2025 Women in Auto Care Award Winners Announced

LAS VEGAS – November 5, 2025 – Women in Auto Care, a community of the Auto Care Association, today announced its 2025 award recipients during the Women in Auto Care Awards Ceremony, held at this year’s Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) in Las Vegas. The Women in Auto Care Awards annually recognize the exceptional women and companies driving the automotive aftermarket forward, celebrating leadership, achievement, and advocacy across the industry. The awards honor recipients in the following categories: Lifetime Achievement, Outstanding Leadership, Female Shop Owner of the Year, Women of Excellence, Company Ally of the Year and Champion of the Year.

“Each year, we are inspired by the incredible talent recognized through the Women in Auto Care Awards—and 2025 was no exception,” said Elle Lawhead, chair, Women in Auto Care. “With over 125 nominations, we proudly honored eight outstanding individuals and one company during this year’s ceremony. Over the years, these awards have celebrated women across diverse roles in our industry—from warehousing and heavy-duty to shops, manufacturing, and technology—spanning positions such as shop owners, HR leaders, marketers and CEOs. Please join us in congratulating the 2025 Women in Auto Care Award winners!”

The winners of the 2025 Women in Auto Care Awards are:

• Lifetime Achievement: Courtney Pedler, CEO, Autology Data Management
• Outstanding Achievement: Olivia Droney-Newton, senior vice president, category management and customer insights, NA Williams
• Female Shop Owner of the Year: Shari Pheasant, co-CEO, A Master Mechanic
• Women of Excellence: Heather Antrim, commercial category manager, AutoZone
• Women of Excellence: Lauren Briggs, director, sales and marketing, NAPA Auto Care
• Women of Excellence: Tracy Capriotto, director of content, producer, Remarkable Results Radio
• Women of Excellence: Cass Tomac, senior manager, strategic sourcing, Highline Warren
• Company Ally of the Year: Highline Warren
• Women in Auto Care Champion of the Year: Amy Steele, vice president, Nexa Motion Group (NMG)

Lifetime Achievement: Courtney Pedler

Courtney Pedler fell in love with the automotive aftermarket more than 35 years ago, starting as a delivery driver at her father’s auto parts stores, before discovering her true calling—aftermarket content and data. For the past 25 years, she’s devoted her career to making parts information smarter, cleaner and easier to use, believing that great data drives great business. As co-founder and CEO of Autology Data Management Group and Chair of the Automotive Content Professionals Network (ACPN), Pedler blends deep industry expertise with an infectious enthusiasm for a thriving aftermarket. Whether she’s wrangling product data files or championing industry standards for content, she brings the same dedication, curiosity and love that sparked her passion on day one.

“This award means the world to me, said Pedler. “I don’t know if it’s even possible to top this. It reminds me how lucky I am to have spent my life in an industry that challenges me and makes me stronger. It celebrates personal achievement, people, community, and shared passion.”

Outstanding Leadership: Olivia Droney-Newton

Olivia Droney Newton is a proven leader in the automotive aftermarket, leveraging her extensive expertise in marketing, sales, category management and data analytics to drive growth and foster industry advancement. As Vice President of Category Management and Data Insights at N.A. Williams Company, she leads a team of analysts dedicated to empowering clients, customers and sales associates with data-driven decision-making.

Before joining N.A. Williams, Newton was on the manufacturing side of the automotive aftermarket, holding leadership roles at MANN+HUMMEL and Standard Motor Products, where she directed teams across sales, marketing, and category management. She began her career developing category management and product strategies in the tableware industry at Lifetime Brands.

A passionate advocate for industry education and professional development, Newton has been actively engaged in Women in Auto Care since 2014, serving in key leadership roles including chair. She continues to mentor emerging leaders and support key initiatives as an Executive Champion. Newton also serves on the Auto Care Association Category Management Committee and the Advisory Council for Northwood University, where she volunteers with the Category Management program. She supports ACPAC and The University of the Aftermarket Foundation, reflecting her commitment to strengthening the industry’s future. Newton is a recipient of the 2016 Auto Care Association Impact Award: Four for the Future and was named a 2020 Woman at the Wheel honoree. In recognition of her dedication to industry education, Newton was awarded the Automotive Aftermarket Management Education Award in 2025.

She holds a B.A. from Princeton University and an M.B.A. in marketing from NYU Stern School of Business. Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, she balances her professional pursuits with community involvement through the Charlotte Women’s Impact Fund and mentoring in the Ruth G. Shaw Leadership Program. In her free time, she enjoys reading, cooking, playing tennis and spending time with her husband and two daughters.

“I am humbled and honored to receive this award from a community I care for so deeply,” said Newton. “It reflects not just my journey, but the collective strength of women who lift each other up and shape the future of our industry. I’m especially passionate about using this platform to promote automotive education and awareness at the local level—connecting students, schools and industry partners to highlight the rewarding career opportunities that exist across the aftermarket.”

