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Check out the latest news from North America's Leading Truck Parts Network.
8/6/2025
VIPAR Heavy Duty Launches the Nucleus Knowledge Center Online Training Platform
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies has launched the Nucleus Knowledge Center™, an all-new online training platform designed specifically for heavy-duty truck parts professionals. The new resource provides training courses, reporting, feedback, and certificates of completion in a user-friendly format for both learners and administrators.
Basic, intermediate, and advanced courses are available to learners through on-demand, online classes and videos and instructor-led, recorded webinars. Content supports all areas and roles in the heavy duty parts business, including counter staff, outside sales, and technicians. For administrators, an intuitive dashboard makes it easy to assign training and then track course enrollment and completion. Quizzes and assessments are automatically initiated, and certificates of completion are awarded.
Built on a world-class learning management system, the platform is exclusively available to distributors within the VIPAR Heavy Duty and Power Heavy Duty networks.
“The launch of the Nucleus Knowledge Center represents a pivotal step in advancing workforce development across the heavy-duty aftermarket,” said Jeff Paul, VIPAR Heavy Duty Vice President of Marketing.
“As the industry undergoes a generational transition, training is more mission-critical than ever. For distributors, the platform delivers accessible, consistent, and customizable training that strengthens product knowledge, enhances customer service, and drives long-term business performance. In turn, it helps suppliers maximize the return on their training investments and ensures that those selling and servicing their products are prepared to do so with knowledge and confidence.”
Development of the Nucleus Knowledge Center was led by Al Vaisvila, Training/End User Program Manager for VIPAR Heavy Duty. Working closely with distributors, suppliers, and a professional learning management system provider, Vaisvila ensured the platform was designed with both learners and administrators in mind.
“Our distributors are busy running their businesses. Finding, scheduling, and monitoring quality training can be daunting on top of the everyday attention and tasks that need to be performed. This platform significantly reduces that burden and simultaneously empowers their team to identify the right parts, solve customer challenges, and maintain strong, lasting relationships,” said Vaisvila.
“This is just the beginning of a long-term initiative for continuous learning and innovation, and one that underscores our commitment to supporting both our distributors and suppliers. This is not a one-size-fits-all solution – it’s a platform built to evolve. We’re starting strong, and once you're on this path of continuous learning, opportunities for growth continue to unfold,” added Chris Baer, VIPAR Heavy Duty President & CEO.
VIPAR Heavy Duty's new online training platform, the Nucleus Knowledge Center, was designed specifically for heavy-duty truck parts professionals and is exclusively available to members of the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies.
VIPAR Heavy Duty Names Joe Meyer Vice President of Business Development
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies is proud to announce the promotion of Joe Meyer to Vice President of Business Development. Meyer brings 35 years of experience in the heavy duty aftermarket and has been an integral part of the VIPAR Heavy Duty organization, serving as Program Manager since 2018.
Meyer has been responsible for leading strategic supplier relationships and developing high-value programs across VIPAR Heavy Duty and its family of companies. Known for his thoughtful, strategic approach and ability to connect supplier capabilities with distributor needs, Meyer has played a key role in advancing several of the organization’s largest and most successful programs.
“Joe is a terrific program manager who has built deep relationships across the industry,” said Larry Griffin, Vice President of Program Management. “He skillfully aligns supplier strengths with customer requirements, resolves challenges in a fair and professional manner, and represents VIPAR with integrity. While we’ll miss him in Program Management, I’m confident he’ll thrive as Vice President of Business Development.”
Meyer’s extensive career includes sales and sales management roles with Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems, Grote Industries, Borg Warner Automotive, and Chicago Rawhide (now SKF). His dual experience in sales and program management—along with a keen understanding of both supplier and distributor needs—positions him exceptionally well for his new role, where he will oversee the organization’s growth initiatives and partnerships across The Americas.
“Joe has spent his entire career in sales and strategy. He’s a planner, a thoughtful leader, and someone who never takes shortcuts,” said Chris Baer, President and CEO of VIPAR Heavy Duty. “He’s worked closely with each of our department heads, knows our business inside and out, and understands the pressures that both our distributors and suppliers face. Having someone with his knowledge, vision, and people skills on our leadership team is a real advantage.”
