Mike Jones, CAI, BAS, GPPA is a nationally recognized auctioneer, real estate broker, educator, and entrepreneur with a career spanning more than four decades. Known for his commanding presence and deep industry expertise, Mike has conducted over 4,000 auctions across real estate, estates, oilfield equipment, aircraft, marine assets, and industrial categories.

He is the founder and President and Director of Mike Jones Auction Group, Inc., as well as the founder of America’s Auction Academy (Dallas, TX) and Co-Owner of the World Wide College of Auctioneering (Des Moines, IA)—two of the most respected auction education institutions in the nation. Through these schools, he has trained thousands of professionals who now represent the industry worldwide.

Mike is a licensed auctioneer in Texas and Tennessee and an active member of both the Texas Auctioneers Association (TAA) and the National Auction Association (NAA). He served as the 56th President of the NAA and was inducted into both the National Auction Association Hall of Fame and the Texas Auctioneers Association Hall of Fame—a rare double distinction recognizing his lifetime contributions to the profession.

A 1993 graduate of the Certified Auctioneers Institute at Indiana University, Mike has continued to champion education and excellence in the field. He earned the 1998 International Auctioneer Championship, achieved the NAA’s “Triple Crown” of professional designations (CAI, GPPA, and BAS), and directed the largest surplus auction in GSA history, generating over $18 million in sales. His global influence extends beyond the United States—he served as keynote speaker for the 2003 South African Auctioneers Institute Convention and is the annual sponsor of the winner of Ireland’s Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers (IPAV) Novice Auctioneer Competition in Dublin. Each year, he provides advanced auction education and mentorship to those winners through America’s Auction Academy.

Mike continues to be a driving force in advancing ethical standards, professional education, and innovation within the auction community.

Craig D. Meier is a distinguished bilingual auctioneer and industry leader whose career spans over two decades of high-profile success. He operates Champion Auctioneers of Ennis, TX, conducting over 300 automobile, real estate, and benefit auctions annually. He also serves as Co-Owner of World Wide College of Auctioneering (WWCA) and America’s Auction Academy.

Craig is a licensed auctioneer in both Texas and an active member of the Texas Auctioneers Association (TAA) and the National Auction Association (NAA). His achievements have earned him national recognition, including:

1999 Texas Rookie Auctioneer Champion 2003 Texas State Auctioneer Champion 2007 World Automobile Auctioneer Champion 2016 U.S. Bid Calling Champion and Lone Star Open Auctioneer Champion Induction into the Texas Auctioneers Association Hall of Fame

Beyond the podium, Craig brings influence through education and mentorship. He has been an instructor at America’s Auction Academy since 2006, WWCA since 2019, and teaches at the Ringman College, helping shape the next generation of auction professionals.

In addition to his auction career, Craig invests in (and is passionate about) outdoor pursuits, ranching and sustainable land management — threads that reflect his commitment to excellence, versatility and leadership both in and out of the ring.

A San Antonio native, Phillip Braun is a respected auction professional and automotive industry expert with more than 25 years of experience in auto auction operations, leadership, and education.

After earning his degree from Southwest Texas State University, Phillip began his career in automotive sales with the Hertz Corporation, where he first discovered the auction method of marketing. His success in that role led him to Manheim Auctions in 1998, where he spent over two decades in a variety of leadership positions. During his tenure, Phillip helped launch Manheim’s first Total Resource Auction in Dallas in 2005, solidifying the company’s reputation as a leader in live and online vehicle remarketing.

A 2003 graduate of the Texas Auction Academy (now America’s Auction Academy), Phillip went on to establish Piptex Auctions, his own independent auction company, and became a trusted educator and mentor in the field. He currently serves as an instructor for both America’s Auction Academy (Dallas, TX) and the World Wide College of Auctioneering (Des Moines, IA), where he teaches students the auto auction process and provides a behind-the-scenes look at how leading companies set and maintain industry standards.

