CAR WASH AWARDS
OCTOBER 5-7th, 2026
ATLANTIC CITY, NEW JERSEY
Hall Of Fame
The Hall of Fame recognizes individuals and companies who have made a lasting impact on the car wash industry through innovation, leadership, and long-term dedication. From family-owned roots to industry leadership, recipients have helped shape the way carwashes operate today—building businesses, advancing technology, and giving back to the industry along the way.
Tom Hoffman, Jr.
2025
Tom Hoffman Jr. is recognized for his decades of leadership, innovation, and commitment to advancing the car wash industry. Building on a family business that began in 1965, he helped grow Hoffman Car Wash into a leading multi-location operation while continuing to evolve its services, technology, and customer experience.
His work in expanding operations, developing equipment through Hoffman InnovateIT, and staying deeply engaged with the industry reflects a career dedicated to progress.
Dave Ellard
2024
Dave Ellard (Triple Play Car Wash) built his business the old-school way—through hard work, consistency, and a real focus on people. What started as a single location in 2008 has grown into a multi-site operation focused on team development, training, and creating opportunities for others. Now, as President of the International Carwash Association, Dave is bringing that same mindset to a larger stage, helping guide the future of the industry while staying grounded in the realities of running a wash. From building a business to building people, his story is a strong example of long-term commitment to the carwash industry.
William Gorra
& Al West
2023
In 2023, two outstanding industry leaders were inducted into the Hall of Fame—Bill Gorra and Al West of Simoniz USA, Inc.
Bill Gorra (with the award accepted on his behalf by Will Gorra) and Northeast Car Wash Sales Manager Al West were honored together at the Awards Luncheon in Atlantic City.
Their recognition reflects years of dedication, leadership, and impact on the car wash industry—representing not just a company, but a legacy of excellence and commitment.
Most Distinguished Person
The Most Distinguished Person award is bestowed on an individual who demonstrates a high level of dedication and devotion to the promotion and advancement of the professional carwashing industry.
2025
Mike Mountz
CARWASH ASSOCIATION OF PENNSLYVANIA
The Most Distinguished Person Award honors individuals who show exceptional dedication to advancing the professional carwash industry. This year’s recipient, Mike Mountz, exemplified that through innovation and by founding Grace for Vets—a program that provides free carwashes to veterans every November 11 in recognition of their service. What began as one idea has grown into a global nonprofit, with thousands of participating carwashes. In 2024 alone, 4,309 locations gave away over 390,000 free washes. Mike led the mission for years before passing it on to Mark Curtis of Splash. Learn more at graceforvets.com.
Mike was presented the award by longtime friend Tom Hoffman Sr., in a heartfelt tribute. True to form, Mike credited the many people behind the program, taking little credit for the lasting impact he’s made on the industry.
EMERGING LEADER
The NRCC’s Emerging Leader award is meant to acknowledge and push the industry’s youngest and brightest to new heights while encouraging them to continue in their path as industry leaders.
2025
Melanie Agudelo
ScrubADub Auto Wash Center, Massachusetts
The NRCC’s Emerging Leader Award recognizes rising talent shaping the future of the carwash industry.
Melanie Agudelo of ScrubaDub Auto Wash Center in Massachusetts is an assistant manager known for her people-first leadership and commitment to her team, customers, and community—earning her the Spirit of ScrubaDub award at a young age.
Make a Nomination FOR OUR NEXT EMERGING LEADER
Emerging Leader Nomination
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