Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Auto Dealer Association in Washington, D.C.
Since 1917, our organization has been the leading advocate for franchised automobile dealers in the Washington Metropolitan area. We represent the interests of 275 corporate members through policy advocacy, industry representation, and community engagement. Our team provides critical resources including vocational training via the Automobile Dealer Education Institute, employee benefits programs, and the Washington Auto Showthe region's largest annual indoor event. With a legacy spanning over a century, we combine deep industry experience with innovative solutions to address modern challenges in automotive retail.Our expertise in legislative affairs ensures dealers have a strong voice in local, state, and national policy discussions. As a trusted authority in the automotive industry, we maintain rigorous standards for ethical business practices while delivering measurable value through member services. Our commitment to transparency and community impact has made us a reliable partner for dealerships and related businesses across the region.
Services
Policy Advocacy
Automotive Training
Auto Show Organization
Member Benefits
Community Support
Details
- Year established: 1917
Highlights and features
- We offer century-long advocacy experience for automotive dealers
- Our ADEI program provides NATEF-certified technician training
- We organize the Washington region's largest annual auto show
- We deliver exclusive member benefits and insurance programs
- Our community initiatives support local charitable organizations
Associations and certifications
- International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (OICA)
Services
Policy Advocacy
We advocate for franchised auto dealers in legislative and regulatory matters at local, state, and national levels. Our team engages with policymakers to protect dealer interests and promote favorable business conditions. This service ensures dealers have a collective voice in shaping industry policies that impact their operations.
Automotive Training
Our NATEF-certified technician training program combines classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training. This initiative addresses workforce shortages by preparing aspiring professionals for careers in automotive technology and vehicle sales through structured educational pathways.
Auto Show Organization
We produce the Washington Auto Show, the region's largest annual indoor event featuring over 600 new vehicles. This platform connects dealers with consumers while showcasing automotive innovation, including electric and connected vehicle technologies to 600+ exhibitors.
Member Benefits
Our comprehensive benefits program offers health, life, and dental insurance options along with property and casualty coverage. Dealers access group purchasing advantages and specialized insurance solutions designed to meet automotive business needs through our affiliated service providers.
Community Support
Through our Community Support Foundation, we coordinate charitable giving to local organizations. Programs include crisis relief donations, support for youth organizations, and partnerships with groups like the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, focusing on regional community development and assistance programs.
People
John P. O'Donnell
President & CEO
Leading WANADA since 2017, John brings extensive automotive industry experience to advocate for dealers across the Washington region through policy initiatives and member services.
Isabel Garcia
Vice President & CFO
Managing financial operations for WANADA, Isabel oversees accounting functions and ensures fiscal responsibility across the organization's multiple programs and services.
Joe Koch
Vice President, Operations
Joe directs day-to-day operations, coordinating between departments to maintain efficient service delivery for member dealerships and associated businesses.
Ed Mullaney
Vice President, Insurance Operations
Ed manages insurance programs, developing comprehensive coverage solutions that protect dealerships and their employees through specialized risk management strategies.
Bob Storin
Vice President, Marketing
Bob leads marketing initiatives, promoting association services and coordinating promotional efforts for the Washington Auto Show and other key events.
Questions
What benefits do WANADA memberships provide?
Members receive policy advocacy, employee benefits programs, auto show participation opportunities, training initiatives, and community support resources.
How does WANADA support automotive education?
Our ADEI program offers NATEF-certified technician training with classroom instruction and paid on-the-job experience for aspiring automotive professionals.
What is the Washington Auto Show?
It's the region's largest annual indoor event showcasing over 600 new vehicles, serving as a key platform for dealers to connect with consumers.
How does WANADA engage with the community?
Through our Community Support Foundation, we coordinate charitable giving to local organizations and crisis relief efforts across the Washington region.
How can dealers access insurance programs?
Dealers can access group insurance plans through our affiliated services, including health, life, dental, property, and casualty coverage options.
What advocacy services are provided?
We represent dealers in legislative matters at all government levels, working to shape policies that support automotive retail business interests.
