The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF) are proud to announce a new partnership designed to expand support for ASE Certified professionals and their families facing unexpected hardships.

The initiative, launched under the theme “Support Beyond Certification,” reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the entire technician community—not only through professional excellence but also through personal resilience and security.

ASE has long set the benchmark for professionalism in the automotive service industry. Since 1972, more than a quarter of a million professionals have earned ASE Certification, the industry’s standard credential across automotive service, parts, collision, truck, school bus and transit bus segments. Car owners benefit from trusted technicians; shops gain visibility through ASE’s Blue Seal of Excellence and certified professionals earn the respect they deserve. AACF complements this mission by serving as the industry’s safety net since 1959, providing emergency financial assistance to individuals and families in the automotive aftermarket affected by illness, injury, natural disasters or other life-changing events.

“ASE is dedicated to ensuring that service professionals are recognized for their skills and commitment to excellence,” said Jennifer Holland, assistant vice president of marketing, ASE. “Through this partnership with AACF, we’re extending that support beyond the test, giving technicians and their families a trusted resource when life takes an unexpected turn.”

“This partnership bridges the gap between professional recognition and personal support,” said John Kairys, executive director, AACF. “Together with ASE, we are reinforcing to every technician that they are not only valued for their skills but cared for as individuals. This is what it means to truly support our aftermarket family.”

The collaboration will include coordinated communications to ASE Certified professionals, raising awareness of AACF’s services and resources. Joint initiatives will feature co-branded campaigns, social media outreach and integration of AACF information into ASE certification and recertification touchpoints. ASE will also join AACF in supporting key events during AAPEX/SEMA week, further demonstrating the industry’s united commitment to its workforce.

By combining ASE’s professional standards with AACF’s compassionate mission, the partnership ensures technicians can thrive both in their careers and in their personal lives. The result is a stronger, more resilient industry where the people behind the service bays and parts counters know they are supported at every level.

For more information, or to get involved, visit https://www.aftermarketcharity.org/asecares

For more information contact Misty Walker, Misty@AftermarketCharity.org.