VIP Tires' Bemis Honored by Maine Legislature

Jan. 30, 2025

VIP Tires & Service has announced its Bangor, Maine, technician, Johnathan Bemis, has been honored with a legislative sentiment from the Maine State Legislature.  

Bemis received the legislative sentiment on Jan. 28 at the Maine State House in Augusta, Maine, co-sponsored by Representative Gary A. Drinkwater of Milford and Representative Amy J. Roeder of Bangor.  

 The legislative sentiment honors Bemis as a Maine resident for his achievements at national and global levels.  

Bemis received the Technician of the Year award at the 2024 Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) in Las Vegas, Nev., on Nov. 5.  

In June of 2024, Bemis achieved World Class Technician status [Read MTD’s interview with Bemis here.] 

Bemis works in VIP’s Bangor store and began as an Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) technician and Lead Master Technician before becoming a World Class Technician.  

“We are incredibly proud to see John recognized with this well-deserved legislative sentiment,” says Tim Winkeler, president and CEO of Auburn, Maine-based VIP Tires & Service.  

“John’s dedication, skill, and relentless pursuit of excellence have earned him recognition at both the national and global levels, and now his home state is celebrating his remarkable achievements. From earning the prestigious World Class Technician status to being named AAPEX Technician of the Year, John continues to set the bar high for the entire industry. His impact extends beyond technical expertise — he’s an inspiration to his colleagues and a trusted resource for our customers. We are honored to have him as part of the VIP team and look forward to his continued success.”