Shop Owner of the Year: Shari Pheasant

Shari Pheasant is far more than a shop owner of 21 years alongside her husband, Jeff — she’s a transformational leader and the visionary behind a highly successful strategic boutique firm dedicated to helping corporate teams dig in, get real, and get results. Known as the “Queen of Horsepower,” Shari blends new-age leadership strategy, predictive technology, and the art of authentic connection to drive organizational change and business growth.

With deep roots in the automotive industry and a passion for people, Shari’s early success as a female shop owner laid the foundation for her next evolution — empowering other business owners and corporate teams to achieve alignment, engagement, and higher ROI through her people-first approach. Her firm works with leaders and teams nationwide, using data-driven insights and emotionally intelligent frameworks to strengthen communication, accountability, and trust — while building resilience, agility, and a sustainable mindset that transforms culture from the inside out.

Shari’s unique ability to blend strategy with heart has made her a sought-after advisor, keynote speaker, and change agent. Whether she’s helping companies elevate culture, coaching executives through leadership challenges, or facilitating transformative team experiences, Shari’s work is grounded in one truth: when people grow, profits follow.

Her mission is clear: to help leaders think deeper, be better, and do more of what matters most.

“For the past ten years, Women in Auto Care has been more than an organization to me; it’s been a powerhouse of bold, visionary women who don’t just adapt to change—we drive it. Winning Shop Owner of the Year is an incredible honor, not just because it reflects the work I’ve poured into my business and my people, but because it represents the strength of women leading with both heart and grit. I am also joining a group of women who are in my heart, that have previously won this award. This award isn’t just a milestone—it’s a statement. It says women belong here, shaping the future of automotive, raising the bar, and rewriting the rules. I’m proud, humbled, and fiercely determined to keep leading that charge.”

Company Ally of the Year: Highline Warren

Highline Warren is a vertically integrated distributor of maintenance consumables with unmatched access to the North American market. Headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, the company operates 21 distribution and manufacturing facilities across North America, offering more than 30,000 products to over 10,000 customers.

 Highline Warren provides access to over 400 trusted brands—including national, owned, and private label products—and serves as a strategic manufacturing partner to top retailers in North America. With industry-leading fill rates and a strategic network that reaches 99% of the U.S. population within two days, the company simplifies the supply chain for its customers. Employing more than 1,700 teammates, Highline Warren is driven by people powered performance.

“Receiving the Company Ally of the Year award is a powerful affirmation of the culture we're building at Highline Warren," said Darcy Curran, Highline Warren CEO. "We're committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming workplace where all of our teammates feel empowered to succeed. Launching our Women's HighWay group has been a meaningful part of our journey, and Cass Tomac played an integral role in developing this outstanding community. We're proud to support women in auto care and build a workplace where everyone thrives.”

Women of Excellence Class: Heather Antrim

Heather Antrim has been with AutoZone for 6 years and is the Senior Commercial Category Manager for Brake Systems, Customer Satisfaction. Since joining AutoZone in 2019 as a Merchandising Intern, she has held progressive roles as a Global Sourcing Merchandiser, Commercial Category Manager, and Category Manager. With a proven track record in optimizing commercial investments and strengthening supplier partnerships, Heather drives operational excellence through data insights, field feedback, and cross-functional collaboration. In her current role, she leads strategy development for Commercial Brake Systems, including buying, pricing, and vendor negotiations, to accelerate category growth and deliver measurable value across complex portfolios. Outside of her specified role, she remains heavily involved in the AutoZone Internship Program as a member of the Merchandising Core Team, providing the same opportunities for the next generation of leaders within our industry.

“To be recognized with this award amongst such an extraordinary group of professional women is humbling to say the least,” said Antrim. “The level of talent, leadership, and dedication represented in our industry is inspiring, and to be counted among them is an honor. This recognition serves not just as a personal milestone but also as a reminder of the values that define our industry and, more importantly, the organization I am lucky enough to be part of. I will carry this distinction with gratitude, using it as motivation to continue striving for impact and growth both personally and professionally. More than anything, this award reinforces my commitment to uphold what makes our industry exceptional and to support the next generation of leaders who will shape the future.”

Women of Excellence Class: Lauren Briggs

Lauren Briggs brings bold creativity and heart to her role as Sales and Marketing Director for NAPA Auto Care. With a decade of experience in the automotive aftermarket, Briggs is a passionate advocate for NAPA’s independent shop owners—developing marketing strategies, strengthening vendor partnerships, and delivering tools that help Auto Care centers grow stronger and smarter. She’s a champion for Women in Auto Care, a mentor to teammates and shop owners, and a constant source of innovation across the industry. From launching major campaigns like Women in NAPA to leading the award-winning “We Believe in Heroes” initiative that raised millions for service members, she makes a real impact. Briggs puts people at the heart of every program, whether it’s mentoring new hires, empowering women in the field, or driving industry change—she shows up with energy, empathy, and an unwavering belief in what’s possible. While still in shock, winning this award means the world to Lauren – she remembers attending her first industry events and being in awe of the powerful women she met, to imagine she is now considered a leader in the industry is something she will never get over.

