ATLANTA - NAPA AUTO PARTS and the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) have named Bill Steele the 2010 NAPA/ASE Parts Specialist of the Year. Steele is the parts specialist at Adams County Auto Supply in Gettysburg, Penn., which is one of three stores owned by Sam Shafer, Brad Shafer and Carol Witthoff. Steele is the eleventh individual to receive this national recognition award, which is presented annually to an outstanding automotive parts specialist within the NAPA system.

Steele, an ASE parts specialist in the Automobile Parts (P2) category, has dedicated his career to the automotive industry. Having served in a variety of capacities, he uses his many years of experience to provide outstanding service to every customer. Steele stays current on the latest automotive techniques and practices by participating in numerous technical training schools and clinics offered by NAPA suppliers and Quaker City Motor Parts.

"Steele was the unanimous selection for this honor as decided by the judging panel of ASE, trade press, university and aftermarket industry association representatives," said NAPA President Bob Susor. "He is an excellent choice for this recognition and a fine representative for parts specialists throughout our industry, ASE and NAPA."

Steele's long history in the automotive industry began at age nine when he would help at a "filling station" that was eventually purchased by his father. Through the summers and during high school, he worked alongside his dad learning the service business. At age 18, Steele became a full-time partner and helped manage the operation. His strong passion for the business lead him to buy-out his father in 1990 and turn Steele's Sales and Service into a NAPA AutoCare Center. In 2006, Steele joined Adams County Auto Supply and made a career change to the parts side of the business as a way to stay involved in the industry and use his expertise in the automotive aftermarket.

In addition to Steele's dedication to the automotive industry, he is also very involved in family activities and the community. He has coached local youth basketball, baseball and football teams and serves as the vice president of the New Windsor Recreation Council, a position he's held for seven years. Steele is also president of the VFW Post 8806 Men's Auxiliary and organizes charity events for the group.

Steele currently resides in Union Bridge, Md. with his wife, Linda, sons William and Christopher and step-children Collin and Caely.