“Just because someone can produce doesn’t mean they’re ready to lead.”
This week on Wrench Turners Podcast,
Mechanic and Service Manager
Willie Carter
In this episode, I sat down with Willie Carter, a former mechanic turned service manager who knows what it takes to rise in the ranks. Willie shares his journey, from fixing up a beat-up Hyundai Scoupe in high school to leading a team at a major Honda dealership.
He doesn’t hold back on the tough lessons he’s learned along the way—like why taking on the jobs no one else wants can be the key to advancing your career. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to go from the shop floor to management, Willie’s story is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.
Watch now and find out why “getting comfortable in the uncomfortable” might be the best advice you’ll hear today.
Let’s get into it.
j.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
01:19 Becoming a Mechanic
06:28 Challenges and Learning
12:10 First Steps in Automotive
18:22 Transitioning to Leadership
26:12 The Importance of Hard Work
32:26 Advice for Aspiring Mechanics
Takeaways
- Willie's journey into mechanics began out of necessity.
- Trade schools presented both challenges and opportunities for growth.
- Experience is crucial for retaining knowledge in the automotive field.
- Proving oneself in a new environment is essential for gaining respect.
- Taking on difficult tasks can accelerate learning and career advancement.
- Leadership requires a willingness to help others and share knowledge.
- Continuous learning is vital for personal and professional growth.
- Automotive is evolving, and technicians must adapt to new challenges.
- Building relationships with colleagues can enhance learning experiences.
- Embracing discomfort is key to achieving success in any career.
Wrench Turners Podcast on YouTube
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