ATLANTA - NAPA AUTO PARTS and the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) have named Jack Gregory of Wassaic, N.Y., the 2009 NAPA/ASE Technician of the Year.

Gregory was selected for the prestigious honor as a result of his decades of automotive experience, endless commitment and service to customers, continual dedication to his employees and industry leadership. Owner of Jack’s Auto Service in Pawling, N.Y., Gregory is an ASE-Certified Master Technician with 13 certifications, including an Advanced Level Specialist (L1) certification. Gregory has been the NAPA Albany Distribution Center NAPA/ASE Technician of the Year for 13 straight years.

His business is recognized as an AAA Approved Auto Repair facility and is part of the ASE Blue Seal of Excellence program. Additionally, Gregory’s entire staff is ASE-certified.

The Technician of the Year award is presented annually by NAPA AUTO PARTS and the ASE to an individual in the automotive repair and maintenance industry that meets a detailed list of prerequisites. The recipient of the award is determined by a panel of former winners, automotive trade media and the president of the ASE.

“The Technician of the Year award is one of the most honorable recognitions in our industry,” said NAPA President Bob Susor. “Jack’s practice of ‘hands on’ problem solving with the latest technology made him an obvious choice for this award. It is with great pride that we present this award to him.”

In addition to his impressive professional accomplishments, Gregory’s community involvement is equally notable. He supports the local school district, the American Heart Association, the Boy and Girl Scouts of America, local little leagues, the Lions Club and several other organizations, both personally and through his business.

Gregory resides in Wassaic, N.Y., with his wife, Linda, and two daughters, Allyson and Kaitlin.