Beyond the Wrench
Jay Goninen
Updated 3 days agoHow can automotive and diesel shops run a better business and be more profitable? How can we make the aftermarket and dealerships more attractive to younger generations? Each week, Jay Goninen, Co-Founder & President of WrenchWay, will sit down with shop owners, technicians, instructors, and professionals in the automotive and diesel industries to have them share their stories and insights. We’ll dive deep into what’s going on in shops and dealerships and what we can do to help drive the industry forward.The Beyond the Wrench Podcast is powered by WrenchWay.
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Episodes (319)
Josh Simons, Instructor at Greenville Technical College
We explore Josh’s career in automotive, discuss his decision to become an instructor, and he shares key advice for young technicians on how to find good managers and mentors.Our team is taking a couple of weeks off the podcast for the holidays. We would like to thank you for all of your support, wish you Happy Holidays, and we will see you in 2024!(3:00) Josh’s Career in Auto(12:51) Diverse Background for Teaching(18:13) Mentors for New Technicians(35:27) Understand Flat Rate(42:06) Good Manager Qualities(47:13) Becoming an InstructorAbout Our Guest:Josh SimonsASE Master Technician & Instructor/Academic Program Director, Greenville Technical CollegeConnect on LinkedInSponsor: Sonic ToolsAbout Our Host:Jay GoninenCo-Founder & President, [email protected] | 608.716.2122WrenchWay Resources:Technicians & Students - Looking for the best shops to work at? Check out wrenchway.com/shopsShops & Dealerships - Want to find quality technicians and support the industry? Learn about WrenchWay Shop Memberships.Instructors - Need help getting resources and connecting with industry? We have free resources for your program. Connect with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
2023 Voice of Technician Survey Results
Enjoy this previously recorded webinar where WrenchWay Co-Founders, Jay Goninen and Mark Wilson, discussed the findings from WrenchWay’s 2023 Voice of Technician Survey. With over 650 responses from technicians, students, and other industry professionals, the survey uncovered feedback on job satisfaction levels, what individuals look for in an employer, and ways the industry can improve. Links to the full report and webinar are in the show notes.(8:19) What Technicians Want(18:58) Preferred Pay Structures(30:19) Technician Work Schedules(37:54) Satisfaction Levels with Employer(57:39) Key Takeaways & QuestionsResources:2023 Voice of Technician Survey SummaryWebinar & Presentation On-DemandDownload the free WrenchWay mobile app:App StoreGoogle PlayAbout Our Host:Jay GoninenCo-Founder & President, [email protected] | 608.716.2122About Our Guest:Mark WilsonCo-Founder & CEO, [email protected] with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
Strategies for Small Business Empowerment
Don’t miss Lisa McClease-Kelly’s unique advice for small businesses in this week’s episode of Beyond the Wrench. As Co-Owner of Network In Action Oregon and Kelly's Automotive, and with a background in nonprofits, Lisa offers a different perspective on ways shops can serve their community and staff. She also offers some other business advice on how shops can relay their values to their employees, tips on handling bad hires, and so much more! (5:45) Supporting Nonprofits(16:35) Small Business Coaching(22:23) Identifying & Communicating Values as Owners(25:48) Angel Fund(51:16) Handling Bad Hires(01:00:03) Communication AdviceResources:Download the free WrenchWay mobile app:App StoreGoogle PlayAbout Our Host:Jay GoninenCo-Founder & President, [email protected] | 608.716.2122About Our Guest:Lisa McClease-KellyCo-Owner of Network In Action Oregon and Kelly's AutomotiveConnect on LinkedInSponsor:OK. Your customer’s engine or transmission has failed. But now is not the time for them to trade their vehicle – not without a working engine or transmission. Besides, would they have kept their vehicle another 3-5 years if their engine or transmission had not let them down?If you answered “yes” then Jasper Engines and Transmissions is your choice to give your customer’s vehicle new life and many thousands of miles of enjoyable driving performance.When considering the high cost of a new or newer used vehicle, there’s a pretty good case to be made for replacing a drive train component that has failed or is delivering poor performance – rather than trading their car, truck, van or SUV. Install a quality re-manufactured JASPER product for less than your customer would have to invest in a new vehicle or a newer used vehicle.Check out their website at jasperengines.com to learn more about the money-saving value of JASPER.Connect with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
