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Check out the latest news from Power Heavy Duty and the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies.
6/3/2025
VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies Partners with AACF to Bring Support in Times of Need
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies is proud to announce a new partnership with the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF), extending the foundation’s reach to the heavy duty aftermarket community to provide critical support to industry members and their immediate family during times of personal crisis.
Since 1959, AACF has helped individuals and families facing financial hardship due to unexpected adversity such as natural disasters, catastrophic medical conditions, life-changing accidents, and devastating fatalities. Through this new partnership, AACF’s support will now be available to individuals working in the heavy duty aftermarket and their immediate family members during the hardest moments of their lives.
The process to apply for financial support is simple and can take as little as five to seven days. Once eligibility is established, an application is completed and sent to the AACF Recipient Committee for review. If approved, the funds can be sent to the recipient or directly to a business, such as hospitals, funeral homes, or landlords.
“We pride ourselves in our efficiency because we know that when people need help, time is not always on our side. We can help much faster than most employers and government programs and will do everything possible to expedite the process,” said John Kairys, Executive Director, AACF.
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies is honored to help promote the foundation's mission by raising awareness of these valuable resources, providing support through charitable giving efforts, and serving as a liaison within the heavy duty aftermarket.
The AACF is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. With the exception of two full-time staff positions, AACF is run entirely by volunteers from the aftermarket industry.
“Our partnership with AACF furthers our commitment to supporting the heavy duty aftermarket community—not only in business, but in life. It reflects the heart of this industry – a community that shows up for one another when it matters most. We encourage everyone in our network to spread the word about this important resource, and when able, support its mission to help those in need in our industry,” said Chris Baer, VIPAR Heavy Duty President and CEO.
For more information, please visit https://hd.aftermarketcharity.org.
VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies Welcomes New Program Manager Tom Ruud
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies announced Tom Ruud has joined its team as Program Manager. Tom will be working in multiple capacities including Program Management, Global Parts Network (Product Distribution Center and Brake Related Product Management), and Business Systems. He will report to Larry Griffin, Vice President of Program Management.
Ruud brings 13 years of heavy-duty industry experience to the team, with a proven track record in product and program management, supply chain management, and production and warehouse operations. He previously served as Director of Supply Chain at Wheelco Truck & Trailer Parts and Service, which was acquired by FleetPride, Inc. last year. Most recently, he was Sr. Manager of FleetPride’s OE Operations. Over the course of his career in the heavy-duty aftermarket, he has gained valuable experience in product pricing and procurement, globally sourced products, rebate management, and ERP software implementation.
“We are excited to welcome Tom to the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies. His extensive industry experience brings valuable insight that will support our continued growth. In addition to his role as Program Manager, Tom will be involved in several strategic initiatives that are critical to our long-term success. Having team members on board who understand the complexities of the supply chain and today’s evolving business systems is essential, and Tom’s previous experience positions him well to help navigate those efforts. We look forward to his contributions to the success of the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies for many years to come,” said Griffin.
Ruud will be based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
“What I’ve always loved about the heavy-duty industry is that, while it’s large and complex, it still feels like a small, tight-knit community. It’s a relationship-driven business, full of good, reliable, hardworking people. When I first entered the industry 13 years ago I was amazed at how quickly things were evolving, especially in areas like marketing, supply chain, and technology. I’ve seen firsthand how this industry has not only caught up, but in many ways, has surged ahead,” said Ruud.
“As for VIPAR Heavy Duty, I’ve known the organization and its leadership for many years, and the decision to join their team was easy. It’s the culture that drew me in—VIPAR Heavy Duty is a well-run organization that genuinely cares about its people and its role in the industry. Surrounding yourself with good people makes all the difference.”
RBR Truck Parts Becomes a Member of the Power Heavy Duty Network
RBR Truck Parts, with three locations in Texas, recently joined Power Heavy Duty. Founded in 2018, RBR Truck Parts LLC is a heavy-duty parts distributor serving the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex.With three locations across the region, RBR provides aftermarket parts for all truck makes and models. They cater to owner-operators, local fleets, service centers, and municipal accounts, offering high-quality products to keep their customers’ vehicles running efficiently.The Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex, home to 8.5 million people across 200+ cities, is a major hub for the trucking industry. RBR’s Hutchins, Texas, location is strategically positioned near Interstate 45, just 250 miles north of Houston, one of the nation’s largest ports. Additionally, they have locations near a large rail/container yard and major warehouse operations to serve the region’s trucking needs.RBR proudly serves a diverse customer base in North Central Texas. They understand the needs of the community – delivering reliable truck parts at competitive prices with customer service that prioritizes trust and expertise. They stock a wide selection of aftermarket truck parts, including engine components, suspension parts, brake systems, wheels and tires, filters, fluids, accessories, and more. Their Texas locations include a 14,000-square-foot showroom and warehouse in Hutchins, supported by a 5,000-square-foot facility in Duncanville and a 7,000-square-foot branch in Fort Worth. Their team is led by owner Rony Santos and general manager Cesar Perez.“RBR Truck Parts is a well-established business known for honesty, integrity, and their strong ties in the community. They are dedicated to growing their business with quality parts from Power Heavy Duty’s network of supplier partners, and we look forward to supporting them with great programs and true group value,” said Jim Pennig, Vice President of Business Development, VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies.
