
The Commercial Vehicle Solutions Network (CVSN) has integrated the Service Specialists Association (SSA) membership into its operation, the groups announced Friday.
"By combining forces, the new, larger CVSN will represent a more comprehensive spectrum of the independent aftermarket, including a newly created membership category for service centers," CVSN said in a statement.
SSA members will automatically be placed into the service center membership category and an advisory council will be formed with two representatives appointed by the SSA board that will serve as voting members on the CVSN board for the next two years.
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"Joining forces with CVSN is a monumental step forward for SSA members," said William Wild, president of SSA. "This collaboration ensures that our members will not only continue to thrive but will have access to expanded resources, networking opportunities and professional growth through the broader CVSN network. We're excited about the future and the value this integration will bring to service centers across the country."
“Overall, this combination just makes sense,” added Edward Kuo, CVSN executive director. “The expanded CVSN provides legacy SSA and new ‘service center’ members an ideal platform to deepen their business relationships while offering them a new suite of services and representation within our Four Pillars. This also helps CVSN become a more effective and influential association for all our members.”
Former SSA members will enjoy benefits including:
- Discounted attendance to industry events such as Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week (HDAW) and service center-focused training.
- Networking and development opportunities such as The Summit and The Seminar, with new service-focused tracks.
- Access to CVSN Pillar communities, groups that provide opportunities to connect, collaborate and lead in the shaping the future of the commercial vehicle aftermarket.
- Increased financial support for service center members, including funded event participation and service-specific programs for up to three years.
"We're thrilled to welcome SSA members into the CVSN family," said Ian Johnston, CVSN board president. "Together, we are building a more robust and cohesive network that will serve the diverse needs of the commercial vehicle aftermarket. The new service center membership category, along with the creation of an SSA Advisory Council, ensures that the unique needs of this important segment are met, and we look forward to growing together."