Tool & Career Advice for Young Technicians
We are proud to welcome Daniel Diaz, Service Technician at Braman BMW Miami (and rising TikTok star)! In this episode, Daniel offers advice to young technicians on purchasing tools, encourages all technicians to keep learning, and emphasizes the importance of finding the right shop management and support as a new technician.(1:27) Tool Organization for Efficiency(12:51) Keeping Up with Technology & EV(30:45) Having the Right Shop Support(34:32) Shopping Smart for Tools(43:50) Always Keep LearningResources:Sign up for Free for WrenchWay - Online Community for Automotive & Diesel ProfessionalsDownload the free WrenchWay mobile app:App StoreGoogle PlayAbout Our Host:Jay GoninenCo-Founder & President, [email protected] | 608.716.2122About Our Guest:Daniel DiazService Technician, Braman BMW MiamiFollow on TikTokSponsor:Universal Technical Institute: a place that provides opportunity for passion to become purpose. For training to lead toward a career. For over 55 years, UTI’s family of schools has helped students pursue their passion in exciting fields like transportation, skilled trades and energy. There’s a reason why students choose us and top brands hire our graduates. Reputation and commitment. Our relationships with some of the world’s most recognizable brands allow students to gain specific knowledge.As a student, you’ll train how the industry does. Learning from instructors with real world-experience and training hands-on with industry tools and equipment in the lab. We’re committed to your success – that’s why we’re making $15 million in scholarships and grants available this year alone to those who qualify.It’s time to invest in you. Get started today at uti.edu!Disclaimer: UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary. Financial aid, scholarships and grants are available to those who qualify. Awards vary due to specific conditions, criteria and state.Connect with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
Guide to Online Car Auctions: Operating, Buying, & Selling
Bob Gaito, Chief Executive Officer at Auction Central and Principal at Exit5 Auto Group, shares his unique auction and dealership experience in this week’s episode. Bob dives into how online auctions operate and the role of auctions in the automotive industry. He also discusses the different career options available for technicians in the auction world, and provides advice for shops looking to buy and sell inventory.(9:51) Layout of an Online Auction (26:02) Auction Technician Career Opportunities (31:05) Keeping Buyers & Sellers Honest(38:32) Challenges of Running an Auction(50:28) Advice for Buyers & Sellers(55:14) Future of Auction BusinessResources:WrenchWay Shop Memberships - A Better Way to Hire Automotive & Diesel TechniciansDownload the free WrenchWay mobile app:App StoreGoogle PlayAbout Our Host:Jay GoninenCo-Founder & President, [email protected] | 608.716.2122About Our Guest:Bob GaitoChief Executive Officer, Auction Central & Principal, Exit5 Auto [email protected]:OK. Your customer’s engine or transmission has failed. But now is not the time for them to trade their vehicle – not without a working engine or transmission. Besides, would they have kept their vehicle another 3-5 years if their engine or transmission had not let them down? If you answered “yes” then Jasper Engines and Transmissions is your choice to give your customer’s vehicle new life and many thousands of miles of enjoyable driving performance. When considering the high cost of a new or newer used vehicle, there’s a pretty good case to be made for replacing a drive train component that has failed or is delivering poor performance – rather than trading their car, truck, van or SUV. Install a quality re-manufactured JASPER product for less than your customer would have to invest in a new vehicle or a newer used vehicle. Check out their website at jasperengines.com to learn more about the money-saving value of JASPER.Connect with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
Driving Positive Change in Automotive
