The US Tire Industry Association (TIA) has opened nominations for the 2026 Marvin Bozarth ETS Technician of the Year Award, following the inaugural edition of the award at the 2025 OTR Tire Conference. Named for the OTR tyre and retread industry legend and tireless advocate for technician education, the award recognises an outstanding OTR technician who demonstrates excellence in service, safety, and professionalism. The winner will receive an all-expenses-paid trip for themselves and a guest to the 2026 OTR Tire Conference in Orlando, Florida.
The prize package includes:
- Round-trip airfare
- Hotel accommodations
- Ground transportation to and from the airport at the Conference
- Complimentary conference registration (including meals and one leisure activity)
- Golden Hard Hat Plaque
To qualify for the award, nominees must:
- be an employee of a TIA member company in good standing;
- have successfully completed Basic CTS and Basic ETS training programmes;
- have a minimum of three years of experience as an OTR technician;
- and be available to attend the 2026 OTR Tire Conference.
Other nomination requirements include:
- one nomination per company;
- a letter of recommendation from a store manager, assistant manager, service manager, and/or safety personnel;
- a letter of recommendation from at least one salesperson and one customer;
- and photo(s) of the service truck and/or tool compartment(s).
Nominations can be made online here before the 1 October 2025 deadline. The TIA is seeking sponsorship contributions from industry partners in order to assist in giving the honouree the “experience of a lifetime” – funds raised will directly support travel, lodging, and registration for the honoree, while celebrating the essential work OTR technicians perform every day. Sponsorship forms are available here, and should be returned to Maggie Blevins.