Meyer holds a degree from Southwest Missouri State University and will continue to be based out of his office in St. Louis, Missouri.
“I am truly blessed with this opportunity, and I look forward to working with my team, distributors, and suppliers to mutually grow the business as VIPAR Heavy Duty moves forward. The industry continues to change and evolve, and I look forward to the challenges that it will bring,” said Meyer.
VIPAR Heavy Duty Announces Retirement of Jim Pennig, Vice President of Business Development
VIPAR Heavy Duty congratulates Jim Pennig, who will retire from his role as Vice President of Business Development for the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies, effective June 30, 2025.
For nearly two decades, Pennig has served as a key member of the executive management and leadership teams, playing a pivotal role in the organization’s strategic growth and success. His tenure has been marked by major milestones, including significant expansion of both the VIPAR Heavy Duty and Power Heavy Duty networks, the development and execution of the company’s expansion strategy in Mexico and Latin America, and the foundational work on its national accounts program.
Widely respected across the heavy duty aftermarket industry, Pennig is known for his calm and measured approach, relentless work ethic, and deep commitment to collaboration and results. His colleagues, distributor members, supplier partners, and peers regard him as a trusted leader who brings integrity and vision to every opportunity.
“Jim’s contributions to our organization and the industry are immeasurable,” said Chris Baer, President and CEO, VIPAR Heavy Duty. “His leadership, strategic insight, and unwavering dedication have helped shape who we are today. We are incredibly grateful for his service and wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement.”
VIPAR Heavy Duty extends its sincere appreciation to Jim Pennig for his years of leadership and lasting impact on the organization and the heavy duty aftermarket.
Joe Meyer, Program Manager for the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies since 2018, will succeed Pennig as Vice President of Business Development. With 35 years of sales and business development experience in the heavy-duty aftermarket, Meyer is well-versed in the dynamics of the market, which will prove highly beneficial in driving value for distributors and managing relationships with supplier partners. Pennig and Meyer have spent significant time collaborating to ensure a successful transition.
VIPAR Heavy Duty Announces Retirement of Jim Pennig, Vice President of Business Development
VIPAR Heavy Duty congratulates Jim Pennig, who will retire from his role as Vice President of Business Development for the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies, effective June 30, 2025.
For nearly two decades, Pennig has served as a key member of the executive management and leadership teams, playing a pivotal role in the organization’s strategic growth and success. His tenure has been marked by major milestones, including significant expansion of both the VIPAR Heavy Duty and Power Heavy Duty networks, the development and execution of the company’s expansion strategy in Mexico and Latin America, and the foundational work on its national accounts program.
Widely respected across the heavy duty aftermarket industry, Pennig is known for his calm and measured approach, relentless work ethic, and deep commitment to collaboration and results. His colleagues, distributor members, supplier partners, and peers regard him as a trusted leader who brings integrity and vision to every opportunity.
“Jim’s contributions to our organization and the industry are immeasurable,” said Chris Baer, President and CEO, VIPAR Heavy Duty. “His leadership, strategic insight, and unwavering dedication have helped shape who we are today. We are incredibly grateful for his service and wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement.”
VIPAR Heavy Duty extends its sincere appreciation to Jim Pennig for his years of leadership and lasting impact on the organization and the heavy duty aftermarket.
Joe Meyer, Program Manager for the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies since 2018, will succeed Pennig as Vice President of Business Development. With 35 years of sales and business development experience in the heavy-duty aftermarket, Meyer is well-versed in the dynamics of the market, which will prove highly beneficial in driving value for distributors and managing relationships with supplier partners. Pennig and Meyer have spent significant time collaborating to ensure a successful transition.
VIPAR Heavy Duty Launches the Nucleus Knowledge Center Online Training Platform
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies has launched the Nucleus Knowledge Center™, an all-new online training platform designed specifically for heavy-duty truck parts professionals. The new resource provides training courses, reporting, feedback, and certificates of completion in a user-friendly format for both learners and administrators.
