Leadership 2.0 Kicks Off in Charlotte

Aftermarket professionals attend the University of the Aftermarket's tactical leadership program

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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This week, aftermarket professionals are attending the University of the Aftermarket's Leadership 2.0 – Session 2 from Charlotte, North Carolina. The program offers a powerful learning experience with excellent presenters, strong industry support, and a robust group of aftermarket leaders. Chase Mueller, Category Manager at XL Parts / The Parts House, shared his perspective on the Sunday sessions, which included a welcome reception and a session on 'How to Make the Most of Your Growth Journey' from Chris Williams, President & CEO of NA Williams Company.

Why it matters

The University of the Aftermarket Foundation, Auto Care Association, and MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers provide scholarships that make this leadership program possible, helping to develop the next generation of aftermarket professionals. The program aims to equip attendees with the skills and knowledge to drive the industry forward during a time of evolution.

The details

The week began with a welcome reception at the Hendrick Automotive Group Training Center, where the class had the chance to reconnect, reflect on the last six months, and prepare for the week ahead with James Odell. The group also heard a session from Chris Williams, President & CEO of NA Williams Company, a 93-year-old manufacturers' rep agency with a long history of supporting multiple channels in the automotive aftermarket. Williams shared key takeaways such as treating people well, finding and being a mentor, staying adaptable, asking the right questions, and focusing on long-term financial stability over 'get rich quick' thinking.

  • The University of the Aftermarket's Leadership 2.0 – Session 2 is taking place this week in Charlotte, North Carolina.
  • The week began with a welcome reception on Sunday, March 9, 2026.

The players

Chase Mueller

Category Manager at XL Parts / The Parts House.

Chris Williams

President & CEO of NA Williams Company, a 93-year-old manufacturers' rep agency in the automotive aftermarket.

University of the Aftermarket Foundation

Provides scholarships to make the Leadership 2.0 program possible.

Auto Care Association

Provides scholarships to make the Leadership 2.0 program possible.

MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers

Provides scholarships to make the Leadership 2.0 program possible.

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What they’re saying

“Excited to be back kicking off Leadership 2.0 – Session 2. It's great reconnecting with familiar faces from Session 1 and seeing the dedication each team has put in over the past six months. Together, we're working to develop solutions that will help move the automotive aftermarket forward. Stay tuned—the industry should expect new ideas and opportunities ahead.”

— Chase Mueller, Category Manager, XL Parts / The Parts House (aftermarketnews.com)

“Treat people the way you want to be treated. Find—and be—a mentor for the next generation. Stay adaptable and seek new opportunities for growth. Ask the right questions to uncover the best solutions for customers. 'Always check the shelf'—take care of the customer.”

— Chris Williams, President & CEO, NA Williams Company (aftermarketnews.com)

What’s next

The Leadership 2.0 program will continue throughout the week in Charlotte, with attendees expected to develop new ideas and opportunities to help move the automotive aftermarket forward.

The takeaway

The University of the Aftermarket's Leadership 2.0 program is equipping the next generation of aftermarket leaders with the skills and knowledge needed to drive the industry forward during a time of evolution. By providing scholarships and a robust learning experience, the program is investing in the future of the automotive aftermarket.