Colin Foster of Gates Corporation Named Chair of Modern Industry eXpertise Executive Committee

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. – MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers is proud to announce Colin Foster, Zone Sales Manager, Gates Corporation, as chair of its next generation leadership council Modern Industry eXpertise (MiX). Foster succeeds Jeff O'Hara, Director of Sales Retail Markets, Automotive Batteries, East Penn Manufacturing, who served as MiX chair in 2024.

MiX is an exclusive leadership council focused on empowering the next generation of aftermarket leaders. Through its three core pillars—professional development, industry challenges, and reverse mentoring—MiX fosters collaboration, innovation, and growth among young professionals poised to lead the industry.

"I am thrilled to take on the role of chair for the MiX executive committee," said Foster. "As a founding member, I have had the privilege of witnessing MiX's growth and evolution. This council represents the best and brightest in our industry and I look forward to continuing our mission of sharing insights and ideas to advance our industry and support those within it."

"I am so grateful to MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers and MiX for supporting me in my role as chair over the last year," said O'Hara. "Since joining MiX in 2017, it has been a pleasure working with so many great people and learning from some true industry titans. 2025 will be another great year for MiX with Colin's leadership and dedication taking the council to new heights."

MiX continues to focus on addressing the unique challenges faced by vehicle aftermarket suppliers while empowering young professionals to take on leadership roles. Under Foster's leadership, the council aims to expand participation, enhance professional development opportunities, and tackle pressing industry challenges through collaboration and innovation.

For more information about MiX, please visit mema.org/networking-groups/modern-industry-expertise.

About Modern Industry eXpertise

Modern Industry eXpertise is an exclusive leadership council dedicated to empowering the next generation of aftermarket leaders. MiX achieves this through reverse mentoring, professional development, and addressing industry-related challenges. For more information, visit mema.org/networking-groups/modern-industry-expertise.

About MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers

MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers exclusively serves manufacturers of aftermarket components, tools and equipment, and related products, an important part of the automotive parts manufacturing industry which supports over 900,000 American jobs in all 50 states. MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers is a recognized industry change agent—promoting a collaborative industry environment, providing a forum to address issues, and serving as a valued resource for member companies. Members represent all areas of the aftermarket including light vehicle, commercial vehicle, and remanufacturing. MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers is a membership group within MEMA, The Vehicle Suppliers Association.

MEMA is the leading North American trade association for vehicle suppliers, parts manufacturers, and remanufacturers. Automotive and commercial vehicle suppliers are the largest manufacturing sector in the United States and lead the way in new vehicle innovations. MEMA has been the voice of the vehicle supplier industry since 1904. Its more than 1,000 members are Strong by Association.

  Members supply the aftermarket with the parts that keep millions of vehicles on the road, fueling international commerce and meeting society's transportation needs. MEMA members are committed to safety and sustainability.

MEMA has offices in Southfield, Mich.; Research Triangle Park, N.C.; and Washington, D.C. Learn more at mema.org/aftermarket-suppliers.