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

By Joe Marconi in Joe's Blog
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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.

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Did You Hear what JD Power's Press Release says about Communication? Reviewing the 2025 ASI [E045] - Speak Up!
By carmcapriotto

Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-Bound
Watch Full Video Episode
In Our Episode today we’re diving into the ASI - The annual report from JD Power that measures client satisfaction amongst major brands in the non-dealer auto repair world - which we affectionately call the “Aftermarket”
Today’s Word of the Day is:
Extrapolation
Noun
noun: extrapolation; plural noun: extrapolations
the action of estimating or concluding something by assuming that existing trends will continue or a current method will remain applicable.
In this episode our host, Craig O’Neill invites you to take a close look at JD Powers Aftermarket Service Index (ASI).
There are some unique takeaways regarding communication “shortfalls” and they play well into the narratives we have been discussing in for several years.
If you think surveys have nothing to offer you - listen up and you’ll see why Craig values these annual findings!
Link to the the 2025 JD Power ASI Press Release: https://www.jdpower.com/business/press-releases/2025-us-aftermarket-service-index-asi-study
Link to the 2025 JD Power CSI Press Release:
https://www.jdpower.com/business/press-releases/2025-us-customer-service-index-csi-study
Link to the 2023 JD Power CSI Press Release:
https://www.jdpower.com/business/press-releases/2023-us-customer-service-index-csi-study
Let's go into the Press Release now - from April 29th.
The key findings cited in the 2025 study:
Finding 1.
“Aftermarket Service Providers lag when it comes to use of technology:”
Craig reacts to JD Powers findings regarding the technology disparity between the aftermarket and the dealer segments.
Finding 2.
“Customer prefer text message updates - but are more likely to receive phone calls:”
Craig shares his perspective on the significance behind the measurable satisfaction point difference between phone calls and texts as the means for receiving updates.
Key Note - The article cites that this applies “When they (the client) indicate texts are preferred.”
Listeners are invited to compare this note on the 2025 ASI to the 2023 CSI (linked above)
Finding 3.
“Photo and video multi-point inspection (MPI) results being used more frequently:”
Craig highlights this positive news - but emphasises a significant caveat with regards to the quality and content of MPI (a.k.a. DVI’s)
Listeners are invited to compare this note on teh 2025 ASI to the 2024 ASI:
2024 - MPI - < 23% receive any videos or pictures
2025 - MPI - < STILL “Less likely” than to provide images.
Finding 4.
“Less common amenities have greatest effect on satisfaction:”
Less Common Amenities have greatest effect on satisfaction
Chargers in the lobby!
Craig highlights how JD Power has consistently been indicating that clients who can charge their devices easily have higher satisfaction rates.
RANKINGS:
Factors for the ASI: Ease of scheduling/getting vehicle in for service; fairness of charges; service advisor courtesy; service advisor performance; service facility; time to complete service; and quality of work.
The opinions expressed in this podcast are that of the host.
All citations and direct quotes from JD Power are done with permission.
Listeners are highly encouraged to subscribe to receive emails from JD Power and conduct their own reviews of these important surveys to draw meaningful conclusions with a goal of improving client satisfaction in our industry.
Contact Information
Email Craig O'Neill: [email protected] Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters
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
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
How Did A Mother-Daughter Duo Overcome Staffing Struggles? [RR 1006]
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Auto Care Katy and Victoria Carl, a mother-daughter duo, share their unique journey of taking over the business five years ago, discussing their challenges, particularly in staffing and recruitment. They emphasize the importance of coaching and mentorship, innovative hiring practices, and creating a family-oriented work culture. Their story highlights the power of resilience, community involvement, and supporting women in the automotive industry, offering valuable insights and inspiration to listeners. Katy and Victoria Carl, Carl’s Advanced Automotive & Truck Repair Center, Voorheesville, NY 12186 Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Location Overview (00:00:32) Business Acquisition Opportunity (00:01:39) Family Values in Business (00:02:32) Importance of Coaching (00:04:15) Takeaways from Coaching Program (00:07:12) Staffing Challenges (00:08:56) Changing Recruitment Strategies (00:12:07) Texting as a Recruitment Tool (00:13:24) Interviewing Process Evolution (00:15:47) Compensation Plans as Recruitment Tools (00:19:47) Family Involvement in Business (00:22:24) Importance of Team Culture (00:23:40) Adoption of a Four-Day Work Week (00:25:10) Community Engagement Initiatives (00:26:58) Empowering Future Generations (00:29:14) Women in Trades Advocacy (00:31:36) Transitioning to New Systems (00:33:31) Realizing 'Okay' Isn't Enough (00:35:06) Focus on Financial Metrics (00:35:29) Long-Term Goals and Planning (00:36:37) Pride in Achievements (00:37:18) Encouragement to Pursue Passions (00:38:06) Building a Support Network (00:39:42) Embracing Change (00:40:42)
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Auto Care 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 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
Why Did the Auto Shop Owner Cross the Road? To Get to Profit First! [E180] - Chris Cotton Weekly Blitz
By carmcapriotto