Phillip is an active member of the Texas Auctioneers Association (TAA), National Auction Association (NAA), and National Auto Auction Association (NAAA). He is also a proud supporter of the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children and contributes his time and talents to numerous philanthropic events throughout the year. Known for his deep industry knowledge, approachable teaching style, and commitment to professional excellence, Phillip Braun continues to help shape the future of auto auctions through both his work in the field and his dedication to education.

An auctioneer since 1989, Cheri Boots-Sutton has built a distinguished career defined by perseverance, professionalism, and passion for the auction industry. Over more than three decades in the business, she has become one of the most respected and accomplished auctioneers in the nation, earning multiple national and international titles and recognition from peers across the industry.

Cheri’s competitive achievements include being named the 2012 World Automobile Auctioneer Champion, 1999 International Auctioneer Champion (Women’s Division), and 2001 All-Around World Women’s Champion Auctioneer. These honors reflect her exceptional bid-calling skill, stage presence, and unwavering commitment to excellence in a profession historically dominated by men. She is widely recognized as one of the country’s leading automobile auctioneers, trusted by clients and colleagues alike for her expertise, integrity, and ability to engage and energize audiences.

A graduate of the Missouri Auction School, Cheri is an active member of both the National Auction Association (NAA) and the Texas Auctioneers Association (TAA). She also serves as an instructor at America’s Auction Academy (Dallas, TX) and World Wide College of Auctioneering (Des Moines, IA), where she teaches aspiring auctioneers the art of bid calling, professionalism, and audience connection. She frequently conducts fundraising and benefit auctions for community organizations and nonprofits, using her talents to give back and elevate causes close to her heart. Today, Cheri Boots-Sutton continues to inspire both in the auction ring and in the classroom, mentoring new professionals and demonstrating through her own example that excellence is earned through authenticity, perseverance, and passion.

Trey Gallaway is a nationally recognized auctioneer with more than 25 years of experience in the automotive, real estate, and benefit auction industries. He began his career in 1998 after graduating from the Texas Auction Academy (now America’s Auction Academy) in Dallas, Texas, and has since become one of the leading auctioneers in the nation.

Trey serves as a contract auctioneer for Manheim Metro Dallas, Manheim DFW, Manheim Dallas, and Manheim Mobile Specialty Auctions, consistently ranking among the top producers in the country. For the past seven years, he has been the top seller and highest dollar-volume producer for Pro Financial, Inc., at Manheim Dallas Auto Auction, generating more than $70 million annually in sales. He is also co-founder of Central Texas Auction Services, LLC, which specializes in farm and ranch sales, estates, business liquidations, and real estate auctions.

A 2013 World Champion Automobile Auctioneer, 2023 Texas Lone Star Open Champion, and 2010 Texas State Champion, Trey’s professionalism and charisma have earned him national recognition, including as the featured auctioneer on the Discovery Channel’s “Texas Car Wars.” He serves on the Texas Auctioneers Association (TAA) Board of Directors and is a recipient of the TAA Leadership Award.

Dedicated to advancing the profession, Trey is an instructor at both America’s Auction Academy (Dallas, TX) and the World Wide College of Auctioneering (Des Moines, IA), where he trains aspiring auctioneers in automotive bid calling, presentation, and professional conduct. He is an active member of the TAA, National Auction Association (NAA), and World Automobile Professional Auctioneers Association (WAPAA), and continues to lend his talents to numerous charitable organizations across Texas.

Michael Rogers, CAI, AARE, is a nationally respected auctioneer, educator, and business owner with more than three decades of experience in the auction and real estate industries. A 1993 graduate of the Texas Auction Academy (now America’s Auction Academy), Michael built a distinguished career immediately upon returning from auction school, combining his background in education and business with a deep passion for the auction profession.

Michael earned his bachelor’s degree in Business Management from North Carolina State University and holds both the Certified Auctioneers Institute (CAI) and Accredited Auctioneer of Real Estate (AARE) designations—two of the most prestigious credentials in the industry. A member of the National Auction Association (NAA) and the Auctioneers Association of North Carolina (AANC), he is recognized for his expertise in marketing, advertising, and real estate auction operations.

He is the owner of Rogers Auctioneers and co-owner of Maple Ridge Farms, and has conducted a wide range of auctions nationwide, including real estate, estates, and consignment sales. In the mid-1990s, he founded the annual Denton FarmPark Consignment Auction in North Carolina, featuring antique farm tractors, implements, and steam-powered engines—a tradition he continues to lead today. His contributions to business and community were recognized in 2000, when he was named Chatham County Citizen of the Year.

A former high school teacher and award-winning DECA sponsor, Michael remains deeply committed to education. He serves as an instructor at both America’s Auction Academy (Dallas, TX) and the World Wide College of Auctioneering (Des Moines, IA), where he teaches students the principles of professionalism, marketing, and business management in the auction industry.

Rich Schur, CAI, MPPA, CMEA, BAS, is the Chief Operating Officer and Lead Auctioneer for Schur Success Realty and Auction in Monument, Colorado, and a nationally recognized leader in the auction profession. A 2005 graduate of the World Wide College of Auctioneering, Rich quickly rose through the ranks of the industry, earning the titles of 2006 Colorado Rookie Champion Auctioneer and 2010 Colorado State Champion Auctioneer.

A dedicated professional and lifelong learner, Rich holds multiple industry designations, including CAI (Certified Auctioneers Institute), BAS (Benefit Auctioneer Specialist), and MPPA (Master Personal Property Appraiser) through the National Auction Association (NAA). He also earned his CMEA (Certified Machinery and Equipment Appraiser) from the NEBB Institute and his SPHR (Senior Professional in Human Resources) from the Society for Human Resource Management. His academic background includes a Master’s degree in Continuing Adult Education and a Bachelor’s degree in Workforce Training and Education.

Rich has served as President of the Colorado Auctioneers Association and as a Director on the Board of Directors for the National Auction Association. He has also contributed his expertise as a board member and advisor for numerous training, human resources, and civic organizations nationwide.

An accomplished educator, Rich is a staff instructor for the National Auction Association, teaching designation courses, workshops, and seminars at state and national levels. He also teaches at both America’s Auction Academy (Dallas, TX) and the World Wide College of Auctioneering (Des Moines, IA), where he shares his expertise in auction management, communication, and leadership. Prior to entering the auction industry, Rich worked in law enforcement and higher education, experiences that continue to inform his disciplined, ethical, and people-focused approach to business and teaching.

W. Scott Swenson, CAI, GPPA, is an accomplished and respected professional in the auction industry, bringing more than four decades of experience as an auctioneer, educator, and industry leader. An auctioneer since 1983, Scott teaches at America’s Auction Academy (Dallas, TX) and also serves as an instructor for the World Wide College of Auctioneering (Des Moines, IA).

A graduate of Texas AandM University and Britten Auction Academy, Scott has held numerous leadership roles throughout his career. He is a Past Director of the National Auction Association (NAA) and a Past President and Hall of Fame inductee of the Texas Auctioneers Association (TAA). Scott earned his Certified Auctioneers Institute (CAI) designation in 1993 and has been recognized nationally for his skill and professionalism, including being named the 1992 Texas State Champion Auctioneer and a four-time finalist in the International Auctioneer Championship.

Scott is the President of Jones Swenson Auctions, where he oversees sales of real estate, business liquidations, industrial and commercial assets, and benefit auctions. A licensed real estate broker and personal property appraiser, he holds licenses in eleven states and is approved to conduct auctions for the U.S. Bankruptcy Court. His diverse experience also includes serving as a technical advisor for major motion pictures and conducting movie prop liquidation auctions.

Known for his disciplined approach and extensive industry expertise, Scott continues to mentor and train the next generation of auctioneers. His instruction focuses on bid calling, auction preparation, clerking, and auction management, helping students develop both the technical and business skills required to succeed in today’s competitive marketplace.

Doak Lambert is a veteran auctioneer whose career spans more than three decades, calling cattle, automobiles, and benefit auctions across the United States. A 1985 graduate of Texas AandM University with a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science, he made his way into the auction business while working nights at the Calvert Sale Barn and quickly developed a reputation for commanding the block with confidence and clarity.

