Honouring Steve Fletcher’s legacy as he transitions from leadership
By Dalbert Livingstone, Chairman, Automotive Recyclers of Canada
Congratulations on the publication of the 19th issue of the Canadian Auto Recyclers Magazine!
This magazine has chronicled the ongoing development of the auto recycling industry, and has become one of the must-read publications for our sector. The representation of the industry as a collection of professionals has helped propel the industry forward. As much as the technology and equipment utilized in the industry is profiled—it is the people that drive auto recycling ahead. Many of these people have become my personal friends and definitely helped my business. Auto recyclers are all about collaboration, and that shows in this issue and all of the previous Canadian Auto Recyclers publications.
One person has been central to not only this magazine, but many of the progressive initiatives coming out of the professional auto recycling industry in Canada over the last 30-plus years. That is, of course, our long-serving Managing Director, Steve Fletcher.
As many of you know, or will find out, Steve is stepping down from his day-to-day responsibilities with both the Automotive Recyclers of Canada (ARC), and the Ontario Automotive Recyclers Association (OARA). Retiring probably isn’t in Steve’s vocabulary—transitioning is probably a better word. While I reluctantly accept that Steve won’t be our day-to-day guy to solve problems, create solutions and represent our industry, I am heartened by the fact that he will be involved in the industry in some capacity in the future.
Not aware of Steve’s accomplishments? Here is a partial list: founded ARC, OARA’s first Executive Director, Green Recycled Parts branding, CAREC, Retire Your Ride, Car Heaven, Switch Out, Tundra Takeback, VIN branding, Tacoma Buyback, EASR licensing, Grants in Gear, International Roundtable on Auto Recycling (IRT), EV Roadmap, writer of hundreds of articles on auto recycling, ELV Plastics Roadmap, ARA Star Awards, and the startup and editorial advisor to the Canadian Auto Recyclers. Just to name a few. I was so pleased to see Steve recognized at the 2024 Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA) Convention in Reno with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Another honour, this time bestowed on Steve from our American colleagues, that is so well deserved.
A tribute is being planned for Steve at the OARA Convention in Niagara Falls in March. A couple of hours of recognition for a lifetime of advancement of auto recycling. It doesn’t seem right, but it’s what Steve wants.
“I would rather the focus be on the great things within this industry, rather than on what I may have accomplished. Auto recycling and the great people who work hard everyday have been instrumental in anything I have been able to do. Lots of work left to do—let’s all get to it.”
Wise but humble words from a person we have all come to respect and admire.