The Weekly Blitz is brought to you by our friends over at Shop Marketing Pros. If you want to take your shop to the next level, you need great marketing. Shop Marketing Pros does top-tier marketing for top-tier shops.
Click here to learn more about Top Tier Marketing by Shop Marketing Pros and schedule a demo:https://shopmarketingpros.com/chris/
Check out their podcast here: https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
If you would like to join their private Facebook group go here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/autorepairmarketingmastermind
In this episode, Coach Chris Cotton from Auto Fix Auto Shop Coaching delves into a range of strategies designed to help auto repair shop owners elevate their business operations through the implementation of the "Profit First" methodology. This approach is centered around the critical aspects of cash flow management, profitability enhancement, and the adoption of effective financial practices. Chris underscores the significance of establishing separate accounts specifically for profit, taxes, and operating expenses to ensure a clear and organized financial structure. He also highlights the necessity of having supportive financial partners, such as banks and accountants, who can provide valuable guidance and support.
Furthermore, Chris encourages shop owners to take proactive steps towards improving their financial health by engaging with educational resources, such as watching a webinar or seeking additional guidance tailored to their specific needs. This episode is proudly sponsored by Shop Marketing Pros, a company dedicated to providing specialized marketing strategies aimed at boosting the visibility and success of auto repair shops. Through their sponsorship, Shop Marketing Pros underscores their commitment to supporting the growth and development of businesses within the auto repair industry.

Introduction to the Episode (00:00:04)
Coach Chris Cotton introduces the podcast and its focus on auto repair business strategies.
Importance of Profit First (00:01:01)

Chris discusses the significance of adopting the Profit First mentality for auto repair businesses.
Webinar Promotion (00:02:20)

Information about an upcoming webinar on implementing the Profit First system is provided.
Understanding Cash Flow (00:03:24)

The necessity of managing cash flow for successful auto repair operations is emphasized.
Challenges with Traditional Accounting (00:04:35)

Critique of traditional accounting methods and their inadequacy for auto repair shops.
Profit First Methodology Explained (00:05:46)

Overview of the Profit First approach and its application in the auto repair industry.
Setting Up Separate Accounts (00:06:58)

The importance of establishing separate accounts for profit, taxes, and expenses is discussed.
Bank and Accountant Collaboration (00:08:02)

Challenges in getting banks and accountants on board with the Profit First system are explored.
Incorporating Dave Ramsey's Principles (00:10:16)

Integration of financial control principles from Dave Ramsey is highlighted for better financial management.
Results of Implementing the System (00:11:27)

The positive outcomes of using the auto shop profits and cash flow system are outlined.
Call to Action (00:14:44)

Chris encourages listeners to take proactive steps in managing their shop's finances effectively.

https://autoshopcoaching.com/
https://connect.autoshopcoaching.com/profits-cashflow-webinar-form

