A family emergency led Bill Nolan into the independent aftermarket in 1989. Nearly 40 years later he hasn’t left, and on Tuesday was inducted into the Heavy Duty Aftermarket Hall of Fame at the opening general session at Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week (HDAW) in Grapevine, Texas.
Nolan was overcome with emotion in accepting the award. He immediately thanked his wife Jennifer, his daughters and sons-in-law, his grandchildren, his parents, the workforce of PBS Truck Parts, mentors and friends across the aftermarket and the industry at large for the honor.
“I never thought I would be old enough to receive this award, let alone be qualified,” Nolan joked Tuesday in his induction speech. “I’m surprised and I’m honored. How fast time has passed.”
Nolan joined his family’s company Power Brake & Spring in 1989 when his father was diagnosed with cancer. Known for his steady, selfless leadership, Nolan led the company through the sudden change and helped it continue to thrive. He joined the VIPAR Heavy Duty Board of Directors in 1994 and was named chairman in 2011, a position he still holds to this day.
Throughout his career, he’s also led the expansion and growth of Power Brake & Spring into PBS Truck Parts, the introduction of its Michigan division and more. Today the company has seven locations across Indiana and Michigan.
“The great group of people whom I work with every day, this is honor is partially yours,” he said.
During Tuesday’s induction, Nolan was introduced by last year’s Hall of Fame recipient Dominic Grote, who spoke highly of Nolan’s leadership both within the industry and outside of it. Beyond his work with PBS Truck Parts and VIPAR, Nolan also is a trustee at his alma mater Hillsdale College, and in 2022 he was a co-chair of HDAW.
Nolan encouraged all in the audience to commit to the aftermarket like he has. He was spirited in his support of the independent aftermarket and its importance to trucking and the U.S. economy and believes it is through collaboration and cooperation that the industry can continue to thrive in the years ahead.
He also urged all to enjoy their time in the aftermarket and have rewarding careers like he’s enjoyed.
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“This is a great industry. I’ve enjoyed the little part I’ve played in keeping the ball rolling. Let’s keep it that way,” he said. “For all you young people, it’s up to you. It’s up to you to keep networking with your peers to develop long, lasting relationships to become leaders of your organization. Give it all you’ve got. The time will pass in the blink of an eye but the friendships will last a lifetime.”
