Automotive recyclers association

About ARA - Hill Days

The Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA) is the leading trade association representing the professional automotive recycling industry since 1943. Our members employ over 140,000 people at more than 9,000 locations nationwide, generating over $32 billion in annual sales. We advance the industry and promote its beneficial effects on society through education, advocacy, and best-practice programs.

Purpose and Vision for the Future

ARA exists to advance the automotive recycling industry and highlight its positive impact on society. Our work from environmental advocacy to industry-leading training and certification supports a safe, efficient, and sustainable future.

We envision a circular economy where end-of-life vehicles are responsibly dismantled and reused, conserving resources and minimizing waste. Through innovation and collaboration, we’re driving a cleaner, safer, and more affordable automotive world for everyone.

Our Core Values

Every ARA member commits to upholding the ARA Code of Ethics, which reflects the principles that guide our industry. Members are expected to promote conservation and the complete utilization of natural and manufactured resources, while accurately representing the quality and condition of every recycled part.

We value strong community relationships, environmental stewardship, and diversity, and we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of business ethics and legal compliance. Our members also work to educate the public on the value and safety of recycled OEM parts, and they strive to treat every customer fairly—with clear warranties and professional service.

Strategic Pillars

ARA Partnerships

Partnerships

We strive to build strong connections with our members, vendors, and the public. These relationships strengthen our voice and create more opportunities for the industry.

ARA Growth

Growth

Through open communication, a shared annual event, and ongoing collaboration, we create meaningful opportunities to grow the industry together and amplify our collective impact.

ARA Legislation

Advocacy

We represent your voice where it matters most, shaping policy, influencing legislation, and protecting your right to operate and grow.

ARA Education

Education & Certification

ARA gives you the tools to grow, with industry training, certification programs, and peer mentoring to support your success.

Our Leadership

Executive Committee (2024–2025)

  • President: Eric Wilbert, Wilbert’s U-Pull-It (Williamson, NY)

  • First Vice President: Shannon Nordstrom, Nordstrom’s Automotive Inc. (Garretson, SD)

  • 2nd Vice President/Treasurer: Sean Krause, Speedway Auto Parts, Ltd (Joliet, IL)

  • Secretary: Tom Andrade, Everett’s Auto Parts (Brockton, MA)

  • Immediate Past President: Nick Daurio, Daurio Auto Truck (Pueblo, CO)

 

  • Board or Directors: Jonathan Morrow, Scott Robertson Jr, David Gold, Russ Spalding,
    James Counselman, Shan Lathem, Amber Kendrick, Emily Yancey, Darren Combellack,
    Dustin Vitare, Laurie Beacham

ARA Staff

  • Executive Director: Vince Edivan

  • Senior Director, Operations: Jessica Andrews

  • VP, Strategy & Government Affairs: Emil Nusbaum

  • Senior Director, Member Services: Kelly Badillo

  • Certification Consultant: Sue Schauls

  • Communications (Editor/Design/Sales): Caryn Smith & Jay Mason

Our Impact

By recycling end-of-life vehicles (ELVs), our industry:

  • Saves tens of millions of gallons of fuel and lubricant annually

  • Reclaims steel, aluminum, plastics, copper & brass for new manufacturing

  • Prevents hazardous fluids from entering the environment by using secure
    containment and recovery processes

  • Delivers genuine OEM parts at 20–80% less than new parts, keeping
    repair costs down for consumers

A study at Worcester Polytechnic Institute found that automotive recycling in Massachusetts
drives a negative carbon footprint, highlighting our role in a true circular economy.

Member Benefits

ARA members enjoy exclusive access to:

  • ARA University: 24/7 online training on safety, compliance, EV/Hybrid technology

  • Savings4Members Marketplace: Discounts on energy, safety products, office supplies, fleet fuel,
    insurance, payroll services, and more

  • Annual Convention & Expo: Premier networking and education at member-discounted rates

  • Certified Automotive Recycler (CAR) Program: Roadmap to compliance and Gold Seal certification

  • Scholarship Foundation: $40K+ awarded annually to students in ARA member families

  • Shift Vehicle Retirement Initiative: Environmentally focused vehicle retirement and revenue opportunities

  • Peer-to-Peer Mentoring & Networking: Best-practice sharing and business growth support

Join Us

Become part of over 1,250 direct members and an extended network of 4,000+ companies worldwide.
Contact us:
Automotive Recyclers Association
9113 Church Street, Manassas, VA 20110
(571) 208-0428

Advancing sustainability, innovation, and professionalism in automotive recycling.