Connect with Chris:

[email protected]
Phone: 940.400.1008
www.autoshopcoaching.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/
AutoFixAutoShopCoachingYoutube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae

#autofixautoshopcoaching #autofixbeautofixing #autoshopprofits #autoshopprofit #autoshopprofitsfirst #autoshopleadership #autoshopmanagement #autorepairshopcoaching #autorepairshopconsulting #autorepairshoptraining #autorepairshop #autorepair #serviceadvisor #serviceadvisorefficiency #autorepairshopmarketing #theweeklyblitz #autofix #shopmarketingpros #autofixautoshopcoachingbook
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
If Not You - Who is Watching Your Auto Repair Shop [E158] - Chris Cotton Weekly Blitz
By carmcapriotto

The Weekly Blitz is brought to you by our friends over at Shop Marketing Pros. If you want to take your shop to the next level, you need great marketing. Shop Marketing Pros does top-tier marketing for top-tier shops.
Click here to learn more about Top Tier Marketing by Shop Marketing Pros and schedule a demo:https://shopmarketingpros.com/chris/
Check out their podcast here: https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
If you would like to join their private Facebook group go here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/autorepairmarketingmastermind
Setting up the story (00:01:07) Chris explains a shocking letter received from a potential client and the emotional impact it had on him.
Discovery of theft (00:02:13) Chris recounts how he discovered theft in the client's business through inspection tickets and the importance of monitoring business activities.
Theft details revealed (00:05:20) The client's email reveals elaborate theft involving stealing money, parts, and unauthorized vendor orders, leading to a shocking discovery.
Impact and response (00:08:09) Chris reflects on the magnitude of the theft and emphasizes the importance of monitoring business activities and taking necessary actions.
Connect with Chris:
[email protected]
Phone: 940.400.1008
www.autoshopcoaching.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/
AutoFixAutoShopCoachingYoutube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae

#autofixautoshopcoaching #autofixbeautofixing #autoshopprofits #autoshopprofit #autoshopprofitsfirst #autoshopleadership #autoshopmanagement #autorepairshopcoaching #autorepairshopconsulting #autorepairshoptraining #autorepairshop #autorepair #serviceadvisor #serviceadvisorefficiency #autorepairshopmarketing #theweeklyblitz #autofix #shopmarketingpros #autofixautoshopcoachingbook
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
From Zero to Hero: How did Bret Turn His Struggling Family Business Around? [AW 188]
By carmcapriotto

"40 plus years in business and we had zero money in the bank." Bret shares his journey from struggling to successful business owner, emphasizing the importance of seeking outside help and continuous learning. He discusses the transformation of his business into a profitable venture with the help of a coaching company and the implementation of key profit indicators. Brett also highlights the significance of team training and understanding generational differences in the workplace. Bret Fadley, Fadley's Auto Masters & Tires, York, PA. Show Notes:
The rule of holes (00:03:00) Bret discusses the rule of holes and knowing when to stop digging. Struggling to save the business (00:03:29) Bret talks about the challenges his family's business faced after his mom passed away and left zero money in the bank. Turning the business around (00:06:08) Bret shares his resolve to turn the business around, pay off debts, and seek outside help through coaching to achieve profitability. Learning to run a business (00:12:04) The importance of getting outside help to learn how to run a business. The importance of team building through training events (00:16:48) Discussing the investment and decision to take the whole team to major training events for team building and a happier work environment. Understanding and adapting to the younger generation (00:17:52) Sharing the experience of attending a seminar with Sara Fraser on getting to know Gen Z and millennials and the importance of adapting to their work style and slang. The need to attract and encourage younger people in the automotive industry (00:20:28) Highlighting the importance of changing and adapting the industry to attract the next generation and addressing the tech shortage. Thanks to our Partner, Dorman Training. Training technicians today for the challenges of tomorrow! https://www.dormantraininglive.com/
Connect with the Podcast:
-Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Follow 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
-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
-The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com
-Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections

Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio