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Professional automotive recycler Chad Counselman, Counselman Automotive Recycling in Mobile, Alabama, was welcomed as the new President of the Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA) this past weekend at the organization’s 76th Annual Convention and Exposition in Charlotte, North Carolina. Prior to his naming as President, Counselman had served as Secretary, Second Vice President and First Vice President of ARA and will now play a leading role in helping guide and shape the Association’s initiatives and direction. “I am honored to represent my fellow auto recyclers,” said Counselman, in his first remarks as ARA President. “Truly and honestly, my mission is to go out and positively influence others in the industry.” Counselman was born into the business and is a third-generation automotive recycler. His father and grandfather started Counselman Automotive Recycling in 1966. Counselman and his brother, James, bought the business in 2008. “As a very devout Christian, I honestly believe that God opened a door for me as a leader. I have a servant’s heart and I enjoy leadership. I believe we can affect change through leadership. I want to be a positive force of change in our industry,” said Counselman. “It will be a pleasure working with Chad during his tenure as ARA President,” said ARA Executive Director Sandy Blalock. “I have known Chad through his various volunteer roles over the past several years and am confident that his experience in the industry will be a great value to ARA.” Counselman brings a wealth of experience from his position as President of the Alabama Automotive Recyclers Association, which he founded in 2008, and as a past Regional Director for ARA. He is active in his local community and church.