A Bright Future for AASP/MA: Together We Drive Excellence

by Doug Begin, AASP/MA Vice President

AASP/MA has always stood as a pillar of support and advocacy for auto body professionals and consumers across the state.

As we embark into this new year, I am both honored and humbled to take on the role of vice president and continue my duties as the Vendor Affinity Program (VAP) chair. My heartfelt gratitude goes out to each member who placed their trust in me through their votes.

Reflecting on the journey we’ve shared, it’s evident that AASP/MA’s strength lies in our unity and proactive stance. Over the past year, despite the myriad of challenges we faced, our association has shown remarkable resilience through our role in passing key legislation. We’ve navigated through insurance company infractions and ADALB inactions, always emerging stronger and more united.

In 2024, our Vendor Affinity Program (VAP) saw extraordinary growth. By fostering strategic partnerships and cultivating mutually beneficial relationships with our vendors, we’ve not only enhanced our service offerings but also ensured that our members have access to top-tier resources and support. This growth is a testament to the collaborative spirit that defines AASP/MA. As we look forward to 2025, continuing this momentum is paramount. We must remain committed to nurturing these relationships, seeking new opportunities and ensuring our members receive unparalleled value.

However, the success of our association hinges on more than just strategic partnerships. It requires the collective effort of every member. The collision repair industry is in a constant state of flux, driven by technological innovations, changing consumer preferences and evolving regulatory landscapes. To stay ahead, we must be proactive. Each member’s active participation – whether through attending membership meetings, sharing insights or engaging in discussions – is crucial. It’s this proactive mindset that will enable us to anticipate challenges and seize opportunities.

Moreover, our association’s growth and sustainability depend heavily on our ability to recruit new members and sponsors. The benefits of AASP/MA membership are manifold, ranging from educational resources and networking opportunities to advocacy and industry representation. Yet, these benefits can only be amplified with a growing and diverse membership base. I urge every member to be steadfast in their recruitment efforts. By sharing the value of AASP/MA with peers and potential sponsors, we can expand our reach, enrich our community and amplify our voice within the industry.

The future of AASP/MA is indeed bright. As we navigate 2025, several key initiatives are set to shape our trajectory. First, we will invest in the newly-formed AASP auto damage appraisers licensing training course to equip our future members and member shops alike with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in a rapidly evolving industry. From hands-on classes to future digital training modules, our offerings will be diverse and tailored to meet the unique needs of our members.

Secondly, we will amplify our advocacy efforts. The collision repair and auto body industry is subject to numerous regulations, and it’s imperative our members’ voices are heard. Through strategic lobbying and active engagement with policymakers, we will strive to influence decisions that impact our industry, ensuring a favorable operating environment for our members.

Finally, we will focus on fostering a sense of community. By organizing events, we will create spaces for members to connect, share experiences and build lasting relationships. These connections are the lifeblood of our association, driving collaboration and innovation.

In conclusion, the state of AASP/MA is strong, and our outlook for 2025 is overwhelmingly positive. Together, as a united and proactive community, we will continue to drive excellence, navigate challenges and seize opportunities. I extend my deepest appreciation to every member for their unwavering support and dedication. Let us embrace the future with optimism, knowing that together, there is nothing we cannot achieve.

Here’s to thriving in 2025! 

Want more? Check out the March 2025 issue of New England Automotive Report!