Rob Mills Named 2025 WIX Filters Counter Pro of the Year

WIX Filters, a global manufacturer of filtration products, and AMN/Counterman magazine named Rob Mills the 2025 Counter Professional of the Year. Mills is a commercial parts professional at Fisher Auto Parts in Beckley, West Virginia.

The Counter Professional of the Year award, sponsored by WIX Filters and presented at AAPEX in Las Vegas, annually recognizes an automotive aftermarket parts professional whose dedication, work ethic and expertise elevate their business and the profession as a whole.

Mills has spent more than 30 years in the automotive aftermarket, earning a reputation as one of the most reliable and trusted counter professionals in his region. His career began in an unlikely way—he entered the business with no prior automotive experience and had to teach himself everything from the ground up. Determined to succeed, he studied vehicle systems, learned from experienced technicians and developed a deep understanding of parts and applications. That drive to improve never faded.

Over the decades, Mills became known for his meticulous attention to detail, technical accuracy and ability to track down even the hardest-to-find parts. His commitment to service has earned him the loyalty of independent garages, fleet operators and dealerships throughout southern West Virginia and beyond. His leadership and example have helped train and inspire younger counter pros to bring the same level of pride to their work.

Outside of work, Mills is devoted to his family, which includes his wife Leigh Ann, two children and three grandchildren. He enjoys spending weekends with them and competing in local bass-fishing tournaments—a hobby he compares to his work behind the counter, where success comes from patience, focus and persistence.

As part of the Counter Professional of the Year award, Mills and his wife received an all-expenses paid trip to Las Vegas for AAPEX 2025. He was honored during the AWDA luncheon and was presented the award during the AMN/Counterman Counter Professional of the Year reception.