The new $2,500 scholarship goes to Caleb Kleyn in honor of Biermann who dedicated more than 40 years to the heavy-duty aftermarket
San Antonio—The Alliance Commercial Vehicle and Heavy Duty Program has announced Caleb Kleyn is the inaugural recipient of the Pat Biermann Memorial Heavy Duty Scholarship, a new $2,500 award created to support students pursuing careers in the heavy-duty aftermarket.
The scholarship was established in April 2025 to honor the legacy of Pat Biermann, a leader who dedicated more than 40 years to the heavy-duty parts industry. As an advisor to the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance Inc., Biermann played a critical role in building the Alliance’s heavy-duty program and advancing the industry.
“We are especially privileged this year to introduce the Pat Biermann Memorial Heavy Duty Scholarship,” said JC Washbish, president and CEO of the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance. “Pat’s passion, leadership, and vision helped shape our heavy-duty business, and this scholarship ensures his influence will continue to inspire future professionals.”
The award supports students interested in diesel technology, CDL training, fleet management and other heavy-duty fields. As with other Alliance scholarships, applicants must be employees — or children of employees — at an Auto Value, Bumper to Bumper, or Confidence Plus Certified Service Center. Applications were evaluated by a panel of judges through the University of the Aftermarket Foundation.
This new scholarship joins the Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper Scholarship Program, which since 2001 has awarded over $600,000 to students throughout North America.
“This scholarship isn’t just about honoring Pat’s past,” said Mario Gonzalez, Commercial Vehicle and Heavy Duty Program Manager. “It’s about investing in the future he believed in — a strong, skilled, and passionate heavy-duty workforce. Pat devoted more than 40 years to this industry, helping shape it through his leadership, innovation, and mentorship. His legacy as co-founder and longtime president of HD America, and later as a trusted advisor and consultant, continues to inspire the next generation.”
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