Pride in your work and pride in the industry! In this week’s episode, Josh Arnold, Master Technician at Toyota & Subaru of Corvallis, radiates his contagious passion and positive attitude toward the automotive industry. Get an inside look at how to maintain a positive mindset in a challenging industry, the importance of having patience as a young technician, and the power of having a great mentor.(3:26) Negativity on Social Media(11:35) Subaru Technician Competition(31:12) Young Technicians’ Impatience(36:15) Mentoring & Power of a Mentor(49:37) Flat Rate for Green TechniciansResources:WrenchWay's $1,000 Monthly GiveawayWrenchWay Reverse Job PostsDownload the free WrenchWay mobile app:App StoreGoogle PlayAbout Our Host:Jay GoninenCo-Founder & President, [email protected] | 608.716.2122About Our Guest: Josh ArnoldMaster Technician, Subaru & Toyota of CorvallisPast Beyond the Wrench EpisodeConnect with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
Bonus Episode: Attracting Military Veterans to Your Shop
Veterans who have experience as military technicians offer a unique skill set that can bring significant value to shops and dealerships. In this bonus episode, we cover ways shops can recruit and retain veterans, how to evaluate appropriate pay and skill levels of techs, and offer tips for better communication with veteran techs.(5:15) Why Recruit Veterans?(11:02) Assisting with Tools(26:32) Communicating with Vets(37:34) Ways to Reach & Recruit Veterans(50:31) Financial Status Post-ServiceResources:Refer Schools to WrenchWay to Help Us Reach 1,000 SchoolsWrenchWay's Free Solutions for Technicians, Students, and Auto/Diesel ProfessionalsDownload the free WrenchWay mobile app:App StoreGoogle PlayAbout Our Host:Jay GoninenCo-Founder & President, [email protected] | 608.716.2122About Our Guests:Scott JenkinsRegional Fixed Operations Director, Asbury Automotive [email protected] GutierrezDirector of Fixed Operations, Biggers Auto [email protected] ToussaintDivision Operations Manager, Worldwide Equipment Enterprises, [email protected] with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
All About Culture
Culture is a big buzzword, but what does it actually mean? Dan Bredeson, Founder of Lead Front Consulting LLC and Author of the Amazon Bestseller "Seeds of Culture,” defines culture simply as, “how we do things.” In this episode, Dan breaks down all things culture, explains its historical significance, stresses the importance of building your credibility bank as a new leader, and so much more!(3:39) Dan’s Background(20:46) Summarizing Culture(27:40) New Leadership for a Failing Team(34:56) Creating a Psychologically Safe Environment(42:13) Building Credibility as a Leader(48:58) Climate of CultureAbout Our Host:Jay GoninenCo-Founder & President, [email protected] | 608.716.2122About Our Guest:Dan BredesonFounder, Lead Front Consulting LLC & Author, "Seeds of Culture"[email protected] Resources:For Technicians & StudentsCompare & Explore Technician Pay: View salary information for automotive, diesel, and collision technicians near you at wrenchway.com/pay.Find Your Ideal Shop or Dealership: Looking for the best places to work? Discover and research the best shop or dealership for you at wrenchway.com/shops.For Shops & DealershipsHire Top Talent & Assist Schools: Connect with skilled technicians, engage with schools, and help elevate the auto and diesel industry with WrenchWay Top Shop Memberships. For Auto, Diesel, & CTE Instructors:Support Your Program & Connect with Industry: Get resources and equipment for your program and grow your industry partnerships with WrenchWay's free solutions for schools.Connect with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
Financial Transparency and Education in the Shop
Shops need to be more transparent with their technicians about their financial standing, and technicians need better education on financial management and beyond. In this episode, Matt Fanslow, a Diagnostic Technician and Shop Manager at Riverside Automotive, delves into financial transparency and education, explains how positive technicians are the best salespersons for our industry, and offers guidance to technicians looking to discuss challenging topics with their managers.(2:40) Advocating for Technician Careers(21:40) Financial Transparency with Technicians(41:16) Financial Education for Technicians(49:48) Navigating Challenging Conversations with ManagementResources:WrenchWay's Solutions for Technicians, Students, & Auto/Diesel ProfessionalsEnter to Win $1,000 in WrenchWay's Monthly GiveawayDownload the free WrenchWay mobile app:App StoreGoogle PlayAbout Our Host:Jay GoninenCo-Founder & President, [email protected] | 608.716.2122About Our Guest:Matt FanslowDiagnostic Technician and Shop Manager, Riverside AutomotiveConnect on LinkedInConnect with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
The Art of Great Shop Culture
Arvin Merino, the Service Director of Toyota of Seattle and Honda of Seattle, joins us to discuss the remarkable shop culture within their shops. Arvin explains how listening to shop staff, fostering relationships outside of the shop, and placing a stronger emphasis on staffing and selecting individuals with the right personalities have contributed to the overall growth of their shop culture.(4:29) Arvin’s Journey in Automotive(12:37) Listening & Communicating with the Team(28:09) Building Relationships Outside of the Dealership(37:16) Managing Different Shop Personalities(52:53) Flexible Scheduling for TechsResources:Register for TechMission National Happening November 8th, 2023WrenchWay Local ChaptersDownload the free WrenchWay mobile app:App StoreGoogle PlayAbout Our Host:Jay GoninenCo-Founder & President, [email protected] | 608.716.2122About Our Guest:Arvin MerinoService Director, Toyota of Seattle and Honda of [email protected] with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
Shaping a Better and Brighter Auto Industry
Tara Topel joins us to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Topel's Service Center, Inc.! As a Co-Owner of an independent shop and towing center, Tara brings a unique perspective to the table. During the episode, she covers ways in which shops can support schools, emphasizes the importance of encouraging youth to join the trade, and stresses the significance of taking care of your technicians—paving a brighter future for the automotive industry.(1:59) About Topel’s Service Center(16:17) Supporting the Community(27:45) Hiring Youth in the Shop(33:30) Servant Leadership(42:18) Communicating with Techs(48:07) Promoting Technician CareersResources:WrenchWay Shop Membership: A Better Way to Hire Automotive & Diesel TechniciansWrenchWay's $1,000 Monthly GiveawayDownload the free WrenchWay mobile app:App StoreGoogle PlayAbout Our Host:Jay GoninenCo-Founder & President, [email protected] | 608.716.2122About Our Guest:Tara TopelCo-Owner, Topel's Service Center, [email protected] with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
Career Paths & Expectations for Young Diesel Techs
This week, we welcome Tom Wozniak, Diesel Technology Instructor at Madison College, and two of his current students, Jacob Breunig and Max Richard. Together, they discuss the importance of having confidence and patience as young technicians, express concerns regarding the future of diesel, and emphasize the need for shops to establish career paths to retain technicians.(1:26) Guest Backgrounds(15:09) Applying School Lessons in the Shop(26:04) Patience & Confidence as Young Techs(39:46) The Future of the Diesel Industry(42:54) Setting a Career Path for Technicians(53:40) Skill Expectations for New TechsResources:Register for TechMission National - November 8th, 2023 WrenchWay's Free Solutions for Technicians, Students, and Industry ProfessionalsDownload the free WrenchWay mobile app:App StoreGoogle PlayAbout Our Host:Jay GoninenCo-Founder & President, [email protected] | 608.716.2122About Our Guests:Tom WozniakDiesel Technology Instructor, Madison [email protected] BreunigDiesel Student, Madison [email protected] RichardDiesel Student, Madison [email protected] with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
The Art of Teaching & Nurturing Technician Talent
