William “Bill” Gager announced that he will retire from his position as president of the Automotive Parts Remanufacturers Association on Dec. 31.

During the past 35 years, Gager has made significant contributions to the success of APRA, according to the association.

Under Gager’s leadership the staff of APRA has organized major events for its membership including the annual International Big R Show and Exposition, regional technical clinics, educational seminars, forums and plant tours, as well as implemented popular business management and savings programs such as the Reman ToolBox, AutoBulletins.com, AutoElectricPro.com, and BuyReman.com.

Gager has also been instrumental in leading the association’s lobbying efforts on issues such as addressing the IRS on the core valuation issue or working to pass tax credit legislation through Congress.

Gager has used his knowledge of the industry to help educate congressional leaders about the importance of remanufacturing and the benefits from both a labor and environmental standpoint.

In 1989, Bill, along with Fernand Weiland, created the APRA European Division. This division thrives today with its strong membership of OEMs, Tier 1 & 2 companies, along with private, well-established remanufacturing companies.