NAPA announced that the 2007 NAPA ASE Technician of the Year is Kit Johnson of J4 Automotive, Inc., Helena, Montana. Johnson is a 1988 graduate of Northern Montana College, now MSU-Northern, and holds a Bachelor of Technology degree in Automotive Technology with a minor in Business Administration.

Kit served in our armed forces in various capacities spanning two decades, including time in the Marine Corps as a Recon Marine, in the National Guard as an M60 tank driver, and in the Army Reserve as a mechanic in the motor pool. Serving in Desert Storm, he became a "Veteran of Foreign Wars" and has many military commendations for his service to our country. After graduating from Northern, he began work in the automotive profession and eventually worked as an automotive test equipment salesman.

Bob Susor, President of NAPA, writes "Kit's community involvement is probably one of the most extensive we've ever seen in a national winner. Among the 60 organizations or events he participates in each year are serving on various automotive advisory councils for local schools, the East Helena Mayor's Advisory Council, the Helena Area Crimestoppers, the Police Protective Association, the Montana Highway Patrol, Toys for Tots, the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the United Way and many other local charitable organizations. He conducts a fall car care clinic in support of Be Car Care Aware."

Johnson's business has been part of the NAPA AutoCare family since 1995. In 1998, when the AAA Club of Montana began their approved auto repair program as a test with NAPA AutoCare, Kit's facility was the first to apply for and be approved for the AAA program. AAA of Montana has also recognized the service of J4 Automotive with the Top Shop Award in 2001, 2003, 2005 and 2006. He has been certified as an ASE Master Technician since 1987 and holds L1 and alternative fuels credentials.

Johnson's vision for the future is evident in his quote regarding his view of the industry. "Many different forces (are) shaping our future. We must constantly market our customer services as better and more personable, with quality and competent technicians who can maintain customer's vehicles just as well, if not better than the competition. I realize that aligning my shop with providers in aggressive and progressive work forces, competitive and quality repair parts, and proactive information systems are a must for continued growth and success in our dynamic global society." He sees the future of the indus¬try as a "brilliant star that beckons those brave enough to follow. Transportation will always be here, as will service shops. What we service will change with the times - just as it always has."

Kit Johnson has been married to his wife, Viola, for 18 years and they have two daughters, Nikita and Kacy.