Founded in 2018, RBR Truck Parts proudly serves customers from three locations in North Central Texas.
RBR Truck Parts Becomes a Member of the Power Heavy Duty Network
RBR Truck Parts, with three locations in Texas, recently joined Power Heavy Duty. Founded in 2018, RBR Truck Parts LLC is a heavy-duty parts distributor serving the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex.With three locations across the region, RBR provides aftermarket parts for all truck makes and models. They cater to owner-operators, local fleets, service centers, and municipal accounts, offering high-quality products to keep their customers’ vehicles running efficiently.The Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex, home to 8.5 million people across 200+ cities, is a major hub for the trucking industry. RBR’s Hutchins, Texas, location is strategically positioned near Interstate 45, just 250 miles north of Houston, one of the nation’s largest ports. Additionally, they have locations near a large rail/container yard and major warehouse operations to serve the region’s trucking needs.RBR proudly serves a diverse customer base in North Central Texas. They understand the needs of the community – delivering reliable truck parts at competitive prices with customer service that prioritizes trust and expertise. They stock a wide selection of aftermarket truck parts, including engine components, suspension parts, brake systems, wheels and tires, filters, fluids, accessories, and more. Their Texas locations include a 14,000-square-foot showroom and warehouse in Hutchins, supported by a 5,000-square-foot facility in Duncanville and a 7,000-square-foot branch in Fort Worth. Their team is led by owner Rony Santos and general manager Cesar Perez.“RBR Truck Parts is a well-established business known for honesty, integrity, and their strong ties in the community. They are dedicated to growing their business with quality parts from Power Heavy Duty’s network of supplier partners, and we look forward to supporting them with great programs and true group value,” said Jim Pennig, Vice President of Business Development, VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies.
Founded in 2018, RBR Truck Parts proudly serves customers from three locations in North Central Texas.
VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies Partners with AACF to Bring Support in Times of Need
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies is proud to announce a new partnership with the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF), extending the foundation’s reach to the heavy duty aftermarket community to provide critical support to industry members and their immediate family during times of personal crisis.
Since 1959, AACF has helped individuals and families facing financial hardship due to unexpected adversity such as natural disasters, catastrophic medical conditions, life-changing accidents, and devastating fatalities. Through this new partnership, AACF’s support will now be available to individuals working in the heavy duty aftermarket and their immediate family members during the hardest moments of their lives.
The process to apply for financial support is simple and can take as little as five to seven days. Once eligibility is established, an application is completed and sent to the AACF Recipient Committee for review. If approved, the funds can be sent to the recipient or directly to a business, such as hospitals, funeral homes, or landlords.
“We pride ourselves in our efficiency because we know that when people need help, time is not always on our side. We can help much faster than most employers and government programs and will do everything possible to expedite the process,” said John Kairys, Executive Director, AACF.
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies is honored to help promote the foundation's mission by raising awareness of these valuable resources, providing support through charitable giving efforts, and serving as a liaison within the heavy duty aftermarket.
The AACF is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. With the exception of two full-time staff positions, AACF is run entirely by volunteers from the aftermarket industry.
“Our partnership with AACF furthers our commitment to supporting the heavy duty aftermarket community—not only in business, but in life. It reflects the heart of this industry – a community that shows up for one another when it matters most. We encourage everyone in our network to spread the word about this important resource, and when able, support its mission to help those in need in our industry,” said Chris Baer, VIPAR Heavy Duty President and CEO.
For more information, please visit https://hd.aftermarketcharity.org.
VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies Welcomes New Program Manager Tom Ruud
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies announced Tom Ruud has joined its team as Program Manager. Tom will be working in multiple capacities including Program Management, Global Parts Network (Product Distribution Center and Brake Related Product Management), and Business Systems. He will report to Larry Griffin, Vice President of Program Management.
Ruud brings 13 years of heavy-duty industry experience to the team, with a proven track record in product and program management, supply chain management, and production and warehouse operations. He previously served as Director of Supply Chain at Wheelco Truck & Trailer Parts and Service, which was acquired by FleetPride, Inc. last year. Most recently, he was Sr. Manager of FleetPride’s OE Operations. Over the course of his career in the heavy-duty aftermarket, he has gained valuable experience in product pricing and procurement, globally sourced products, rebate management, and ERP software implementation.
