AASP/NJ Awards Russ Robson Scholarships to Two Young Industry Professionals
12.16.24 – The Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of New Jersey (AASP/NJ) sets out to help make a young person’s educational pursuits a little more reachable by providing assistance in the form of the Russ Robson Scholarship, which they award each year at their Annual Meeting. This year’s event, held in October, featured an expansion of these efforts as the association awarded scholarships to not one, but two aspiring automotive professionals employed by AASP/NJ member shops!
Brayan Colomer (K&L Auto Body; Somerville) and Erick Garcia (Krehel Automotive Repair; Clifton) were the lucky recipients of the 2024 Russ Robson Scholarships. Both young men received plaques to commemorate the honor in addition to scholarship funds to use toward their ongoing education and training in the collision repair industry.
The scholarship was created in memory of Robson, a former AASP/NJ president well known in the industry for his dedication and commitment to the importance of training others. The award is intended to encourage young people to stay in the industry and recognize them for being viable candidates on their way to becoming A-technicians.
Colomer has always been interested in the automotive industry. “Cars have been a lifelong passion of mine, evolving from a childhood hobby into a serious commitment to the collision repair industry. From messing with toy cars to restoring vehicles, I’ve always been drawn to the challenge and satisfaction of bringing cars back to life after damage. Collision repair combines my love for mechanics with precision and artistry, making it the perfect field for me.”
Receiving the Russ Robson Scholarship will provide him with “access to advanced training and industry networking, both of which are crucial for building a successful career in auto body repair.”
Alexis Rodriguez, owner of K&L Auto Body, speaks highly of Colomer’s work ethic and his dedication to honing his skills. “Brayan is demonstrating great progress in mastering key auto body repair skills. He consistently shows strong attention to detail, ensuring that every repair meets quality standards. Here at K&L, Brayan is known for being helpful and positive; he is always open to learning new things. His interest in cars definitely motivates him to keep evolving.”
Keith Krehel, owner of Krehel Automotive, nominated his employee for the 2024 Russ Robson Scholarship because he is confident that the young man’s talent and enthusiasm for the automotive industry will lead to a vibrant, successful career as he continues to develop his skills.
“Erick has the spark of motivation,” Krehel commented. “He works on any task assigned to him at a good pace, and he knows when to stop and ask questions. As he continues to learn and grow his capabilities, I see him moving up in the ranks over time to become an excellent mechanic.”
For more information on AASP/NJ, visit aaspnj.org.
Photos: 2024 Russ Robson Scholarship winners Brayan Colomer (photo 1) and Erick Garcia (photo 2) pose with AASP/NJ Board members (from L-R) Tom Elder, Jeff McDowell and Ken Miller (President).
