Mitchell Jay – Owner – Vermont Auto Mart Stores (VT)
Mitchell Jay began his automotive career in 1990 as a used car salesperson, quickly advancing to Finance Manager and then General Manager. He acquired his first dealership in 1998, transitioning to Hyundai in 2000. In 2006, he expanded into independent used car sales, later adding a second location with a full-service department in 2022. Mitchell has served on Vermont’s New Motor Vehicle Arbitration Board, the Professional Responsibility Board, and the Oxbow High School Board. He has also held leadership roles with the Vermont Auto Dealers Association and served on the NADA Board.

Mark Weida – Vice President – Region IV for NIADA (CO)
Mark Weida is the owner of Street Smart Auto Brokers in Colorado Springs, Colorado. After over 20 years managing franchised dealerships, Mark decided to become an independent dealer in 2006. He started out wholesaling and opened retail in 2011 with his service center quickly following several years later. Mark also stays active in the industry. He is a past president and chairman of the Colorado Independent Automobile Dealers Association, and he still serves on the CIADA Board of Directors. He served as the President of the Used Car Dealers of Colorado Charity Fund, the charitable arm of CIADA that has raised over $5M in ten years. Currently he serves as Vice President for Region IV for NIADA, and he is the Chair for the NIADA Foundation Board, the charitable arm of NIADA. Mark has been blessed with beautiful daughters and a new grandson that he and his wife of 29 years Shannon intend to spoil rotten.

Guy Thorpe – President – Thorpe Automotive (TN)
Guy Thorpe has been a leader in the East Tennessee automotive industry since 1999, building his success on integrity and exceptional customer service. As president- elect of the Tennessee IADA, he advocates for independent dealers and industry improvements.

A devoted family man and active member of Transformation Church, Guy is deeply involved in the Karns and Knox County communities. He has a passion for mentoring youth, coaching multiple sports, and supporting local charities.

With a commitment to excellence, Guy leads Thorpe Automotive with a customer-first approach, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable car-buying experience.

Brent Carmichael – Director of Education – NIADA.
Carmichael, who has more than 30 years of experience in the industry, including nearly 20 years of training and leading 20 Groups, started with NIADA Jan. 1, 2025.

Previously, he spent 17 years with NCM Associates, leading several 20 Groups across a broad spectrum of the industry.
Before entering training, moderating and consulting full time, Carmichael worked in dealerships for nearly 20 years in several roles. He rose to vice president of Automaster Buy-Here Pay-Here in Arkansas, helping the dealership expand its operations and portfolio before its sale in 2006.