About the Host:

• Brad Hurlock: Host of the Garage Grit Podcast, with a background in the automotive industry and a passion for sharing knowledge and insights with his audience.

About the Guests:

• Shiju Thomas: An experienced business owner with a deep understanding of training and development in the automotive repair industry. Mr. Thomas is the owner of ⁠Hotchkiss Auto Repair⁠.

• Darin David: Owner of a successful auto repair shop, focused on team training and maximizing the potential of his technicians. Darin is the owner of Joe's Garage.

• Scott Bartlett: A seasoned mechanic and shop owner, dedicated to continuous learning and improving his team's skills. Scott is the owner of Turner Auto Care⁠.

  
  

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the Garage Grit Podcast, host Brad Hurlock guides a discussion on training teams in the auto repair industry. Guests Shiju Thomas, Darin David, and Scott Bartlett share their expertise on the importance of ongoing training, development, and team building in automotive shops. They explore how to enhance skills, utilize resources effectively, and improve overall shop performance.

Key themes include leveraging local educational programs, utilizing online training platforms, fostering a culture of continuous learning, and the significance of on-the-job training. The conversation underscores the holistic approach needed to elevate not just technical skills but also team dynamics and shop culture.

Key Takeaways:

• Investing in training and development is essential to keep up with industry advancements and retain top talent.

• Tailoring training programs to individual technician needs can boost performance and job satisfaction.

• Fostering a culture of continuous learning and accountability leads to a more cohesive and productive team.

• Utilizing online resources and creating a dedicated training space can enhance skill-building opportunities.

• Balancing technical training with soft skills development is key to creating a well-rounded and effective team.

Notable Quotes:

• "Training is not just about fixing cars; it's about nurturing a culture of growth and development within the team." - Shiju Thomas

• "Being humble and open to learning is the foundation for continuous improvement in the automotive industry." - Scott Bartlett

• "Cultivating a team that shares knowledge and supports each other leads to a more efficient and cohesive shop environment." - Darin David

Resources & References:

• ATI - Automotive Training Institute

• NAPA AutoCare Center

• ACDelco Training Resources

• Hotchkiss Auto Repair
• Joe's Garage⁠
• Turner Auto Care

Don't miss out on the valuable insights and strategies discussed in this episode. Tune in to the full podcast to learn more about training your team for success in the auto repair industry!

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Today's Topic

00:58 Meet the Panelists

02:47 Local Training Programs

06:24 Challenges and Strategies in Training

09:58 Compensation and Motivation

17:21 Developing a Training System

27:17 On-the-Job Training and Team Dynamics

39:35 Customer Training and Communication

43:11 The Power of Audio and Video Content

43:29 Understanding Personalities in the Workplace

45:10 Effective Customer Communication

46:12 Training and Development Strategies

47:47 Implementing Software and Digital Tools

57:09 The Importance of On-the-Job Training

59:25 Personal and Professional Development

01:12:08 Final Thoughts and Future Topics