CertaPro Awards Reveal Blueprint for Success in a Shifting Industry

AUDUBON, PA – February 05, 2026 – CertaPro Painters®, North America’s largest painting franchise, has concluded its annual Leadership Conference by recognizing the franchise owners and painting teams who exemplify excellence in a rapidly evolving industry. While the ceremony celebrated high-quality service and growth, a deeper look reveals a strategic blueprint for navigating the challenges of the modern home services market, from skilled labor shortages to the demand for digital integration.

At the pinnacle of the event, the company's most prestigious honor, the 2025 CertaCup, was awarded to Aaron and Michelle Lewis, owners of CertaPro Painters® of Northwest Arkansas. Their victory, chosen from over 330 businesses, underscores a crucial industry trend: success is no longer just about the quality of the brushstroke, but the strength of the business model behind it.

The Masterpiece of Management

For Aaron and Michelle Lewis, who are entering their 20th year in business, the CertaCup is a testament to sustained innovation. The couple has been instrumental in piloting system-wide initiatives that have been adopted across the franchise network. They played a key role in launching leadership models like CertaHealth, a program designed to help franchise owners build more cohesive and efficient leadership teams. Furthermore, the Lewises have been at the forefront of introducing and championing new technology solutions, helping to modernize operations for the entire CertaPro system.

"All of our success this year was a true team effort," said Aaron Lewis. "Everyone showed up, took ownership of their role, and stayed focused on delivering the quality and experience we promise our customers." His wife and business partner, Michelle Lewis, added, "I'm incredibly proud of the culture we've built and the people who make this business what it is."

Their local success in Arkansas, which includes an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and multiple "Best of Houzz" awards for customer service, provides a tangible link between their innovative management practices and exceptional customer experiences. This combination of local execution and system-wide leadership demonstrates a new paradigm for franchise success.

Defining Quality Beyond the Brushstroke

The annual awards serve as more than internal recognition; they act as a benchmark for what constitutes quality in today's home services landscape. Customers now expect seamless communication, professional project management, and transparent processes—qualities CertaPro aims to standardize with its "Certainty Service System™". The CertaCup finalists reflect this high standard across diverse markets:

• Alfredo Flores and Manuel Sanchez of Central & Northeast Houston, TX
• JJ Darr of Dayton, OH
• Mitch Berliner, Peter Buttenwieser, and John DeLuca of Westchester, NY and Southern CT
• Gary Sabean of the Fraser Valley, BC

This emphasis on consistent, high-level service is a direct response to a more discerning consumer base. In an industry where trust and reliability are paramount, CertaPro's focus on celebrating franchisees who excel in these areas reinforces its brand promise. It also highlights the professionalization of the skilled trades, where business acumen is as critical as technical skill.

The People Behind the Paint

While franchise owners set the strategy, the awards also shine a spotlight on the craftspeople whose work forms the foundation of the company's reputation. This recognition is particularly poignant amidst a severe and worsening skilled labor shortage across North America. By celebrating longevity and excellence, CertaPro underscores the value of its experienced workforce.

Jim Kmiec of CertaPro Painters® of Fox Valley North, IL, was recognized as a top Residential Painter. With over two decades at the company, he is often requested by name, a testament to his consistent quality. "He has left a mark of excellence on the painting industry," says his franchise owner, Kevin Holmberg.

Similarly, Juan Quijada and his team from CertaPro Painters® of Columbus, which holds a BBB accreditation since 2005, were celebrated for producing over $1 million in completed jobs in 2025—a staggering figure that speaks to both skill and efficiency.

On the commercial side, Oscar Santamaria of CertaPro Painters® of Rhode Island, who has been with the company since 2002, was lauded for his professionalism and ability to tackle complex challenges. In Texas, Robert Garcia and his RNG Painting team from CertaPro Painters® of Austin were recognized for their ability to manage large-scale projects on time and on budget.

These individuals represent the backbone of the home services industry. Their dedication and expertise are the antidote to the industry's labor challenges, proving that investing in and retaining skilled talent is a cornerstone of sustainable growth.

Navigating a Changing Industry Landscape

The achievements celebrated by CertaPro are set against a backdrop of significant industry disruption. The skilled trades are grappling with the dual pressures of a shrinking workforce and the rapid pace of technological change. CertaPro's strategy, as reflected in its award winners, appears to be one of proactive adaptation.

The leadership initiatives championed by franchisees like the Lewises, coupled with the company's investment in proprietary software for sales, scheduling, and project management, address the need for greater operational efficiency. This digital transformation allows franchisees to manage their businesses more effectively, from lead generation through final invoicing, meeting the modern customer's expectation of a seamless digital experience.

"The franchise owners and painting teams we're recognizing this year raise the bar for our entire organization," said CertaPro Painters® President and CEO Mike Stone. "Their leadership, commitment to their work and communities, and professionalism are what continue to move our brand forward." In an industry defined by constant change, this focus on leadership, craftsmanship, and innovation is not just a formula for winning awards, but for building a resilient and forward-looking enterprise.