Bill Nalu, president of Interstate Auto Care in Madison Heights, Michigan, was named AAPEX's 2026 Shop Owner of the Year. Recognized for his contributions to the automotive service industry, Nalu reflected on the people, experiences, and lessons that shaped his 35-year career.

What does this recognition mean to you?

"One of the things that goes through a former technician's mind, the reptilian brain thinks. You know, I know I'm not as the biggest, baddest, most successful shop owner out there. There's only 10,000 of them that are above me in this order. And then you realize that you've spent 35 years of your life invested in this livelihood. It's an unbelievable privilege to have been entrusted by this industry with all of the time, talent, and treasure."

What has been the biggest factor in building Interstate Auto Care into what it is today?

"I hired on people that challenged me, and that was uncomfortable. It was difficult. It is difficult. It can be heartbreaking. I don't know how else you can do that. I don't know how else you can build a team without them pushing you and without you raising each other."

What advice would you give other shop owners?

"Be the cheapest option for that customer, because if you don't believe it, if your people don't believe that you're the least expensive option for the customer, why should the customer believe that?"

Nalu emphasized that independent shops must communicate the value behind their work and help customers understand why quality service is worth the investment.