VIPAR Heavy Duty Chairman of the Board Bill Nolan Inducted into the Heavy Duty Aftermarket Hall of Fame

Founded in 1952 as the Power Brake and Spring Company, the business was acquired by Nolan’s family in 1973. Nolan contributed immediately, working part‑time as general labor, shop labor, delivery driver, and counter salesperson. He became Financial Controller in 1984, and assumed the role of President in 1989, succeeding his father. Under his leadership, the company evolved into PBS Truck Parts and has modernized operations, expanded to seven locations within Indiana and Michigan, and strengthened its reputation as a trusted, family‑owned distributor.

Nolan has been a member of the VIPAR Heavy Duty Board of Directors since 1994 and has served as Chairman since 2011. During his tenure, VIPAR Heavy Duty has experienced significant growth and transformation, including the acquisition of Power Heavy Duty, the opening of Global Parts Network, and the development of a robust digital ecosystem. The network has expanded to more than 1,000 locations and extended its footprint into Central and South America.

Beginning with a heartfelt thanks to his wife, daughters, and sons-in-law, Nolan moved on to acknowledge the peers and mentors in the industry who have supported and encouraged him.

“I would like to thank my family and friends at VIPAR. I've benefitted from the cohesive teamwork that has made VIPAR Heavy Duty a success over the years,” he said, mentioning David Rex, Elmer Bower, Harvey Peterson, Steve Crowley, and current VIPAR Heavy Duty President and CEO Chris Baer. “VIPAR is the backstop that helped keep our company independent. It has kept us in the game, and made us more competitive. The future looks bright.”

“Bill’s leadership has been instrumental not only to PBS Truck Parts, but to the entire VIPAR Heavy Duty network,” said Baer. “His deep industry knowledge, unwavering integrity, and passion for supporting independent distributors have helped strengthen and elevate the heavy‑duty aftermarket. Bill embodies the values of our organization, and his induction into the Hall of Fame is a well‑deserved recognition of his decades of dedication and impact to the industry.”

Nolan also credited the staff at PBS Truck Parts for consistently rising to meet every challenge.

He concluded with remarks that carried particular significance, coming from a newly inducted Hall of Fame member.

“For all of 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 organizations. Give it all you've got. The time will pass in the blink of an eye, but the friendships will last a lifetime. To distributors, keep getting better. Work on your succession plans. Do everything you can to remain independent. After all, we are the foundation of the aftermarket.”

The Heavy Duty Aftermarket Hall of Fame recognizes exceptional leaders whose achievements, vision, and commitment have meaningfully advanced the heavy‑duty aftermarket industry. The ceremony is a highlight of the annual HDAW Conference, which is owned and operated by the Auto Care Association, Commercial Vehicle Solutions Network (CVSN), and MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers.

Bill Nolan, VIPAR Heavy Duty Chairman of the Board and President & CEO of PBS Truck Parts was inducted into the Heavy Duty Aftermarket Hall of Fame at HDAW26.