Aftermarket Leaders Earn AWDA Top Honor
Independent shop owners and drivers who rely on aftermarket parts distributors see the industry leaders behind local parts supply recognized.
Updated on Nov. 3, 2026 in Auto Parts
The Automotive Workshop & Dealer Association (AWDA) presented its 2026 Outstanding Leadership Award in Honor of Jack Creamer to Richard and Lisa Beirne of Auto Parts Headquarters during its General Session on Nov. 1 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The award, formerly known as the "Leader of the Year," is named for former AWDA President Jack Creamer and honors aftermarket professionals who have contributed to the industry in a unique and significant way.
Why it matters
The honor recognizes decades of aftermarket leadership that shaped how independent parts distribution operates, which can affect the parts availability and service options available to car owners in the region. Recognition at the AWDA Annual Business Conference signals continued industry focus on distributor partnerships and advocacy that influence the parts supply behind local repair shops.
Richard began his aftermarket career in 1968 as a delivery driver and later led United Auto Supply as president and CEO. The couple became Lifetime Trustees in 2019 and were the first individuals named Gold Lifetime Trustees in 2025, with cumulative contributions totaling $250,000.
The players
Automotive Workshop & Dealer Association (AWDA)
A trade association serving independent automotive repair shops and dealers, which runs the annual business conference and industry awards.
Auto Parts Headquarters (APH)
An aftermarket parts organization that the Beirnes have helped build through their partnership with United Auto Supply.
Richard Beirne
A longtime aftermarket leader who rose from delivery driver to president and CEO of United Auto Supply and now serves as senior advisor for APH.
The details
Richard guided the partnership between United Auto Supply and Automotive Parts Headquarters (APH) and now serves as a senior advisor for APH. The Beirnes have participated in Auto Care Association Leadership Meetings, Capitol Hill advocacy and Right to Repair initiatives. The award was presented by 2025 recipient Don Bickle, former AWDA Treasurer.
Timeline
1968: Richard begins his aftermarket career as a delivery driver.
2019: Richard and Lisa become Lifetime Trustees.
2025: Richard and Lisa are named the first Gold Lifetime Trustees.
Nov. 1, 2026: AWDA presents the award during its General Session in Las Vegas.
The Home Front
The award continues an AWDA tradition of recognizing aftermarket leaders under a name honoring former AWDA President Jack Creamer. The honor reflects longstanding industry work on distributor partnerships and parts access that sits behind the local repair economy.
If you rely on an independent shop, ask your mechanic which parts distributor they use and whether it carries the parts you need for your vehicle. Keep receipts and part numbers on file so repairs are easier to track and compare over time.
The takeaway
Strong distributor relationships are a quiet factor in how smoothly local repairs get done. Keep a record of your vehicle's part numbers so you can compare options when you next need a replacement.
Further reading
Explore more Auto Parts coverage to see how distributor partnerships shape the parts available to Las Vegas drivers.
Source note: This article includes information reported by AftermarketNews.
