Episode 122

"Ask Us Anything" Webinar with Justin Morgan [E122]

Matt Fanslow and guest Justin Morgan tackle various issues within the automotive industry during a live "Ask Us Anything" session. They discuss the struggle for industry respect, the challenges small shops face, and the crucial role of specialization. The conversation highlights the importance of training for staff development and the difficulties in motivating technicians to attend. They also explore the impact of influential figures on training, the dynamics between shop owners and technicians, and the importance of mentorship for new technicians.

Show Notes

  • The barrier to elevating respect in the industry (00:01:18) Discussion on the challenges and factors affecting the level of respect in the automotive industry.
  • The importance of specialization for small shops (00:09:26) The challenges faced by smaller shops and the importance of specializing in specific car lines or services.
  • The impact of training on staff improvement (00:14:55) The significance of training and its role in enhancing the skills and knowledge of staff members in the automotive industry.
  • The frustration of low training attendance (00:15:17) Discussion about the disappointment of low training attendance and the struggle to motivate technicians to take advantage of available training opportunities.
  • The lack of awareness about available training (00:17:20) Exploration of the widespread lack of knowledge about the existence of various training resources and events within the automotive industry.
  • Challenges of implementing online training (00:19:22) Discussion about the resistance and challenges in implementing online training, including the mental block towards online training and the lack of engagement with online resources.
  • Differentiating job from career mindset (00:21:02) Exploration of the distinction between a job mindset and a career mindset and the difficulty in converting individuals from one mindset to the other.
  • Discussion about specialized tools and training costs (00:25:21) Conversation about the cost and necessity of specialized tools and training, particularly focusing on the cost of entry and P-WAS tools for specific car lines.
  • Challenges Faced by Small Shops (00:32:00) Challenges faced by small shops and the struggle for improvement and recognition.
  • Perpetuating Positive Evolution (00:38:29) Addressing the negative attitudes towards the automotive industry and encouraging perseverance and growth.
  • Delayed Gratification in the Automotive Industry (00:42:26) Comparison with other skilled trades and the potential for growth and success in the automotive industry.
  • Investing in New Technicians (00:43:28) Discussion on investing in new technicians, advice for newcomers, and the challenges of starting out in the automotive industry.
  • Discovering Your True Calling (00:45:11) Exploration of finding one's true calling, the expectations on young people, and the importance of giving opportunities without bias.
  • Developing Mechanical Aptitude (00:46:21) The impact of changing environments, the lack of mechanical aptitude in younger generations, and the need for patience in skill development.
  • Dealing with Frustrations in the Trade (00:50:01) Addressing the difference between frustration with vehicles and feeling stuck in the trade, and the importance of managing toxic work environments.

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com

Email Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.com

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE

Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

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Matt Fanslow

Matt Fanslow is the diagnostic tech/shop manager at Riverside Automotive in Red Wing, MN. His primary responsibilities are to diagnose driveability and electrical/electronic issues, and perform most all programming, coding, initializing, adoptions, etc. Basically, if it needs to be figured out or has wires, it goes to Matt.

He’s been a tech since 1996. Matt is also a subject matter expert for ASE and has instructed at Vision Hi-Tech Training and Expo. Matt has participated on 18 ASE technical committees for the ASE Practice Test, A6, A7, A8, and L1 tests. He’s also done case studies for Standard Motor Products. Fanslow’s goal is to do everything in his power to improve the overall level of professionalism within the automotive and light truck repair trade and also raise the level of its public image.