ASE Technicians of the Year, automotive press editors and an ASE representative will select this year's winner. Entrants will be judged on:

  • Must be an Auto Care Technician
  • Completed Nomination form
  • Short Biography
  • Certifications/Credentials
  • Must be a Master ASE Technician
  • Training/education and technical skills
  • Community/Industry involvement
  • Recommendation Letters

Thousands of Dollars in Prizes


  • Commemorative NAPA/ASE Technician of the Year Ring
  • NAPA/ASE Technician of the Year Plaque
  • $5,000 in cash
  • Expenses-paid trip for the winner and a guest to a NASCAR or NHRA race, including VIP treatment, hotel accommodations, meals, and two race tickets
  • Expenses-paid trip to the ASE Technician Awards Banquet
  • Sits on the NAPA/ASE Technician of the Year Judging Panel during Term

Enter by July 24, 2026


Anyone is welcome to nominate a Technician they feel is deserving. To enter, click Nominate Now and complete all nomination information.

You work hard...


Being the Technician of the Year is not just about the ASE Certifications that an individual possesses, it's about commitment and leadership to our industry and to NAPA and continued training beyond ASE. It's about hard work and going the extra mile.

Previous Years' Winners


Jonathan Donnell

Mevert Automotive

Steeleville, IL

2026 NAPA/ASE Technician of the Year

Jonathan Donnell has such a deep passion for cars and the auto repair industry as a whole. It's more than just a job to him—it's a calling. He's always taking the time to mentor the younger technicians in the shop, not only helping them learn how to properly diagnose and repair vehicles, but also guiding them on how to handle setbacks and roadblocks with patience and professionalism.

What sets Jonathan apart is that he doesn't stop at just teaching technical skills. He constantly emphasizes the importance of being a true professional—treating customers with respect, communicating honestly, and holding themselves to a higher standard. One of his biggest motivations is changing the way people view the auto repair industry.

"We aren't the greasy old mechanics trying to take advantage of people like everyone thinks. That's why, as technicians, we need to be the change—so we can change the stereotype."

He truly believes that by setting the right example, he and others in the industry can earn the trust and respect the profession deserves.

Jonathan is incredibly passionate about both the auto repair industry and giving back to the community. He takes pride in mentoring apprentice technicians, helping them become not just skilled techs, but true professionals. He's also the go-to resource for other shops when they're stuck on a tough diagnostic—always ready to help, because he believes in the idea of "one big industry family" where everyone supports each other.

Outside the shop, Jonathan coaches youth soccer and plays a central role in his shop's annual Wishes on Wheels car giveaway, where they donate a vehicle to a local family in need—giving away two cars in the most recent year. Whether it's in the shop or in the community, he's always looking for ways to make a positive impact.

Are you ready?

Nominate now!