Basic, intermediate, and advanced courses are available to learners through on-demand, online classes and videos and instructor-led, recorded webinars. Content supports all areas and roles in the heavy duty parts business, including counter staff, outside sales, and technicians. For administrators, an intuitive dashboard makes it easy to assign training and then track course enrollment and completion. Quizzes and assessments are automatically initiated, and certificates of completion are awarded.
Built on a world-class learning management system, the platform is exclusively available to distributors within the VIPAR Heavy Duty and Power Heavy Duty networks.
“The launch of the Nucleus Knowledge Center represents a pivotal step in advancing workforce development across the heavy-duty aftermarket,” said Jeff Paul, VIPAR Heavy Duty Vice President of Marketing.
“As the industry undergoes a generational transition, training is more mission-critical than ever. For distributors, the platform delivers accessible, consistent, and customizable training that strengthens product knowledge, enhances customer service, and drives long-term business performance. In turn, it helps suppliers maximize the return on their training investments and ensures that those selling and servicing their products are prepared to do so with knowledge and confidence.”
Development of the Nucleus Knowledge Center was led by Al Vaisvila, Training/End User Program Manager for VIPAR Heavy Duty. Working closely with distributors, suppliers, and a professional learning management system provider, Vaisvila ensured the platform was designed with both learners and administrators in mind.
“Our distributors are busy running their businesses. Finding, scheduling, and monitoring quality training can be daunting on top of the everyday attention and tasks that need to be performed. This platform significantly reduces that burden and simultaneously empowers their team to identify the right parts, solve customer challenges, and maintain strong, lasting relationships,” said Vaisvila.
“This is just the beginning of a long-term initiative for continuous learning and innovation, and one that underscores our commitment to supporting both our distributors and suppliers. This is not a one-size-fits-all solution – it’s a platform built to evolve. We’re starting strong, and once you're on this path of continuous learning, opportunities for growth continue to unfold,” added Chris Baer, VIPAR Heavy Duty President & CEO.
VIPAR Heavy Duty's new online training platform, the Nucleus Knowledge Center, was designed specifically for heavy-duty truck parts professionals and is exclusively available to members of the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies.
VIPAR Heavy Duty Names Joe Meyer Vice President of Business Development
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies is proud to announce the promotion of Joe Meyer to Vice President of Business Development. Meyer brings 35 years of experience in the heavy duty aftermarket and has been an integral part of the VIPAR Heavy Duty organization, serving as Program Manager since 2018.
Meyer has been responsible for leading strategic supplier relationships and developing high-value programs across VIPAR Heavy Duty and its family of companies. Known for his thoughtful, strategic approach and ability to connect supplier capabilities with distributor needs, Meyer has played a key role in advancing several of the organization’s largest and most successful programs.
“Joe is a terrific program manager who has built deep relationships across the industry,” said Larry Griffin, Vice President of Program Management. “He skillfully aligns supplier strengths with customer requirements, resolves challenges in a fair and professional manner, and represents VIPAR with integrity. While we’ll miss him in Program Management, I’m confident he’ll thrive as Vice President of Business Development.”
Meyer’s extensive career includes sales and sales management roles with Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems, Grote Industries, Borg Warner Automotive, and Chicago Rawhide (now SKF). His dual experience in sales and program management—along with a keen understanding of both supplier and distributor needs—positions him exceptionally well for his new role, where he will oversee the organization’s growth initiatives and partnerships across The Americas.
“Joe has spent his entire career in sales and strategy. He’s a planner, a thoughtful leader, and someone who never takes shortcuts,” said Chris Baer, President and CEO of VIPAR Heavy Duty. “He’s worked closely with each of our department heads, knows our business inside and out, and understands the pressures that both our distributors and suppliers face. Having someone with his knowledge, vision, and people skills on our leadership team is a real advantage.”
Meyer holds a degree from Southwest Missouri State University and will continue to be based out of his office in St. Louis, Missouri.
“I am truly blessed with this opportunity, and I look forward to working with my team, distributors, and suppliers to mutually grow the business as VIPAR Heavy Duty moves forward. The industry continues to change and evolve, and I look forward to the challenges that it will bring,” said Meyer.
