When Sharp created the Platinum Level Service Provider program in 2021, the goal was straightforward: raise the bar for dealer service quality and recognize the organizations willing to clear it. Four years later, BTA member Pacific Office Automation (POA) hasn't just cleared that bar; it has done it every single year the program has existed, and at the highest level possible.

This year, Sharp announced that 101 of its dealer partners achieved an A rating or higher in the 2025 Fiscal Year PLSP program. Of those, only 24 reached the top tier: AAA. POA is one of them — for the fourth consecutive year.

What It Actually Takes

The PLSP program does not award points for longevity or goodwill. It measures four specific and trackable metrics that define the difference between reactive service and genuinely excellent service:

1. We use only genuine Sharp parts and supplies to ensure optimal performance, reliability and longevity of your equipment.
2. Our technicians and support teams receive ongoing manufacturer-certified training to stay ahead of the evolving technology and deliver expert service every time.  
3. Advanced remote diagnostics allow us to proactively identify issues, reduce downtime and resolve many service needs without waiting for an onsite visit.
4. Real-time service call tracking and proactive updates keep you informed every step of the way, so you always know the status of your request.

One Number That Stands Out

POA achieved 100% top-tier training completion this year — a remarkable accomplishment in any context. Sharp sets the benchmark at 81%, a high standard in itself, making full completion by every required technician a deliberate organizational achievement, especially in a year of competing staffing, scheduling and operational demands.

"The 100% training completion is particularly meaningful," said Derek Pangelinan, director of education and curriculum, Pacific Office Automation. "Sharp's benchmark is already demanding, and reaching 100% reflects the team's commitment to being fully prepared to support our customers."

The People Behind the Numbers

Certifications don't earn themselves. Behind this year's AAA rating is a team of people who made it their business to get it done: Joe Baurer, Joe Pesetsky and Brian VonDerAhe, regional service leaders. POA's three regional service leaders are strong partners in overseeing the program's requirements and activities. They work closely with their managers and technicians to ensure expectations are consistently met — and often exceeded.

Barry Watterson-Woods, Program Operations: Watterson-Woods plays a key role in driving the program forward. He closely monitors all performance metrics and regularly communicates progress, concerns and successes to Baurer, Pesetsky and VonDerAhe, ensuring they have clear visibility into what needs attention. By handling a significant portion of the administrative work, he helps reduce friction and enables the team to stay focused on results.

POA's Branch Technology Managers and Technicians

Ultimately, this award belongs to the people in the field — POA's BTMs and technicians, whose commitment to execution made this recognition possible. They are the ones who earned this award.

What Comes Next

Five consecutive years of PLSP recognition — four of them at the AAA level — is something POA takes seriously. It reflects the trust customers and partners place in the company.

Customers should know that the team supporting their Sharp technology operates at the highest documented standard in the dealer network. Their expectations push us to maintain that level of service every day.

That standard doesn't reset at the end of a fiscal year. It carries forward, and so does POA's commitment to the customers who depend on it.