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VISION Hi-Tech Training & Expo Opens Applications for
2026 Awards and Scholarships
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Sheri Hamilton, VISION Conference Manager
sheri@visionkc.com
Gladstone, Mo., September 3, 2025 — The VISION Hi-Tech Training & Expo proudly announces the opening of applications for its 2026 scholarships and awards, honoring excellence and achievement throughout the automotive service industry. These programs provide a unique opportunity for automotive professionals, shop owners, educators, service advisors, and technicians to be recognized for their leadership, innovation, and contributions to the field.
Applications are now open, with a deadline of January 9, 2026, for scholarships and for awards.
“VISION has always been about more than training—it’s about community,” said Sheri Hamilton, VISION Conference Manager. “These awards and scholarships allow us to recognize the people who are moving our industry forward, from technicians and service advisors to shop owners and educators. It’s a chance to shine a spotlight on their commitment, inspire others, and celebrate what makes this industry great.”
New for 2026: Technician of the Year and Service Advisor of the Year
Two exciting new awards join the lineup this year:
- Technician of the Year: Honoring an outstanding automotive service technician with at least two years of experience who demonstrates strong technical skills, teamwork, and professionalism. This award celebrates the technicians who solve tough problems, support their shops, and set the bar for excellence in the trade.
- Service Advisor of the Year: Recognizing a dedicated service advisor with at least one year of experience who excels at communication, customer service, and workflow management. This award highlights the key role service advisors play in building trust with customers and ensuring smooth shop operations.
2026 VISION Awards Categories
- Educator of the Year
- Facility of the Year
- Best Website
- Humanitarian of the Year
- Radical Generosity Award
- Best Social Media
- Best Places to Work
- Technician of the Year (new)
- Service Advisor of the Year (new)
2026 VISION Scholarships Available
- Amazing Women in Automotive Scholarship
- Educator Scholarship
- Multiple Management & Technical Scholarships, including those honoring Harvey Chan, Tim Cummings, and Anthony Williams
The awards and scholarships will be presented at the VISION Hi-Tech Training & Expo in Kansas City, March 5–8, 2026. The ceremony remains one of the most anticipated highlights of the conference, celebrating the people and organizations making lasting impacts on the industry. Interested applicants can visit visionkc.com/awards-and-scholarships to apply for scholarships or nominate deserving shops and individuals for awards. Self-nominations are welcome.
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VISION Hi-Tech Training & Expo, presented by the Midwest Auto Care Alliance, is the industry’s premier event providing the opportunity for automotive professionals to expand their knowledge and gain new skills, all while networking with leading automotive service industry professionals. VISION offers more than 120 cutting-edge management, technical, and educator training courses and features a 60,000 square-foot exhibit hall showcasing the latest tools, equipment, and technology. With a focus on delivering top-notch training and networking opportunities, VISION brings together professionals from across the automotive service spectrum. For over 30 years, VISION has been the go-to conference for staying ahead in the dynamic and ever-evolving automotive landscape. Information about MWACA and VISION can be found at www.mwaca.org and www.visionkc.com.