Brandon Steckler, Technical Editor at Motor Age Magazine, takes us on a unique voyage through his automotive career. Moving from a technician role to becoming an instructor and eventually an author has provided Brandon with valuable industry insights. In this episode, he covers how to enhance our technician certification system, ways to gain a deeper understanding of younger technicians, and discusses the significant shortage of educators.(4:48) Teaching in the U.K.(15:22) U.S. Certifications vs. U.K. Certifications(37:24) Correcting the Instructor Shortage(48:39) Patience With Young TechniciansResources:WrenchWay's Free Solutions for High Schools & Post-Secondary ProgramsDownload the free WrenchWay mobile app:App StoreGoogle PlayAbout Our Host:Jay GoninenCo-Founder & President, [email protected] | 608.716.2122About Our Guest:Brandon StecklerTechnical Editor, Motor Age [email protected]:Since 2015, Fullbay has made life easier for pretty much everyone who works in commercial diesel repair shops. Techs are more efficient and productive, parts managers can keep an eye on inventory, and owners can see exactly what’s going on in the shop at any given time—from just about anywhere. What does all that mean? Well, Fullbay’s improved workflow leads to more vehicles being worked on—which means more revenue for your shop. And that revenue is easier than ever to collect; you can send estimates with the click of a button.Shop customers also tend to be big fans of Fullbay—and not just because features like Fullbay Payments and Fleet Payments make it easy for them to settle up. They can authorize work, receive text message updates as work proceeds, and reach out to the shop with questions through their own portal.Want to learn more about Fullbay? Head to Fullbay.com/wrenchway!Connect with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
Putting Your Technicians First
Allen Turner, Owner of Allen Turner Automotive Group, believes the most important people in his dealerships are his technicians. In this episode, we explore how Allen’s passion for automotive began, what a good shop culture looks like, and how he has grown his own roster of technicians.(1:06) Allen’s Passion for Automotive(10:49) Prioritizing Technicians(24:48) Good Shop Culture(40:41) Growing Your Own(54:22) Technician MentorshipResources:WrenchWay Local ChaptersWrenchWay Shop MembershipsDownload the free WrenchWay mobile app:App StoreGoogle PlayAbout Our Host:Jay GoninenCo-Founder & President, [email protected] | 608.716.2122About Our Guest:Allen TurnerOwner, Allen Turner Automotive [email protected] with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
Growing a High School Auto Program
Tracey Hicks, Automotive Instructor at Frederick County Public Schools, gives us an inside look at what it’s like to build a high school auto program while gaining industry relationships. Tracey discusses the benefits of working with past graduates, the impact of industry support on his program, and the need to introduce trades to kids at a young age.(2:38) Tracey’s Teaching Journey(14:12) Benefits of Being Involved with Alumni(20:47) Positive Influence of Industry Support(30:08) Running Effective Advisory Committee Meetings(41:08) Introducing Industry at a Young AgeResources:WrenchWay's Free Solutions for SchoolsWrenchWay's $1,000 Monthly GiveawayDownload the free WrenchWay mobile app:App StoreGoogle PlayAbout Our Host:Jay GoninenCo-Founder & President, [email protected] | 608.716.2122About Our Guest:Tracey HicksAutomotive Instructor, Frederick County Public [email protected] with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
Building Better Technician Relationships
David Mortlock, the Fixed Ops Director at Sheppard Auto Group, understands the importance of building relationships with his technicians. In this episode, David covers how to manage your P&L statement while growing and keeping techs happy, the importance of getting to know your techs and their goals, and the need to prioritize the technician and service advisor relationship.(16:55) Treating Technicians Right(20:59) Developing Technician Career Paths(33:42) Managing P&L While Growing Techs(41:49) Better Explaining Pay Structures(50:09) Technician and Service Advisor RelationshipResources:Register for a TechMission Local EventWrenchWay Reverse Job PostsDownload the free WrenchWay mobile app:App StoreGoogle PlayAbout Our Host:Jay GoninenCo-Founder & President, [email protected] | 608.716.2122About Our Guest:David MortlockFixed Ops Director, Sheppard Auto [email protected] with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
A Young Woman's Automotive Journey
Small but mighty, Madison Andrews, a technician at Group 1 Automotive, doesn't let her gender, size, or age stop her from excelling as a strong technician in the shop. In this episode, Madison discusses her automotive career, the impact good mentors can have on technicians, and what it's like being a female in the industry.(1:22) Madison’s Journey in Automotive(11:44) Joining Toyota’s T-TEN Program(28:50) Building Trust as a Young Tech(38:15) Having & Creating Positive Mentor Relationships(52:31) Importance of a Defined Career PathResources:Register for a TechMission Local EventWrenchWay's Free Solutions for Technicians & StudentsDownload the free WrenchWay mobile app:App StoreGoogle PlayAbout Our Host:Jay GoninenCo-Founder & President, [email protected] | 608.716.2122About Our Guest:Madison AndrewsToyota Technician, Group 1 AutomotiveConnect on LinkedInConnect with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
Bonus Episode: Best Practices for Working with Schools
Shops know the importance of working with local schools, and schools need support from industry—yet there is a disconnect. During this bonus episode, we dive into how shops can better grow their relationships with schools, the benefits of working with schools early on, and the importance of setting the right expectations for young technicians.(5:58) How Industry Currently Supports Schools(10:44) Positive Impact of Working with Schools(21:45) #1 Tip for Shops: Show Up(32:43) Setting a Career Path for Young Techs(40:14) Choosing the Right Techs as Mentors(43:34) Communication Between Shops & SchoolsResources:Register to Attend WrenchWay's TechMission Local EventsWrenchWay's Free Solutions for SchoolsDownload the free WrenchWay mobile app:App StoreGoogle PlayAbout Our Host:Jay GoninenCo-Founder & President, [email protected] | 608.716.2122About Our Guests:Lindsey TrettDirector of Talent Acquisition, Walser Automotive [email protected] WalkerAutomotive Department Chair & Professor of Automotive Technology, Oklahoma City Community [email protected] TopelOwner, Topel’s Service [email protected] GoldingAutomotive Instructor, [email protected] with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
Mergers & Acquisitions Process for Shops
The popularity of merging and selling shops has really grown within the last decade. It can be a scary process for shop owners and their employees, but that is where Cole Strandberg, Principal at FOCUS Investment Banking, and his team come in. Tune into this episode to learn how to attract buyers to your shop and get educated on the merger and acquisition process. (7:20) The M&A Process(14:26) Guiding Staff During Shop Sale(19:43) How to Attract Buyers(32:25) KPIs to Focus On(39:24) Importance of Proper CommunicationResources:Register for TechMission Local EventsJoin a WrenchWay Local ChapterDownload the free WrenchWay mobile app:App StoreGoogle PlayAbout Our Host:Jay GoninenCo-Founder & President, [email protected] | 608.716.2122About Our Guest:Cole StrandbergPrincipal, FOCUS Investment [email protected] with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
Tips for Young Technicians
Adam Bryant, Shop Foreman of Enxing Kia, makes his second appearance on Beyond the Wrench this week! In this episode, Adam provides simple shop tasks young technicians can do to help make a positive impression. He also discusses why it is important to have confidence as a young tech and shop benefits to look for when seeking employment.(16:04) Simple Tasks to Increase Shop Efficiency(24:19) Be Patient & Confident(38:21) Shops Investing in Their People(42:15) Pressure & Expectations of Young Techs(53:39) Be Aware of Tool DebtResources:Submit Your Nominations for WrenchWay AwardsWrenchWay's $1,000 Monthly GiveawayDownload the free WrenchWay mobile app:App StoreGoogle PlayAbout Our Host:Jay GoninenCo-Founder & President, [email protected] | 608.716.2122About Our Guest:Adam BryantShop Foreman, Enxing KiaConnect on LinkedInConnect with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
Combatting the Technician Shortage
Stephanie Stanke, Owner of Wooster's Garage, brings a fresh perspective in this week’s episode on how our industry can address one of its most significant shortcomings—the technician shortage. Stephanie discusses the importance of collaborating with local youth and schools, how she has built alliances with her competitors, and ways the industry can attract more female technicians.(2:07) Stephanie’s Automotive Career(12:56) Getting Involved with Local Schools(29:27) Industry Losing Its Best People(33:52) Working with Other Shops(45:12) Changing the Industry’s Perception(56:47) Attracting More Female TechniciansResources:WrenchWay TechMission Local EventsWrenchWay Shop MembershipsDownload the free WrenchWay mobile app:App StoreGoogle PlayAbout Our Host:Jay GoninenCo-Founder & President, [email protected] | 608.716.2122About Our Guest:Stephanie Stanke Owner, Wooster's [email protected] with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
Building Trust & Loyalty with Technicians
As a shop manager or owner, it is crucial to establish effective communication and build relationships with your technicians. As a Commercial Supervisor of James Matthews Ford, Jon Boyd understands this task better than most. During this episode, Jon shares how he manages his diverse team and discusses ways shops can improve their technicians’ lives.(1:46) Jon’s Career(12:22) Getting Honest Feedback from Employees(29:52) Responsibility of Communication(37:09) Becoming a Trusted Leader(41:46) Ways to Improve Techs’ LivesResources:Submit Your Nominations for WrenchWay AwardsWrenchWay Reverse Job PostsDownload the free WrenchWay mobile app:App StoreGoogle PlayAbout Our Host:Jay GoninenCo-Founder & President, [email protected] | 608.716.2122About Our Guest:Jon BoydCommercial Supervisor, James Matthews FordConnect on LinkedInConnect with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
Bonus Episode: Flat Rate’s Contribution to the Technician Shortage
In this bonus episode, we replay a recent WrenchWay roundtable discussion about flat rate. Our panelists Russel Wickham from Country II and Jon Boyd from James Matthews Ford, LLC. engage in conversation about their opinions on flat rate and how it’s impacting the industry. They also give advice on how to improve the flat rate system along with more insight on how flat rate impacts technicians.(7:11) Experiences with Flat Rate(13:08) What Does Flat Rate Mean?(22:04) The “Why” Behind Flat Rate(31:04) Flat Rate’s Impact on Technicians(39:50) How to Improve the Current Flat Rate System(50:45) How to Openly Talk About Flat RateResources:WrenchWay TechMission Local EventsWrenchWay Solutions for Technicians & Industry Professionals Download the free WrenchWay mobile app:App StoreGoogle PlayAbout Our Host:Jay GoninenCo-Founder & President, [email protected] | 608.716.2122About Our Guests:Russel Wickham Technician, County IIFollow Russel on LinkedIn Jon BoydCommercial Supervisor, James Matthews Ford, LLC. Follow Jon on LinkedInConnect with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
Teaching the Autism Community Skilled Trades
Danny Combs, Founder of Teaching the Autism Community Trades (TACT) and father of an autistic child, explains the common misunderstandings of autism and how his team is teaching autistic kids technical skills so they can have a career in skilled trades. Danny’s passion that he has for his students, the autism community, and skilled trades is truly unmatched. You don’t want to miss this episode and all the great things TACT is accomplishing!“Anybody that wants to come here and learn has that opportunity.” - Danny Combs, Founder of Teaching the Autism Community Trades (TACT)(5:00) About Autism(11:48) Common Misunderstandings of Autism (27:48) Building and Growing TACT(36:11) Training, Curriculum, & Safety(51:08) Communicating with Autistic Employees Resources:WrenchWay TechMission Local EventsWrenchWay Free Solutions for SchoolsDownload the free WrenchWay mobile app:App StoreGoogle PlayAbout Our Host:Jay GoninenCo-Founder & President, [email protected] | 608.716.2122About Our Guest:Danny CombsFounder, Teaching the Autism Community Trades (TACT)[email protected] with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
Anniversary Special: An Inside Look at the Good, Bad, & Ugly at WrenchWay
In this episode, Jay Goninen is joined by Mark Wilson, Co-Founder & CEO, and Sara Kerwin, Director of Marketing at WrenchWay, to discuss the unfiltered truth about WrenchWay’s three-year journey in the automotive & diesel industry. The team discusses lessons they’ve learned, changes they’d like to see in the industry, and some hard truths that shops and dealers need to hear. Plus, they give some shoutouts to some industry all-stars. (5:48) WrenchWay’s Special Limited Time Pricing(26:23) Biggest Industry Frustration(37:30) How WrenchWay Has Made a Difference(41:49) Industry All-Star Shoutouts(48:56) Future of Technician Recruiting(55:53) Projection of the Industry & WrenchWayResources:TechMission Local EventsWrenchWay Shop MembershipDownload the free WrenchWay mobile app:App StoreGoogle PlayAbout Our Host:Jay GoninenCo-Founder & President, [email protected] | 608.716.2122About Our Guests:Mark WilsonCEO & President, [email protected] KerwinDirector of Marketing, [email protected] with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok