Elite Fly with the Eagles Event, Includes Tour to Jasper Factory Plant, Sept 25, 2023.

Available Subscriptions

See all Subscription Plans

Have you checked out Joe's Latest Blog?

The Technician Shortage Is Our Fault, And It's Time We Own It

By Joe Marconi in Joe's Blog
0 comments
The Technician Shortage Is Our Fault, And It's Time We Own It
Nearly every day, I hear shop owners complain: "There's a technician shortage. We can't find qualified people. There's no one out there." If that's true, then who's to blame?
The industry? The schools? The government? I don't know how you feel, but who promised us an endless supply of qualified technicians?
Another common complaint is that young people do not want to work in the trades. Well, if that were true, then why are other trades such as HVAC, electrical, and plumbing growing? What are they doing that the automotive industry is not?
Here's the reality we need to face: We do have a problem, but we shouldn't look for someone or any entity to rescue us. Not the government. Not the trade schools. Not the recruiting companies. No one owes us a workforce. If we want great people in our industry, it's up to us. At some point, we need to own up to the truth: Building a pipeline of qualified technicians is our responsibility.
In this blog article, I will break down the key reasons we are in this situation today and what we, as an industry, can do to solve the technician shortage. Are you ready to look in the mirror?
Have We Pushed Technicians Away?
Let's take a look at flat-rate pay. True flat rate, which pays a technician only for the hours they produce, is a controversial pay plan that emphasizes high production levels and creates a competitive work environment that, if not properly controlled, can lead to increased mistakes and a decline in morale and team spirit. Additionally, the stress and physical demands placed on technicians as they age are not favorable to long-term employee retention. What do we do with technicians as they grow older into their fifties and begin to slow down?
I have heard all the arguments and pros and cons of flat-rate pay, and I am not going to judge any pay plan. Let the facts speak for themselves. True flat rate has changed in most areas around the country and has evolved into a pay plan that gives technicians some pay guarantee.
Many shop owners have learned that team morale, along with the opportunity to earn income, is important to technicians and to the company's long-term success. But let me ask you: how many technicians have left or been pushed out over the years because of the old flat-rate pay system?
Another issue is the workplace environment. I remember being grateful to be hired as a young technician at a local repair shop. While very thankful, the work environment was not ideal. The shop owner kept the bay doors open year-round (I am from New York) unless it rained or snowed. He felt that if the bay doors were closed, customers might think we were closed for business. We had no heat and no hot water. Many of the jobs were done outside, year-round, in all types of weather. The starting pay was minimum wage, with no benefits, sick days, or vacation pay.
Now, again, I need to point out that I was truly grateful for the opportunity this shop owner gave me. I learned a lot working there, and the experience was pivotal in my career. But looking back, I wonder how many people were discouraged by these working conditions?
While the physical demands of the repair workplace are daunting, perhaps even more critical is the culture. Too many of my generation shop owners preached the mindset of "my way or the highway." We were the business owners, after all. We started our companies, took all the risks, and provided jobs. Why shouldn't we be the ones to set the ground rules our way?
Many of us found over the years that the "my way or the highway" mentality was a sure way to isolate employees and make them more likely to look over the fence for greener grass. In other words, it led many technicians to seek employment elsewhere, where they felt they could be appreciated and recognized for their hard work. The issue, however, was that there wasn't much green grass around. Disappointment after disappointment, bouncing from repair to repair shop, eventually led to despair. So, I ask you: were workplace conditions a contributing factor in today's technician shortage?
Another factor that we are all well aware of is the complexity of the modern automobile. When I started, the work was mostly physical, and you were required to master essentially three vehicle models: General Motors, Ford, and Chrysler. Let's fast-forward to today. The evolution of automotive technology, along with the extensive training and tools required, has outpaced the typical technician's pay compensation, with no clear career path. Again, leading to frustration and insecurity about the future.
Here is the bottom line: people don't leave their job; they leave their experience. We must do a better job.
The News Isn't all Bad; Your Next Steps to Fix the Technician Shortage
To fix the technician shortage, it will take a combined effort from everyone in the automotive industry, particularly automotive shop owners. Shop owners are in the perfect position to make the greatest impact, not only on their businesses but also on the future automotive workforce.
First, shop owners must become better leaders and understand that their ultimate success is directly dependent on the people they assemble around them. Any shop owner who mistakenly believes they can build an empire solely on their abilities is destined for serious disappointment. Business owners who think like this will eventually plateau. Without the collective contributions from a team of qualified people, your business will stall; it will not continue to grow.
Create a workplace that attracts top talent: a clean, professional, well-equipped facility designed to support productivity, teamwork, and a career, not just a job. Build a great reputation in your community by getting involved locally. Become the auto repair shop that people take notice of as "the" place to work.
Next, shop owners must become more financially knowledgeable. Knowing your numbers and what you need to achieve for a strong bottom-line profit is essential to paying technicians the money they need and deserve. Profit will also allow you to compete with other trade industries by providing a benefits package that has real take-home value and security.
When it comes to culture, this is where the rubber hits the road. People crave recognition, praise, and a sense of purpose. Despite what you hear, people are not just money-motivated. Once people feel secure in their financial situation, retaining and motivating technicians can only be achieved by connecting with them on an emotional level. You cannot show enough appreciation. Give out praise for a job well done as if your business depended on it, because it does.
As technicians age, we need to have a place for them. Expecting a 58-year-old to perform like a 35-year-old is unrealistic. We need to be more focused on career pathing. Provide training, skill development, and coaching to develop leaders and mentors within our older workforce. While their bodies may have slowed, the knowledge they have gained is priceless.
Our future is dependent on young people entering our industry. We need to give more young people opportunities. Every shop owner across the country should consider hiring an apprentice, then build an apprentice training plan and career path for them. If every shop did this, we could solve the technician shortage within five years. Get involved with the trade schools and high schools in your area. Look into the NAPA Apprenticeship Program. Don't sit on your hands with this one. Do it today.
Lastly, don't get left behind. Commit to ongoing training for all your employees. Keep up to date with tools and equipment tailored to your business model. Don't try to be all things to all people and all vehicles. Identify your core profile customer and the vehicles they drive, and become an expert on those vehicles and the services you offer.

Similar Topics

How Missed Payroll Deadlines Come Back to Haunt Your Shop
By nptrb

Premium Member Content

This content is hidden to guests, one of the benefits of a paid membership. Please login or register to view this content.
Estimated Tax Payments Due September 15: What Auto Repair Shop Owners Need to Know
By nptrb

Premium Member Content

This content is hidden to guests, one of the benefits of a paid membership. Please login or register to view this content.
Is it just me or is warranty work becoming the absolute worst part of this job?
By immune

Hey everyone,
Sorry if this is a common rant here, but I just opened my own independent shop a few months ago and I'm honestly struggling to get my head around the warranty claims process.
It feels like a full-time job just to get paid for work I've already done. I fix the car, the customer is happy, and then I spend the next week playing telephone between the parts supplier and the OEM, filling out endless forms, and half the time, feeling like they're just looking for a reason to deny the claim. It's incredibly frustrating, and as a new business, I can't afford to just eat these costs.
I have to ask, how are you all managing this? Are there any particular software or systems you use that actually help streamline this, or is everyone just stuck in a mess of paperwork and angry phone calls?
And seriously, what's the single most ridiculous part of the warranty process that drives you crazy?
Just trying to figure out if I'm missing something or if the system is really this broken for everyone. Appreciate any insights.
Preparing for September’s Marketing [E163] - The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled
You know that feeling when summer’s barely over, kids are back in school, and suddenly you’re staring down September, wondering what the heck to post on social media? Yeah, that’s where this episode comes in. Brian is back with Caroline Legrand for their monthly marketing prep session, your go-to podcast for staying ahead with smart, simple ideas that actually matter.
They’re covering everything from prepping your fall events, tying in national awareness months (like National Preparedness Month), and even having some fun with off-the-wall days like “Talk Like a Pirate Day” and “Bald is Beautiful.” But it’s not just fluff, this episode is packed with real ways to build trust, showcase your shop’s personality, and create content that positions your brand as the go-to in your community.
Whether it’s using DVI photos the right way, setting up educational posts, or just being more intentional with your calendar, this episode is all about showing up prepared before your slow season hits.
This episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. Shop Management software that works the way you need it to right out of the box.
Want to revolutionize your marketing? AppFueled does it all email, text, app notifications, and even call center integration. Stop guessing and start connecting with AppFueled.com
Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)
Preparing for August’s Marketing
Days of the Year
National Calendar
Show Notes with Timestamps
Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgement (00:00:10): Brian introduces the episode, guest Caroline, and thanks the sponsor. Sets up the September marketing theme. Overview of September Marketing and Industry Events (00:01:09): Discussion about September being packed with causes and events, and how shops can leverage industry events and conferences. Smoothing Out Workload for the Holidays (00:03:59): Advice on scheduling regular clients during slower holiday months to balance shop workload. Monthly Themes: Save Your Photos & National Preparedness Month (00:05:44): Encouragement to take and use shop photos, and tie in National Preparedness Month with vehicle safety and maintenance. Preparedness Content and Giveaways (00:07:20): Ideas for preparedness videos, EDC (Everyday Carry) for vehicles, and preparedness kit giveaways. Community Sponsorships: Little League & Baby Safety (00:11:23): Promoting shop involvement in Little League sponsorships and baby safety events, including car seat checks. Read a New Book Month (00:13:20): Encouraging team reading and sharing book recommendations as part of shop culture. Weekly Themes: Child Passenger Safety & Compassionate Leadership (00:13:37): Highlighting Child Passenger Safety Week and Compassionate Leadership Week, and their relevance to shop training and culture. Other September Weeks: Fall Foliage, Security Officer, Truck Driver Appreciation (00:15:30): Ideas for pre-trip checks, security officer discounts, and truck driver/fleet customer appreciation. Fun September Days: Beards, Bacon, Labor Day, Pizza, Beer (00:18:09): Creative content ideas for World Beard Day, International Bacon Day, Labor Day, Cheese Pizza Day, and Beer Lovers Day. Boss and Employee Exchange Day (00:19:42): Suggestions for role-swapping or fun team activities to celebrate Boss and Employee Exchange Day. Patriot Day and National Day of Service (00:21:16): Ways to honor September 11th with acts of service and patriotism. Bald is Beautiful & Redhead Day (00:22:12): Fun social media trends involving bald or redheaded team members, tying in tire safety. National Tattoo Story Day & Tradesman Day (00:23:26): Encouraging sharing of tattoo stories and celebrating skilled trades in the shop. Talk Like a Pirate Day (00:24:12): Challenge to answer phones like a pirate and share on social media for engagement. National Tune Up Day & Go With Your Gut Day (00:25:11): Ideas for tune-up promotions and diagnostic guessing games for Go With Your Gut Day. One Hit Wonder Day & Ask a Stupid Question Day (00:26:03): Engagement ideas around favorite one-hit wonders and inviting customer questions. Good Neighbor Day (00:26:43): Shouting out neighboring businesses and community partners. International Podcast Day (00:27:12): Promoting the podcast and sharing favorite podcasts among the team. General September/Fall Topics: Back to School, Football, Fairs (00:27:47): Suggestions for fall maintenance, back-to-school, football season, and local fairs/festivals marketing. Conclusion and Resources (00:30:49): Encouragement to keep posting, check national day calendars, and listen to more episodes.
How To Get In Touch
Join The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on Facebook
Meet The Pros
Follow SMP on Facebook
Follow SMP on Instagram
Get The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing Book
Email Us Podcast Questions or Topics
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled
This episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.
AppFueled at appfueled.com. “Are you ready to convert clients to members? AppFueled™ specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for auto repair businesses. Build your first app like a pro.”
Aftermarket Radio Network
Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion
Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.
The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.
Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.
Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.
The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/
Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/
Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/
Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/
The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/
Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
2025 Benchmark Report Part 3 [E177] - Business By The Numbers
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our partner Promotive
In this final episode of our Benchmark Report series, Hunt Demarest, CPA with Paar Melis and Associates, uncovers what truly separates the top shops from the rest—productivity, profit margins, and owner involvement.
Key takeaways:
Top-performing shops average 55%+ productivity, while bottom-tier shops hover around 41%. That 15-point gap translates to $13,000 more sales per technician and $12,000 more sales per bay monthly. Top shops also average $800 per repair order, compared to $575 for the bottom tier. Their labor gross profit margin is roughly 70% vs. 50% for lower performers. Productivity isn’t just tech speed—it’s team, processes, bay usage, and daily consistency. Download your free 2024 Automotive Industry Benchmark Report: https://info.paarmelis.com/2024-automotive-industry-benchmark-report 2025 Benchmark Report Part 1: Biggest Changes, Key KPI's and Trends [E175]: https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/episode/2025-benchmark-report-biggest-changes-key-kpis-and-trends-e175 2025 Benchmark Report Part 2 [E176]: https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/episode/2025-benchmark-part-2-e176
Thanks to our partner Promotive
It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit www.gopromotive.com.
Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair
Visit us Online: www.paarmelis.com
Email Hunt: [email protected]
Text Paar Melis @ 301-307-5413
Download a Copy of My Books Here:
Wrenches to Write-Offs Your Perfect Shop
The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/
Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto https://remarkableresults.biz/
Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/
Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/
The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/
Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio