San Bernardino’s Gold Medal Auto Glass Technician: Meet Raul Plascencia

Direct Quality Auto Glass is home to owner-operator Raul Plascencia, the Auto Glass Week 2025 gold medalist in auto glass replacement. Competitors from across the world came to Reno, NV to test their auto glass replacement skills against the best of the best. Using his master technician expertise and years of experience, Raul Plascencia came out on top, winning first place in auto glass replacement! We’ve always taken pride in our quality workmanship, and our award-winning auto glass replacement technician is further proof.

About Our Owner-Operator Raul Plascencia

A glassBYTES article reports that Raul Plascencia comes from a background of persistence and resilience. As an immigrant in the United States during his youth, Raul learned that determination is crucial for success. His father first introduced him to the auto glass industry as a young child, which marked the very first spark of a lifelong journey. Raul has a history of successful competition, placing second in both the 2023 and 2024 Auto Glass Week competitions. This year, he returned with a refined skill set that finally earned him the gold.

What It Takes to Win Gold at Auto Glass Week 2025

The Auto Glass Replacement Olympics take place each year at Auto Glass Week. Competitors are challenged in every aspect of auto glass replacement, from customer interaction and glass removal to proper installation and post-service assessment. Raul Plascencia proved his expertise through every step of the replacement process, just as he does with every vehicle he services back in San Bernardino.

A Continuing Commitment to Auto Glass Safety

The Auto Glass Safety Council is the leading U.S. authority on auto glass safety regulations. The organization promotes continuing education, hands-on experience, and careful installation of auto glass. With a continuing commitment to auto glass safety, Raul Plascencia generously donated his first-place winnings to the Auto Glass Safety Council. Though he does not plan to compete next year, Raul hopes his donation will help other auto glass technicians continue their own commitments to safe auto glass care.

What Award-Winning Auto Glass Replacement Means to You

Raul Plascencia brings his award-winning auto glass replacement skills to Direct Quality Auto Glass in San Bernardino, CA, giving you reliable, professional service close to home.

The Auto Glass Safety Council holds high standards for:

Removal of Damaged Glass

Prevents damage to the vehicle frame and promotes safe removal of damaged auto glass, including proper cleanup and handling of broken glass to avoid damage to the vehicle.

Adhesive Standards & Curing Times

Technicians use approved urethane adhesives that meet shelf-life and temperature requirements. They follow Safe Drive-Away Times for a full cure and use proper bonding techniques for full performance of the auto glass.

Safety Systems

Installers must consider how windshields support the airbag systems and maintain structural integrity. This also includes proper handling of ADAS-equipped vehicles and documentation of recalibration.

Pre- & Post-Installation Inspections

Technicians should identify rust, damage, or frame issues to ensure the vehicle is safe to work on. Auto glass replacements should be inspected to verify correct bonding and alignment and to provide proper care instructions to customers.

Customer Communication

The replacement process should be transparent to the customer. Installation steps should be documented, and customers should be informed about Safe Drive-Away Times, ADAS calibration requirements, and any post-installation safety information.

Documentation & Record-Keeping

Maintaining accurate installation records, including information about materials used, is important for proper auto glass replacement services.

Overall, the Auto Glass Safety Council requires a commitment to technician competency and training, ethical and professional service, and proper auto glass replacement. By winning gold in the Auto Glass Replacement Olympics, Raul Plascencia has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to these standards. This commitment extends to his auto glass shop in San Bernardino, CA. You can contact Direct Quality Auto Glass to schedule an appointment for award-winning auto glass replacement today.