Catalyst was selected to build awareness of the competition among future participants, school teachers and administrators, and industry professionals, as well as the general public. In addition to providing millions of dollars in scholarships, the automotive competition will bring 50 pairs of the best young automotive technicians from across the U.S. to AAA Michigan headquarters in Dearborn, Mich., in mid-June to represent their respective high schools and states and compete for the national title.

"We are excited to work with Catalyst Public Relations on this program and feel the agency's fresh and energetic approach to media relations is exactly what we need to generate awareness and excitement for the Ford/AAA Student Auto Skills competition," said John Morse, manager of Ford/AAA Student Auto Skills. "The competition exemplifies AAA and Ford's commitment to automotive excellence that we hope the students will carry into successful careers."

The selection of Catalyst by AAA underscores the continued growth of the fast-growing consumer public relations agency.

"AAA is a brand is steeped in American tradition and excellence, and we are honored that they selected us as their public relations partner for the Ford/AAA Student Auto Skills," said Bret Werner, Managing Partner of Catalyst. "We look forward to helping promote this competition and, ultimately, fostering the development of tomorrow's automotive technicians."

About Ford/AAA Student Auto Skills
Dearborn, Mich. The Ford/AAA Student Auto Skills competition tests students' automotive knowledge, workmanship and problem-solving abilities with a written test as well as a race against the clock to diagnose and properly repair intentionally "bugged" Ford vehicles. Ford and AAA are dedicated to the competition as part of their commitment to the future of automotive service in America.

About Catalyst
Catalyst, founded in October of 2005, is at the forefront of strategic media relations through its extensive knowledge of traditional and emerging media. The agency partners with the foremost brands such as NASCAR, Under Armour, vitaminwater, SUBWAY Restaurants, Timex, and [yellow tail] to reach the hearts and minds of consumers who are passionate about sports, entertainment and leading an active lifestyle. Catalyst has offices in New York, Charlotte and Los Angeles. Join the Catalyst experience at www.catalystpublicrelations.com.