FREDERICK, Md. -

Although the National Auto Auction Association postponed its in-person convention this year, NAAA did still find a way to honor those making big waves in the industry, as well as install its leadership for the coming year. Some of these orders of business were conducted during a recent virtual all-member meeting broadcast from NAAA headquarters in Frederick, Md. 

During the meeting, R. Charles Nichols — president of BSC America — was installed as NAAA president for the 2021-2022 term, during a virtual "passing of the gavel" ceremony from outgoing NAAA president Julie Picard. Nichols, who formerly served as NAAA vice president and president-elect, says he will focus on NAAA’s digital job board, and a continued focus on diversity and inclusion, safety, and compliance, during his term as NAAA president. 

As Nichols steps up, Carolina Auto Auction's Eric Autenrieth fills the position of vice president of the NAAA, bringing over 24 years of experience in the auto auction industry. He is currently the owner of Indiana Auto Auction and the general manager of Carolina Auto Auction.

Another order of business was also recently handled, this time by the NAAA Executive Committee,  in regards to a well-deserved industry honor. 

After leading NAAA for 17 years, Frank Hackett has been inducted into the NAAA Hall of Fame. Hackett retired as NAAA CEO in July and now serves in a consultant role for the association.

Under Hackett's leadership, here a just a few of the items of business that were launched and/or established or addressed: 

  • Launched a safety program
  • Established a self-sustaining scholastic foundation 
  • Published studies on key issues such as solving the technician shortage challenge and looking ahead into the auto auction industry’s future

Membership in the NAAA Hall of Fame, which was first launched in 1968, "recognizes individuals whose long-term service to the auto auction industry and NAAA has contributed improvements to remarketing, has worked with the trade organization to benefit its members, and has consistently followed the high standards of the association’s Code of Ethics," NAAA said..