AMI Accepting Applications for $1,000 BodyShop Business Magazine Scholarship

ASO Admin · 2007-11-01T16:23:40+0000

The Automotive Management Institute (AMI) is accepting applications for the annual $1,000 Tom B. Babcox Memorial Scholarship. AMI's resource development effort, EXCEL, in conjunction with Babcox Publications, established the scholarship, which is awarded to an Automotive Service Association (ASA) Mechanical Division member who strives to be, or is presently working, in a management capacity. View the full article

Available Subscriptions

See all Subscription Plans

Have you checked out Joe's Latest Blog?

The Toolbox is Last to Leave, First is the Heart

By Joe Marconi in Joe's Blog
0 comments
It always amazes me when I hear about a technician who quits one repair shop to go work at another shop for less money. I know you have heard of this too, and you’ve probably asked yourself, “Can this be true? And Why?” The answer rests within the culture of the company. More specifically, the boss, manager, or a toxic work environment literally pushed the technician out the door.
While money and benefits tend to attract people to a company, it won’t keep them there. When a technician begins to look over the fence for greener grass, that is usually a sign that something is wrong within the workplace. It also means that his or her heart is probably already gone. If the issue is not resolved, no amount of money will keep that technician for the long term. The heart is always the first to leave. The last thing that leaves is the technician’s toolbox.
Shop owners: Focus more on employee retention than acquisition. This is not to say that you should not be constantly recruiting. You should. What it does means is that once you hire someone, your job isn’t over, that’s when it begins. Get to know your technicians. Build strong relationships. Have frequent one-on-ones. Engage in meaningful conversation. Find what truly motivates your technicians. You may be surprised that while money is a motivator, it’s usually not the prime motivator.
One last thing; the cost of technician turnover can be financially devastating. It also affects shop morale. Do all you can to create a workplace where technicians feel they are respected, recognized, and know that their work contributes to the overall success of the company. This will lead to improved morale and team spirit. Remember, when you see a technician’s toolbox rolling out of the bay on its way to another shop, the heart was most likely gone long before that.