Doak founded and serves as CEO of Lambert Auction Company in Texas, where his work ranges from high-profile auto auctions (including participation in the legendary Barrett-Jackson collector car sales) to elite livestock and ranch sales. He has been inducted into the Texas Auctioneers Association (TAA) Hall of Fame and has been honored with the National Auction Association (NAA) President’s Award of Distinction for his volunteer leadership and professional service.

Committed to education and mentorship, Doak serves as an instructor for both America’s Auction Academy (Dallas, TX) and the World Wide College of Auctioneering (Des Moines, IA). In the classroom and on the block, he teaches aspiring auctioneers the art of presentation, audience engagement, and ethical decision-making, blending tradition with modern auction methods.

Driven by relationship building, integrity and excellence, Doak Lambert continues to elevate the auction profession through his teaching, his leadership in the field and his decades of experience at the highest levels of auctioneering.

John Nicholls, CAI, AARE, AMM, is a second-generation auctioneer, educator, and industry leader whose career spans more than 25 years of strategic marketing and high-volume auctions. He serves as President of Nicholls Auction Marketing Group, Inc. where he oversees operations, marketing, and technology for one of the nation’s premier real-estate and commercial auction organizations.

John earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees (in business and marketing) and is a graduate of the World Wide College of Auctioneering. He has conducted hundreds of auctions annually on behalf of Fortune 500 clients and holds advanced industry credentials including CAI, AARE, and AMM.

An active contributor to auction-education, John is an instructor at both America’s Auction Academy (Dallas, TX) and the World Wide College of Auctioneering (Des Moines, IA). In these roles he teaches advanced topics in auction marketing, digital strategy, and professional bid calling, helping students integrate traditional auction technique with modern technology and data insights.

John has held leadership roles in multiple professional associations. He has served as President of the National Auction Association (NAA), is a past President of the Virginia Auctioneers Association, and has been recognized with honors such as the Golden Gavel Award and induction into industry Halls of Fame.

Kurt Johnson, CAI, BAS, is a seasoned auctioneer and educator widely recognized for his sharp business acumen, dynamic stage presence, and philanthropic commitment. With more than 30 years in the profession and over 3,000 fundraising and corporate auctions conducted, his company has helped nonprofit organizations nationally raise more than $100 million.

Kurt began his career in 1989 with a church fundraiser and grew into one of the nation’s leading benefit auction specialists. He has held the titles of Minnesota State Bid Calling Champion (2011) and Minnesota State Champion Ringman (2023), and received the NAA’s Chuck Cumberlin Sportsmanship Award in 2011.

An active leader in the profession, Kurt is a past president of the Minnesota State Auctioneers Association and a member of the National Auction Association. He holds both the CAI (Certified Auctioneers Institute) and BAS (Benefit Auctioneer Specialist) designations and is known for his work consulting, teaching and inspiring auction professionals.

To support the next generation of auctioneers, Kurt instructs at both America’s Auction Academy (Dallas, TX) and World Wide College of Auctioneering (Des Moines, IA), where he teaches courses on benefit auctions, audience engagement, and professional presentation. Free-time for him is spent outdoors with his family, reflecting his belief that strong communities build strong auctions.

T.J. Freije is a nationally-recognized auctioneer and educator, known for his dynamic performance in the ring and his leadership in auction education. Based in Indiana with the family owned firm Freije and Freije Auctioneers, T.J. has helped grow the business into a top-tier name in classic car, equipment, and real-property auctions. In 2024, T.J. earned one of the highest honors in the industry when he won the World Automobile Auctioneer Championship, underscoring his mastery of bid-calling, stage presence, and the highest standard of professionalism.

Beyond the auction block, T.J. is deeply committed to education and mentorship. He serves as an instructor at America’s Auction Academy (Dallas, TX) and the World Wide College of Auctioneering (Des Moines, IA), where he teaches aspiring auctioneers advanced techniques in bid calling, auction strategy, and the business of live and online auctions.

