On this week’s episode of Grease the Wheels we take the lead from SurfWrench for some end of year statistics about technician satisfaction. One of the things that shocked us was just how many technicians at independent shops find the variety of work as an advantage- whereas Uncle Jimmy sees it as a major disadvantage. Typically franchise dealerships have better equipment and climate controls, and that can be a huge pull factor for technicians. We almost all agree that the manufactures are stiffing us on warranty repairs, because they are. We also get into the trenches of the recruitment debate, with 84% of us thinking that high schools are actively discouraging the trades for their students - when that is exactly what the American economy needs over the next few decades is a renaissance of trade schools and students getting degrees that make the world continue to spin. Also an alarming amount of us are immune to corporate recruitment videos, in favor of unscripted interviews about what working in a particular shop is like. Also almost unanimous- tell us how much a job is going to pay in the job posting! Actually, kinda funny timing NYS just made this a law the day we cut this. 

Also Uncle Jimmy annihilates the concept that the ICE vehicle ban in California is to lead to a loss of employment opportunities for technicians - and California in general! Merry Christmas to all of you wrench twisting bastards keeping the planet moving! 

This episode is distributed by The Wrenching Network. Whether you're a technician, a mechanic, or someone who just loves the car scene, The Wrenching Network is a place that you have to check out. They have all sorts of great content, gear, and snacks to keep you turning wrenches in whatever capacity you do it. Also if you see us over there, make sure you say hi and leave a comment with what you think about the episode!