Business Details
46 Years
experience
Professional Towing & Recovery Advocacy in New York
Founded in 1980, the Empire State Towing & Recovery Association (ESTRA) has dedicated over four decades to advancing professionalism and safety within the towing and recovery industry. Our organization was established with three core objectives: education, legislative advocacy, and fostering a network of industry professionals. Through these pillars, we provide members with critical resources, including legal support, technical training, and advocacy at state and national levels. Our annual Tow Show and educational seminars create opportunities for professional development and industry collaboration. The Hook, our award-winning newsletter, keeps members informed on legislative updates and industry trends.ESTRA also administers a scholarship program to support the education of members' families and employees. With a focus on unity and community, we maintain strong relationships between members, emergency responders, and government agencies. Our political action fund, TOW-PAC, amplifies our influence on policy decisions affecting the towing industry. As a charter member of the Conference of Northeastern Towing Associations, we leverage regional partnerships to strengthen our collective impact. Today, ESTRA continues to promote ethical standards and operational excellence across New York State.
Services
Towing & Recovery
Legislative Advocacy
Educational Seminars
Legal Support
Annual Tow Show
Scholarship Programs
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of experience advocating for towing professionals.
- Our legislative advocacy team works at state, local, and national levels.
- We provide exclusive access to industry-specific educational seminars and workshops.
- Our members receive legal assistance and insurance rate negotiations.
- We host the premier annual Tow Show for industry networking and training.
Services
Towing & Recovery
ESTRA represents towing and recovery operators across New York State, providing industry standards and best practices for vehicle removal services. Our members receive specialized training in safe recovery techniques and equipment operation. We advocate for fair regulations and competitive insurance rates for towing professionals.
Legislative Advocacy
Our dedicated lobbyist works at multiple government levels to shape towing industry regulations and resolve legislative challenges. Through TOW-PAC and regional partnerships, we amplify members' voices in policy decisions affecting daily operations and business practices.
Educational Seminars
We offer technical workshops, safety certifications, and professional development programs for towing operators. Members access fee rebates for training courses and specialized classes like EV handling and cargo tank awareness. Our annual Tow Show combines education with networking opportunities.
Legal Support
ESTRA provides legal assistance to members facing industry-specific challenges and regulatory issues. Our resources help operators navigate complex towing laws and maintain compliance with state and federal requirements.
Annual Tow Show
Held annually in Lake George since 1984, our Tow Show combines political advocacy, technical training, and networking for towing professionals. The event features equipment demonstrations, safety workshops, and the presentation of industry awards and scholarships.
People
Bob Gorman
President
With decades of industry experience, Bob Gorman leads ESTRA's strategic initiatives from his Poughkeepsie-based garage. He advocates for modernized towing regulations and member business development.
John Beauman Jr.
First Vice President
John Beauman brings generational towing expertise to ESTRA's leadership, representing Lockport-area operations. He focuses on expanding member benefits and technical training programs.
Scott Perlow
Secretary
Scott Perlow manages administrative operations for ESTRA while running Rapid Recovery Towing in Hampton Bays. He emphasizes digital communication improvements and member engagement.
Joseph Robles
Treasurer
Joseph Robles oversees ESTRA's financial stewardship while operating Knights Collision Experts in Brooklyn. He prioritizes cost-effective member services and insurance negotiations.
Nick Morelle
Lobbyist
As ESTRA's government relations specialist, Nick Morelle advocates for towing industry interests at the New York State Capitol. He has secured legislative reforms benefiting members statewide.
Questions
What is ESTRA's primary mission?
ESTRA promotes towing industry professionalism through education, legislative advocacy, and member networking across New York State.
How can I join ESTRA?
Apply through our website for Regular Membership (towing operators) or Associate Membership (industry vendors) categories.
What training resources do you offer?
We provide safety certifications, equipment operation courses, and specialized classes like EV handling and cargo tank awareness.
Do you offer legal assistance?
Yes, members receive support navigating regulatory compliance and resolving industry-specific legal challenges.
Where is your annual Tow Show held?
The event takes place annually in Lake George, NY, featuring training sessions, equipment demonstrations, and networking opportunities.
What educational benefits exist for members?
We offer fee rebates for training programs, scholarship opportunities for members' families, and regular industry updates through 'The Hook' newsletter.
