From valet to Dealership Academy Instructor at the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA), Jim O'Donnell joins us to discuss financial management in a dealership. He highlights how 40-60% of gross profit comes from the fixed ops department, but it rarely gets the attention it deserves. Jim emphasizes the importance of focusing on fixed ops and
Mike Wiant, Regional Sales Representative at Shelby American, is a catalyst in the auto industry, driven by a passion for inspiring students and engaging with local schools. From initiating exciting events like, "Drive a Shelby to School Day" and “AutoBlast,” Mike is dedicated to getting students excited about careers in the auto profession. His efforts
As an ASE Master Automotive Technician, Robert Solei's positive attitude and happiness are contagious both in the shop and throughout this episode. He walks us through his career, highlighting his early years as an automotive technician, discussing a life-changing event that shaped his outlook today, and sharing his honest opinion on the flat rate pay
Bruce Spencer, Owner of Walt Eger’s Service Center, shares his journey from corporate life to shop ownership. He emphasizes the importance of hiring a COO, living by the shop's values, fostering friendly competition among technicians, and maintaining the right level of profit transparency with his team. Watch the Full Episode <span; Show Notes About Our
Derek Thompson, an ASE World Class Toyota Technician at Walser Toyota, walks us through how Walser has prioritized their technicians, the expansion of their new shop, and how Derek has maintained his most important tool—his body—throughout his years as a technician. Watch the Full Episode <span; Show Notes About Our Guest Derek Thompson ASE World
Ryan Mack, Group Project Manager, walks us through 100 years of Milwaukee Tool—from the fresh beginnings in Wisconsin, to cordless tools getting the attention of technicians, to the massive brand loyalty Milwaukee Tool has built today. Ryan gives an inside look at the multinational company. Watch the Full Episode <span; Show Notes About Our Guest
Dara Goroff, Vice President of Planning & Industry Talent Programming at I-CAR, discusses findings from their recent collision technician survey and efforts to promote collision careers. Key takeaways include the importance of gathering anonymous staff feedback, listening to their needs, and being prepared to make changes based on their input. Watch the Full Episode <span;
Dave Johnson, President & CEO of the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) dives into all things ASE-related. Dave shares his personal journey, industry insights, and the critical challenges faced by automotive professionals today. Watch the Full Episode <span; Show Notes About Our Guest Dave Johnson President & CEO, National Institute for Automotive Service
Anders Gustafson, Co-Founder of ShopLevers and former shop owner, breaks down technician compensation. He shares lessons learned from starting a new shop, including the importance of incentive plans, offering benefits like health insurance, and evaluating pay plans correctly. Watch the Full Episode <span; Show Notes About Our Guest Anders Gustafson Co-Founder, ShopLevers Follow Anders on
Danny Corwin from Harbor Freight Tools for Schools and Jay Abitz from Freedom High School discuss why shops, dealerships, manufacturers, and other businesses need to support skilled trades programs. They also dive into the struggles schools are facing, from budget cuts to a lack of administrative support. Watch the Full Episode <span; Show Notes About