T.J. is known for his engaging teaching style and for helping students bridge traditional auction skills with modern marketing and technology. His practical experience, combined with his instructional roles, make him a trusted leader in advancing the next generation of auction professionals.

John Schultz, AAM, is a 25-year auction industry veteran, respected nationally for his leadership, innovation, and expertise in data-driven marketing. He began his auction career working in his family’s business in rural central Minnesota, where he developed a lifelong passion for the industry and its people.

John is a Partner with Grafe Auction Company, a Minnesota-based, nationwide commercial and industrial auction firm, where he serves on the executive team as Chief Marketing and Technology Officer. His strategic focus on digital transformation and marketing analytics has positioned Grafe Auction Company at the forefront of modern auction practices.

A recognized leader and educator, John currently serves as President of the National Auction Association (NAA) and is one of the lead instructors of the Auction Marketing Management (AMM) designation program, which trains professionals in advanced, data-driven auction marketing strategies. He also serves as an instructor for both the World Wide College of Auctioneering (Des Moines, IA) and America’s Auction Academy (Dallas, TX), where he teaches auctioneers how to integrate marketing, technology, and storytelling to drive success in today’s market.

John is a member of the American Marketing Association (AMA) and a past president of the Minnesota State Auctioneers Association (MSAA), where he served as the organization’s 60th President and as the charter President of the Minnesota State Auctioneers Foundation. His many honors include the 2009 Golden Gavel Award for outstanding service to the auction industry and the 2022 President’s Award of Distinction, presented by the NAA to a member whose conduct has significantly advanced the auction profession.

Shane Ratliff is a highly accomplished auctioneer and educator whose career spans over four decades of professional excellence. A graduate of World Wide College of Auctioneering (Class of 1980), Shane has earned a reputation for his powerful chant, commanding stage presence, and championship-level performances.

His credentials include titles such as Illinois Champion Auctioneer (1988), Indiana Champion Auctioneer (1991), and in 1992 he claimed both the World Champion Automobile Auctioneer and the NAA International Auctioneer Champion honors.

Based in Lemont, Illinois, Shane serves as owner and lead auctioneer of his firm, and he brings his elite performance experience to both live and digital auction platforms. Beyond the block, he is deeply invested in industry education. He has been teaching at the World Wide College of Auctioneering (Des Moines, IA) since 1993 and also serves as an instructor at America’s Auction Academy (Dallas, TX), where he mentors aspiring auctioneers in advanced bid-calling techniques, presentation skills, audience engagement, and business development.

In every role, Shane is committed to upholding high standards of professionalism, ethical conduct, and instructional excellence. His blend of technical mastery, engaging personality, and educational dedication makes him a respected teacher of the next generation of auctioneers— and a trusted leader in the auction profession.

Miles Thomas Autry, 1952-2011, was a past president and Hall of Fame member of the Texas Auctioneers Association, and a past Texas State Champion Auctioneer. He was serving as Secretary-Treasurer of the TAA at the time of his death. Miles was a very successful auctioneer and appraiser and proud alum of Woodrow Wilson High School in Dallas. He owned and operated Miles Autry Auctioneers in Garland, TX. He will be sorely missed.

Rocky Lee Strickland, CAI, BAS, 1950-2007, was very active board member of the Texas Auctioneers Association and was former Mayor Pro-Tem of Lancaster, Texas. Rocky was one of our most popular and energetic instructors. He was a great instructor, great auctioneer and a dear friend. Rocky proudly owned and operated The Auction Block in Lancaster, TX. He will be missed!

Jack Van Ogle, CAI, 1929-2012, was a past president and Hall of Fame member of the Texas Auctioneers Association, a former NAA Director and a TX Senior Bid Calling Champion. Jack was one of our original seven instructors. He owned and operated Ogle Auction & Realty in Greenville, TX until his retirement. Jack was a proud U.S. Marine, an accomplished Auctioneer, excellent horseman and renowned cowboy poet. He will be missed.