50 Notable Alumni

Peter B. Alexander

Owner, Peter B’s Automotive, Urbana, Illinois

Associate in Applied Science

Automotive Technology

Class of 1979

In 1979, Peter Alexander graduated from Parkland College with an Associate in Applied Science degree in Automotive Technology as well as a certificate in Farm Power and Equipment Service. Several years later, in 1984, he started his own full service automotive business, Peter B’s Automotive in Urbana, IL.

“Steady but unstoppable” is how Peter Alexander describes his success in auto repair. From his first auto mechanics class at Parkland in 1977, to national recognition as the NAPA/ASE Technician of the Year in 1990, he has worked hard to create one of the largest, most respected auto repair shops in east central Illinois.

In addition to his Parkland degrees, Peter is also a master ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) Automotive Technician since 1980, a master ASE Medium/Heavy Truck Technician, has received 66 credits toward accredited Automotive Management Designation, and has factory automotive training by Subaru, Jeep, Renault, and Robert Bosch Corporation along with many aftermarket company certifications.

Peter joined the Parkland College Alumni Association board as a member in 2000. He was Vice President of the board from 2001 to 2002 and President from 2002 to 2004. He continues to volunteer for the Alumni Advisory Committee and serves on the Parkland College automotive advisory board. Peter is also Parkland’s 2016 Distinguished Alumnus Award Recipient.

Peter’s most memorable moment at Parkland was “…taking the Parkland Engine Rebuilding class and at the end of the semester the engine that I put together ran great! What a fantastic experience.”