“We are excited to welcome Tom to the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies. His extensive industry experience brings valuable insight that will support our continued growth. In addition to his role as Program Manager, Tom will be involved in several strategic initiatives that are critical to our long-term success. Having team members on board who understand the complexities of the supply chain and today’s evolving business systems is essential, and Tom’s previous experience positions him well to help navigate those efforts. We look forward to his contributions to the success of the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies for many years to come,” said Griffin.
Ruud will be based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
“What I’ve always loved about the heavy-duty industry is that, while it’s large and complex, it still feels like a small, tight-knit community. It’s a relationship-driven business, full of good, reliable, hardworking people. When I first entered the industry 13 years ago I was amazed at how quickly things were evolving, especially in areas like marketing, supply chain, and technology. I’ve seen firsthand how this industry has not only caught up, but in many ways, has surged ahead,” said Ruud.
“As for VIPAR Heavy Duty, I’ve known the organization and its leadership for many years, and the decision to join their team was easy. It’s the culture that drew me in—VIPAR Heavy Duty is a well-run organization that genuinely cares about its people and its role in the industry. Surrounding yourself with good people makes all the difference.”
RBR Truck Parts Becomes a Member of the Power Heavy Duty Network
RBR Truck Parts, with three locations in Texas, recently joined Power Heavy Duty. Founded in 2018, RBR Truck Parts LLC is a heavy-duty parts distributor serving the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex.With three locations across the region, RBR provides aftermarket parts for all truck makes and models. They cater to owner-operators, local fleets, service centers, and municipal accounts, offering high-quality products to keep their customers’ vehicles running efficiently.The Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex, home to 8.5 million people across 200+ cities, is a major hub for the trucking industry. RBR’s Hutchins, Texas, location is strategically positioned near Interstate 45, just 250 miles north of Houston, one of the nation’s largest ports. Additionally, they have locations near a large rail/container yard and major warehouse operations to serve the region’s trucking needs.RBR proudly serves a diverse customer base in North Central Texas. They understand the needs of the community – delivering reliable truck parts at competitive prices with customer service that prioritizes trust and expertise. They stock a wide selection of aftermarket truck parts, including engine components, suspension parts, brake systems, wheels and tires, filters, fluids, accessories, and more. Their Texas locations include a 14,000-square-foot showroom and warehouse in Hutchins, supported by a 5,000-square-foot facility in Duncanville and a 7,000-square-foot branch in Fort Worth. Their team is led by owner Rony Santos and general manager Cesar Perez.“RBR Truck Parts is a well-established business known for honesty, integrity, and their strong ties in the community. They are dedicated to growing their business with quality parts from Power Heavy Duty’s network of supplier partners, and we look forward to supporting them with great programs and true group value,” said Jim Pennig, Vice President of Business Development, VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies.
Founded in 2018, RBR Truck Parts proudly serves customers from three locations in North Central Texas.
VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies Partners with AACF to Bring Support in Times of Need
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies is proud to announce a new partnership with the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF), extending the foundation’s reach to the heavy duty aftermarket community to provide critical support to industry members and their immediate family during times of personal crisis.
Since 1959, AACF has helped individuals and families facing financial hardship due to unexpected adversity such as natural disasters, catastrophic medical conditions, life-changing accidents, and devastating fatalities. Through this new partnership, AACF’s support will now be available to individuals working in the heavy duty aftermarket and their immediate family members during the hardest moments of their lives.
The process to apply for financial support is simple and can take as little as five to seven days. Once eligibility is established, an application is completed and sent to the AACF Recipient Committee for review. If approved, the funds can be sent to the recipient or directly to a business, such as hospitals, funeral homes, or landlords.
“We pride ourselves in our efficiency because we know that when people need help, time is not always on our side. We can help much faster than most employers and government programs and will do everything possible to expedite the process,” said John Kairys, Executive Director, AACF.
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies is honored to help promote the foundation's mission by raising awareness of these valuable resources, providing support through charitable giving efforts, and serving as a liaison within the heavy duty aftermarket.
The AACF is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. With the exception of two full-time staff positions, AACF is run entirely by volunteers from the aftermarket industry.
“Our partnership with AACF furthers our commitment to supporting the heavy duty aftermarket community—not only in business, but in life. It reflects the heart of this industry – a community that shows up for one another when it matters most. We encourage everyone in our network to spread the word about this important resource, and when able, support its mission to help those in need in our industry,” said Chris Baer, VIPAR Heavy Duty President and CEO.
For more information, please visit https://hd.aftermarketcharity.org.
