Aaron Stokes, the highly respected automotive industry leader and founder of Shop Fix Academy, tragically lost his life in a small plane crash near Steamboat Springs, Colorado, on Friday, February 13, 2026.
According to preliminary reports, a six‑seat turboprop aircraft registered to ALS Aviation LLC of Franklin, Tennessee, crashed into remote mountainous terrain around 12:20 a.m., killing all four people on board, including Stokes.
Stokes was widely recognized as a transformative figure in the automotive repair world. Over a career spanning more than 25 years, he built a reputation as an entrepreneur who turned a single one‑car garage into a multi‑shop operation and a thriving coaching and training business.
His company, Shop Fix Academy, became a leading resource for shop owners across the United States seeking to improve profitability, leadership, and operational excellence.
Industry peers remember Stokes not just for his business success, but for his willingness to help others succeed. He often emphasized practical, real‑world advice and shared lessons from his own journey—from humble beginnings in Franklin, TN, to becoming a sought‑after public speaker, author, and industry mentor.
His insights into leadership, financial resilience, and strategic growth were frequently featured in podcasts, webinars, and at automotive conferences across North America.
Colleagues and friends have begun paying tribute to Stokes’s enduring legacy. Many highlight his contributions to independent repair shops, noting that his work helped countless small business owners sustain and scale their operations in a competitive market.
Beyond his professional achievements, Stokes was known as a devoted family man who often spoke about the importance of balancing business success with personal relationships and community engagement.
Authorities are still investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have both confirmed they are examining the wreckage and flight data to determine what caused the aircraft to go down in the rugged terrain near Emerald Mountain, which overlooks a region famous for outdoor recreation.
News of Stokes’s death has reverberated throughout the automotive sector, prompting expressions of sorrow from business owners, industry associations, and clients whose careers were shaped by his guidance.
Social media channels and industry forums have been filled with messages honoring his entrepreneurial spirit, mentorship, and lasting impact on the trade. Many have described him as a visionary whose grit and heart made a meaningful difference to professionals and small‑business owners alike.
As of now, details about memorial services, obituary information, or funeral arrangements have not been released. Family members, colleagues, and friends are expected to share updates as they come.
In the meantime, tributes continue to pour in highlighting Stokes’s remarkable journey—from a Tennessee garage to an influential voice in the automotive repair industry—and the deep loss felt by the community he inspired.
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