She intends to use this recognition to help empower future leaders in the industry to follow their dreams and to never be afraid to speak up!

“I still cannot believe I was selected as the winner of this award!” said Briggs. “It is the biggest honor I have received in my career. We spend our entire day working to make this industry stronger and I’m humbled that the contributions are being recognized. This award motivates me to continue waking up for our members each day and pushing to grow the voice of females in the industry! We’ve come a long way in the last 10 years but still have so far to go.”

Women of Excellence Class: Tracy Capriotto

Tracy Capriotto is the Director of Content and Producer for the award-winning Remarkable Results Radio Podcast and the Aftermarket Radio Network. With a proven track record of engaging audiences, Capriotto specializes in delivering automotive industry insights, trends and best practices while fostering community engagement and personal development.

An advocate for diversity and empowerment, Capriotto is involved in the Women in Auto Care community and served as the past president of the Remarkable Results Toastmasters Club. Recognized for her contributions to the industry, she was honored with the “Best Media Outreach to Female Audience” Automotive Communications award in 2022 by Women in Auto Care. She also actively pursues leadership development training to enhance her skills and impact within the automotive industry. These programs have equipped her with the tools and knowledge to lead with confidence, inspire others and drive success in her professional endeavors.

Whether she’s co-leading communication training classes, mentoring industry professionals, or crafting compelling podcasts, Capritto’s philosophy is simple: great leaders don’t just give direction, they help others discover their own potential.

“Being named a Women of Excellence Award recipient is an incredibly meaningful honor for me,” said Capriotto. “It recognizes my dedication to advancing the professionalism of our industry through episodic education and highlights the diverse career opportunities within the automotive industry. This award highlights the power of passion and mentorship in driving change, proving that when we lift others, the entire industry rises together.”

Women of Excellence Class: Cass Tomac

Cass Tomac is an accomplished leader in the automotive aftermarket industry with more than a decade of experience in engineering, sourcing and operations. She has spent the past five years at Highline Warren, serving four years in engineering before transitioning into sourcing, where she drives supplier strategy and operational efficiency across the organization. Prior to joining Highline Warren, she gained valuable experience at GE and Kellogg’s, building a strong foundation in process improvement, supplier management and cross-functional leadership.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Tomac is a strong advocate for women in the industry. She is actively engaged in the Women in Auto Care community and serves as co-chair of Highline Warren’s Women’s Highway network, where she champions initiatives that foster mentorship, professional growth and resilience for women across the company. Her commitment reflects both her passion for the auto care sector and her dedication to empowering the next generation of women leaders.

“With over a decade of experience in the automotive and manufacturing industries, I’ve had the opportunity to grow my career across engineering, sourcing and operations,” said Tomac. “Spending the past five years at Highline Warren and previously working with GE and Kellogg’s. The auto care industry has given me a platform to combine my technical background with my passion for continuous improvement and collaboration. Being recognized with this award is both humbling and means so much to me, it represents not only my personal growth, but also the collective progress of the many women driving change in our industry. It’s an honor to stand among peers who are breaking barriers, supporting one another and shaping the future of the automotive together.”

Champion of the Year: Amy Steele

Amy Steele is the Vice President of Customer Experience at Transend, the e-commerce platform under the NexaMotion Group umbrella. With more than a decade of experience spanning customer success, operations and digital transformation, Steele is passionate about building teams and systems that elevate the customer journey from first interaction to long-term loyalty.

At Transend, she spearheaded the creation of a dedicated support and onboarding team focused on driving user adoption and helping new customers achieve early success. Her approach blends empathy with analytics, leveraging data to forecast trends, streamline operations and strengthen collaboration across sales, product and support.

Beyond her corporate role, Steele is an active member and volunteer within the Women in Auto Care community, where she co-moderates the Balancing Act Connection Circle and contributes to committees, events and mentoring initiatives. Her leadership style is rooted in authenticity, empowerment and connection; whether she’s guiding a new professional, sharing her story on stage or hosting creative networking sessions that bring women in the industry together.

Steele’s dedication to improving the customer experience and advancing women in the automotive aftermarket continues to inspire those around her, one conversation, one process and one relationship at a time.

“Winning this award is incredibly humbling,” said Steele. “Women in Auto Care has been a cornerstone of my personal and professional growth and being recognized by the very community that has inspired, supported and challenged me to grow means more than words can express. I’m honored to give back to an organization that continues to open doors for women across our industry.”

Learn more about the Women in Auto Care community, including upcoming events, scholarships and award opportunities at autocare.org/women-in-auto-care.