19th annual seminar

CANTON An addition at Ohio Auto Supply helped the business accommodate about 120 people for a training program earlier this month.

The crowd also watched the dedication and a ribbon cutting for the addition — a training room next to a pair of service bays.

It was the 19th annual vehicle detailing seminar at Ohio Auto Supply, which makes and sells a line of cleaners and solvents under the PDP Professional Detailing Products brand. The business is at 1128 Tuscarawas St. W.

"The doors to this training center are the doors of opportunity for all of use," Mike Dickson, owner of Ohio Auto Supply and PDP, told the group of trainees. He dedicated the center in memory of his parents, Phil and Ruth Dickson. Max Rubin, Dickson's grandfather began the business in 1933 selling auto parts. Phil Dickson added detailing products in 1970, and in 1983 Phil and Mike started manufacturing the PDP line.

The detailing business has been growing, and Ohio Auto Supply is affiliated with the International Detailing Association, which certifies vehicle detailers similar to the way mechanics are certified.

"It's elevating the industry and the profession," Dickson said of the certifications programs.

Adding the classroom — large enough for 50 people — provides space for video presentations on detailing procedures and products. Dickson said his facility is one of a handful in the country that combines classroom space with full bays were trainees can watch and practice detailing. Along with the regular training sessions, classes also are planned for car detailing enthusiasts.

The initial training program attracted participants from across northern Ohio and western Pennsylvania, Dickson said. Ohio Auto Supply will be hosting more training and certification programs in May and June.