America’s Auto Auction (AAA) this month promoted Karol Kirby Ahmed to general manager of America’s Auto Auction Bowling Green.

“Karol joined America’s Auto Auction in 2017. Her rich auction lineage evolved from her family’s auction business in South Central Kentucky and Middle Tennessee,” said Cam Hitchcock, CEO at AAA, in a news release. “Her late father, Ron Kirby, Sr., served as auctioneer to numerous organizations and was a well-beloved figure in the auction industry.”

Laura Taylor, senior vice president at AAA added, “Karol's years of auction experience are impeccable, and the cheering crowd when I made the announcement was more proof that she is the right leader for this location.”

Local media followed the announcement, with Kentucky NBC affiliate WNKY television running a story on women-lead auctions.

The intro to reporter Meghann Stamps’ story states, “America’s Auto Auction Bowling Green is unintentionally breaking gender barriers. While many men work in their fleet and sales departments, it just so happens their lot operations manager, office manager, controller, logistics manager, and regional vice president are occupied by women.”

“We are still maneuvering the era between a male-oriented industry and the evolving concepts of equality and inclusion,” Taylor said. “My years in the industry have seen a great positive change in how women are valued and the breaking down of gender barriers at auto auctions.”

A Western Kentucky University graduate, Karol Kirby Ahmed also completed the Certified Auctioneers Institute at Indiana University. Her award-winning marketing and co-ownership of Kirby Auto Auction underlines her advantage as general manager at AAA Bowling Green.

“This iconic auto auction in Bowling Green, Kentucky is rich in history and success. I look forward to advancing it further with the aid of our exceptional team. I am honored and excited to dive into this opportunity,” Ahmed said.