Similar Topics

The Apprentice Equation: Management, Mentorship, and Motivation [THA 430]
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, and Today's Class Recorded at Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo 2025, discover the transformative power of apprenticeship programs in the automotive industry. Learn about the success stories, effective strategies, challenges, and the importance of mentoring in training the next generation of automotive technologists.
Jake Sorensen and Zach Coccimiglio, McNeil’s Auto Care in Sandy, UT. Listen to Jake’s previous episodes HERE
Bill Weaver, NAPA Autotech Trainer. Listen to Bill’s previous episodes HERE
Show Notes:
Watch Full Video Episode Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo: https://visionkc.com/ Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00) Apprentice Programs Discussion (00:01:06) NAPA Apprentice Program Development (00:02:10) Mentorship in Apprenticeship (00:03:30) EV Training Center Experience (00:03:49) Motivation Behind Rapid Progress (00:05:35) Learning and Application (00:06:04) Self-Motivation and Accountability (00:08:01) Discipline in Apprenticeship (00:08:19) Recruiting for Apprenticeships (00:10:16) Management Support for Apprenticeships (00:10:56) Apprenticeship Program Structure (00:11:54) Challenges in Apprenticeship Programs (00:12:26) Investment in Apprenticeship (00:12:47) Importance of Trade Schools (00:16:27) Challenges in Hiring (00:16:39) Reality of Pay Expectations (00:18:39) Recruitment Challenges (00:20:36) Understanding Career Interests (00:22:26) Industry Challenges (00:23:30) Apprenticeship Experience (00:24:34) Training Structure (00:25:06) Learning Through Teaching (00:25:41) Program Development Success (00:26:38) Identifying Potential Apprentices (00:28:12) Early Assessment of Fit (00:29:58) Mentoring Role (00:31:27) Apprenticeship Perspectives (00:33:14) Mentor Rotation Benefits (00:35:24) Training Opportunities (00:36:44) Unicorns in the Industry (00:38:39) Call to Action for Shop Owners (00:40:29)
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Today's Class Optimize training with Today's Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today's Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/ Connect with the Podcast: -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto -Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ -Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ -Follow on X: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz -Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ -Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider -All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books -Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom -Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections 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
Automotive Diagnostics, Badgers, and ADAS Calibration [E178] - Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech
NAPA Autotech’s team of ASE Master Certified Instructors are conducting over 1,200 classes covering 28 automotive topics. To see a selection, go to napaautotech.com for more details.
Contact Information
Email Matt: [email protected] Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel
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/
The 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 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.
The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.
Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.
Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
Artificial Intelligence Marketing: Watering Holes, Personas, and Automotive Branding [RR 1029]
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care, NAPA TRACS and Automotive Management Network This episode covers the critical role and impact of AI on marketing, the importance of persona marketing, and effective branding strategies. Learn about "watering holes," referring to identifying where potential customers spend their time online and offline, and how to effectively use persona marketing to target specific demographics. Dan stresses the importance of branding and community involvement, asserting that successful shops prioritize building brand recognition and relationships within their local areas. He also warns about trusting AI implicitly, referencing instances of AI being inaccurate. Dan Vance, Shop Dog Marketing.com Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode TST Big Event, March 29th, 2025: https://www.tstseminars.org/ Shop Dog Marketing at Shop Dog Marketing.com. "Want to see your auto repair shop thrive? Let Shop Dog Marketing be your guide. Our customer-first approach, combined with AI-driven creative content, ensures top rankings. Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00) AI in Marketing (00:01:02) The Importance of Networking (00:02:02) Consumer Behavior and Marketing (00:04:04) Bullet Points vs. Detailed Content (00:05:54) Creating Memorable Customer Experiences (00:06:32) Identifying Customer "Watering Holes" (00:08:29) Privacy Concerns in Marketing (00:09:41) The Rise of Persona Marketing (00:10:55) AI's Impact on Search Results (00:11:59) The Role of AI in Marketing Strategies (00:13:08) Caution with AI Information (00:14:12) Human Element in Marketing (00:17:34) Client Review Analysis (00:18:46) Women’s Expectations in Service (00:21:20) Impact of Professional Image (00:22:57) Targeting Ideal Customers (00:25:12) Purposeful Marketing Strategies (00:25:43) The Need for Customer Understanding (00:26:26) AI’s Role in Content Creation (00:28:07) Changing Landscape of AI (00:28:29) User Behavior and Decision Making (00:31:11) Branding in the Automotive Industry (00:31:55) Community Involvement for Branding (00:32:57) Conclusion and Call to Action (00:34:38)
Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care, NAPA TRACS and Automotive Management Network Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Get ready to grow your business with the Automotive Management Network: Find on the Web at http://AftermarketManagementNetwork.com for information that can help you move your business ahead and for the free and informative http://LaborRateTracker.com Connect with the Podcast: -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto -Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ -Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ -Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz -Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ -Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider -All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books -Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom -Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections 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
Thermal Management: The Future of Automotive Refrigerants and Technology [THA 422]
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, and Today's Class Recorded at the 45th annual Mobile Air Climate Systems Conference (MACS 2025) in Orlando, Florida, this episode dives into the evolving world of thermal management in vehicles. Our panel discusses the shift from traditional air conditioning to a more advanced approach, driven by the growing complexity of modern vehicles, especially EVs. They explore why maintaining optimal temperatures for batteries, electric motors, and other components is just as critical as passenger comfort. The conversation also covers alternative refrigerants, particularly blends, as a way to boost efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and adapt to changing battery technologies. With these advancements, the need for technician training and industry adaptation is greater than ever. Our experts emphasize the importance of collaboration across the industry to ensure a smooth transition and deliver effective solutions for both OEMs and aftermarket service providers.
Adam Kimmel, Koura, [email protected] Ryan Kooiman, Director of Training, Standard Motor Products. Ryan’s previous episodes HERE. Chuck Abbott, Global Marketing Manager, Koura Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode MACS Training Event & Trade Show: https://macsmobileairclimate.org/ National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF): https://wp.nastf.org/ Koura: https://www.kouraglobal.com/ Honeywell: https://www.honeywell.com/us/en Introduction and Sponsors (00:00:00) Evolution of Thermal Management (00:02:28) Consultative Role of Shop Owners (00:02:10) Rise of Thermal Management Specialists (00:03:08) Importance of Battery Temperature Control (00:03:46) Impact of Electric Compressors (00:05:45) Training on Thermal Management (00:12:19) Future of Refrigerants (00:09:52) Concerns with Flammable Refrigerants (00:11:04) Thermal Management in Electric Vehicles (00:14:04) Training Demand for Electric Vehicle Systems (00:15:26) Battery Chemistry and Future Developments (00:17:02) Shifting Priorities in Funding (00:18:27) Changing Thermal Management Needs (00:18:57) Service Recommendations for Blends (00:19:18) Collaboration in Industry (00:19:58) New Components in AC Systems (00:20:50) Complexity of Thermal Management Systems (00:22:15) Career Opportunities in Automotive Technology (00:23:06) Investing in New Refrigerant Machines (00:24:30) Consumer Benefits of Blend Refrigerants (00:25:05) Leakage Characteristics of Blends (00:26:14) Future of Refrigerant Machines (00:27:35) Importance of Thermal Management Knowledge (00:29:02) Final Thoughts on Education and Collaboration (00:32:57)
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Today's Class Optimize training with Today's Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today's Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/ Connect with the Podcast: -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto -Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ -Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ -Follow on X: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz -Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ -Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider -All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books -Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom -Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections 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
Is My Shop Management Lying to Me? Fixing Tech Costs [E158] - Business By The Numbers
By carmcapriotto

Hunt examines technician cost management within automotive repair shops shop management systems. He explores the issue of inaccurately reported labor costs, which frequently misrepresent the true financial health of the business.
Hunt discusses the underlying reasons for this discrepancy, and how they calculate technician compensation. The episode talks to various methodologies that can be employed to rectify these inaccuracies, ensuring that shop owners possess a more precise understanding of their financial obligations.
The objective of this episode is to empower our listener with actionable insights that can lead to improved profitability and operational efficiency in their businesses.
Takeaways:
The podcast discusses the critical issue of accurately recording technician costs in shop management systems, which is often miscalculated, leading to significant profit discrepancies. The episode emphasizes the importance of revising technician cost methods to reflect true expenses, thereby enhancing financial transparency and operational efficiency. Listeners are urged to assess their current payroll structures and make necessary adjustments to ensure more precise financial forecasting. Understanding the relationship between productivity and payroll costs is vital for maintaining profitability, with practical strategies provided to achieve this.
Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive
Thanks to our partner, NAPA TRACS
Did you know that NAPA TRACS has onsite training plus six days a week support?
It all starts when a local representative meets with you to learn about your business and how you run it. After all, it's your shop, so it's your choice.
Let us prove to you that Tracs is the single best shop management system in the business. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at NAPATRACS.com
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