About the American Towing & Recovery Institute
Advancing Education, Safety & Standards in Towing and Recovery Nationwide
The American Towing & Recovery Institute (ATRI) is a membership-based organization dedicated to elevating the standards of training, certification, and professional development in the towing and recovery industry. Founded by Wes Wilburn, a nationally recognized educator and industry leader, ATRI brings together decades of experience, expertise, and commitment to serve towing professionals across North America.
📍Corporate Headquarters
6041 N. Lindbergh Blvd.
Hazelwood, MO 63042
📍 Training Facility
3991 Elm Point Rd
Saint Charles, MO 63301
📞 Phone: (910) 747-9000 & (636)947-3184
📠 Fax: (910) 486-8930
📧 Email: info@americantowingandrecoveryinstitute.org
🔧 Our Mission
To deliver industry-leading education, certification, and training programs that empower towing and recovery operators with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to perform safely, efficiently, and professionally. We aim to improve the public perception of the towing industry, strengthen operator safety, and support a culture of excellence.
🎓 Certifications & Training Programs
ATRI provides hands-on and classroom-based certification programs for light-, medium-, and heavy-duty towing and recovery. Training includes:
Florida Certified Towing & Recovery Operator (Endorsements: ABCDEF123)
WreckMaster Level 6/7 (Endorsements: A, H, L)
TRAA Level 1
Qualified Rigger (OSHA 1926 Subpart CC) Levels 1 & 2 – Train the Trainer
HAZMAT Awareness Training (OSHA 1910.120)
National Fire Academy Heavy Extrication
TIMS (Traffic Incident Management Systems) – Train the Trainer
Crosby Group Risk Management Training
Specialized Electric & Alternative Fuel Vehicle Recovery Training
🏆 Recognition & Contributions
Named one of the Top 6 Instructors in the Towing Industry by American Towman Show
2002 President’s Award recipient from Professional Wrecker Operators of Florida
Published over 100 articles in major trade publications
Founder of multiple state towing certification programs
Past Board Member of the International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame & Museum
Featured Member of Tow411.net and industry thought leader
Wes has also developed curriculum and led training efforts for leading associations across the country including Texas, Virginia, Alabama, Illinois, Colorado, Massachusetts, and more.
📱 Innovation in the Industry
In 2023, ATRI launched the EV Clever Rescue & Recovery App, offering first responders instant access to critical emergency procedures for electric, hybrid, natural gas, and hydrogen vehicles—paving the way for safer, smarter responses in a rapidly evolving vehicle landscape.
🤝 Community & Volunteer Efforts
ATRI proudly supports the towing community and public safety initiatives through sponsorships, outreach, and disaster response:
Platinum sponsor of The Survivor Fund
Organizer of auctions and fundraisers supporting operators and towing families in need
Master of Ceremonies for community fundraisers, awareness walks, and educational events
Historical preservation contributor to the International Towing Museum in Chattanooga, TN
🔗 Industry Connections
We are proud to work alongside some of the most respected names in towing, recovery, rescue, and extrication, including:
Phillip McCorquodale – Phillips Towing, NC
Fred Scheler – Henry’s Wrecker Service/Roadrunner, VA, MD, DC
DJ Harrington – “Tow Doctor” & Podcast Host
Ron Moore – NFPA Vehicle Rescue Specialist
JT Reasor – AA Towing Services, MO
Glen Mikel – G & S Towing, IA
Jeff Ripley – Paddack’s Wrecker Service, IN
Randy Olsen – VP, Miller Industries
George Connolly – International Towing Museum
And many more dedicated professionals
📅 Our History at a Glance
1982–1996: Fieldwork and leadership roles in towing operations and WreckMaster training
1996–2013: Consulting, curriculum development, and hands-on instruction across North America
2013–Present: Launch of ATRI, nationwide certification programs, and digital tools for towing and recovery professionals
💬 Get Involved
Whether you’re an experienced operator or new to the industry, ATRI is here to support your growth. Join us for training, certification, advocacy, and the continued evolution of a safer, stronger towing industry.
👉 Contact us at info@americantowingandrecoveryinstitute.org or call (910) 747-9000 to learn more about becoming a member or scheduling a training session.
