“Just because someone can produce doesn’t mean they’re ready to lead.”

This week on Wrench Turners Podcast,

Mechanic and Service Manager

Scott Auto Group

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

Wrench Turners Merch

Wrench Turners Website

Business-Focused Content on LinkedIn

Entertainment Content on TikTok