POWAY, Calif. (Sept. 13, 2016) — Mitchell Repair Information Co. L.L.C. has named Michael Thomason, an automotive service technician instructor with Great Plains Technology Center in Lawton, Okla., its 2016 Mitchell 1 Educator of the Year.
Mitchell recognized Mr. Thomason during the recent North American Council of Automotive Teachers (NACAT) conference in Pasadena, Texas.
Each year the firm recognizes one of the nation's top teachers for excellence in automotive repair instruction. In order to qualify for the award, a master automotive technician must excel on all ASE automotive tests, including A1 through A8 — covering engine repair, automatic transmission/transaxle, manual drive train and axles, suspension and steering, brakes, electrical/electronic systems, heating and air conditioning and engine performance — and L1, covering advanced engine performance.
In receiving the 2016 award, Mr. Thomason has earned a one-year complimentary subscription to Mitchell 1's ProDemand diagnostic, estimating and repair information software. He also received a check for $500 and a certificate recognizing the achievement.
“Mitchell 1 is proud to join with NACAT to honor those who have demonstrated a commitment to educational excellence in the automotive repair industry,” said Nick DiVerde, senior marketing director, Mitchell 1. “Michael Thomason has an outstanding reputation as an instructor, and we feel he is an excellent choice to receive this award.”
Mr. Thomason discovered a love for automotive technology early in life and passed his first ASE test while still in high school, Mitchell 1 said. Prior to teaching, he worked first as a service manager at Herb Easley Chevrolet in Wichita Falls, Texas.