VIPAR Heavy Duty Announces Retirement of Jim Pennig, Vice President of Business Development
VIPAR Heavy Duty congratulates Jim Pennig, who will retire from his role as Vice President of Business Development for the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies, effective June 30, 2025.
For nearly two decades, Pennig has served as a key member of the executive management and leadership teams, playing a pivotal role in the organization’s strategic growth and success. His tenure has been marked by major milestones, including significant expansion of both the VIPAR Heavy Duty and Power Heavy Duty networks, the development and execution of the company’s expansion strategy in Mexico and Latin America, and the foundational work on its national accounts program.
Widely respected across the heavy duty aftermarket industry, Pennig is known for his calm and measured approach, relentless work ethic, and deep commitment to collaboration and results. His colleagues, distributor members, supplier partners, and peers regard him as a trusted leader who brings integrity and vision to every opportunity.
“Jim’s contributions to our organization and the industry are immeasurable,” said Chris Baer, President and CEO, VIPAR Heavy Duty. “His leadership, strategic insight, and unwavering dedication have helped shape who we are today. We are incredibly grateful for his service and wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement.”
VIPAR Heavy Duty extends its sincere appreciation to Jim Pennig for his years of leadership and lasting impact on the organization and the heavy duty aftermarket.
Joe Meyer, Program Manager for the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies since 2018, will succeed Pennig as Vice President of Business Development. With 35 years of sales and business development experience in the heavy-duty aftermarket, Meyer is well-versed in the dynamics of the market, which will prove highly beneficial in driving value for distributors and managing relationships with supplier partners. Pennig and Meyer have spent significant time collaborating to ensure a successful transition.
VIPAR Heavy Duty Launches the Nucleus Knowledge Center Online Training Platform
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies has launched the Nucleus Knowledge Center™, an all-new online training platform designed specifically for heavy-duty truck parts professionals. The new resource provides training courses, reporting, feedback, and certificates of completion in a user-friendly format for both learners and administrators.
Basic, intermediate, and advanced courses are available to learners through on-demand, online classes and videos and instructor-led, recorded webinars. Content supports all areas and roles in the heavy duty parts business, including counter staff, outside sales, and technicians. For administrators, an intuitive dashboard makes it easy to assign training and then track course enrollment and completion. Quizzes and assessments are automatically initiated, and certificates of completion are awarded.
Built on a world-class learning management system, the platform is exclusively available to distributors within the VIPAR Heavy Duty and Power Heavy Duty networks.
“The launch of the Nucleus Knowledge Center represents a pivotal step in advancing workforce development across the heavy-duty aftermarket,” said Jeff Paul, VIPAR Heavy Duty Vice President of Marketing.
“As the industry undergoes a generational transition, training is more mission-critical than ever. For distributors, the platform delivers accessible, consistent, and customizable training that strengthens product knowledge, enhances customer service, and drives long-term business performance. In turn, it helps suppliers maximize the return on their training investments and ensures that those selling and servicing their products are prepared to do so with knowledge and confidence.”
Development of the Nucleus Knowledge Center was led by Al Vaisvila, Training/End User Program Manager for VIPAR Heavy Duty. Working closely with distributors, suppliers, and a professional learning management system provider, Vaisvila ensured the platform was designed with both learners and administrators in mind.
“Our distributors are busy running their businesses. Finding, scheduling, and monitoring quality training can be daunting on top of the everyday attention and tasks that need to be performed. This platform significantly reduces that burden and simultaneously empowers their team to identify the right parts, solve customer challenges, and maintain strong, lasting relationships,” said Vaisvila.
“This is just the beginning of a long-term initiative for continuous learning and innovation, and one that underscores our commitment to supporting both our distributors and suppliers. This is not a one-size-fits-all solution – it’s a platform built to evolve. We’re starting strong, and once you're on this path of continuous learning, opportunities for growth continue to unfold,” added Chris Baer, VIPAR Heavy Duty President & CEO.
VIPAR Heavy Duty's new online training platform, the Nucleus Knowledge Center, was designed specifically for heavy-duty truck parts professionals and is exclusively available to members of the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies.
