Technology is constantly revolutionizing the automotive industry. Advanced systems like automatic braking and cruise control have become crucial parts of modern vehicles. These innovations make driving easier, safer, and more convenient.
However, understanding the modern additions and ensuring they get repaired properly isn’t easy. Repair shops will have to be equipped with both technicians and systems.
Jake Rodenroth joins Matt DiFrancesco in the Your Business, Your Life podcast. He is the former Director of OEM and Industry Technical Relations at asTech®. Together they discuss how small, independent repair shop owners can keep up with the speed of this rapidly changing industry.
As an automotive business owner, it is crucial to know where the future of the automotive industry is headed and what independent collision repair shops need to do to help face the challenges that come along with it. Schedule a free 20-minute conversation with Matt DiFrancesco to discuss your financial and business situation to create a roadmap that will align your business and life.
About Jake
Jake Rodenroth started working on cars with his dad very young. At 18, he became a technician with Mercedes Benz. After working on the mechanical side, he spent 13 years working for Osteen Auto Body. He helped the company become a Jaguar and Land Rover structural aluminum certified facility in 2004.
Jake was responsible for OEM relations and certified collision network procurement programs at asTech®. He worked with different companies to raise awareness and develop a curriculum about diagnostics in the collision space. He also collaborates with organizations like SCRS and Collision Advice to help educate the industry on the ever-changing state of automotive technology. He gives us some unique insights into the automotive repair industry, especially the collision industry, because he’s grown up with automobiles.
The Biggest Problem In Automotive Industry
One major issue this industry faces is a shortage of young people and technicians. So, there is a need for specialists who can run a successful shop and hopefully turn it into a multi-generational legacy. They will be able to diagnose a vehicle, make a repair, take something apart, organize all the nuts and bolts, you know, clean everything, and fix the issue immaculately.
A young technician who picks whichever road, mechanical or collision, will have to go the extra mile. It’s not just, “I need to learn everything on that car.” You will have to know everything in general. For instance, what is going on in terms of the industry? What is the latest design? That is because we get into these more complex vehicles with high voltage power trains and driver assist. If you don’t understand multiple disciplines, you can struggle.
One of the things that Jake recommends for technicians is that you want to make sure you learn the things you have never done. So if you work in the collision space, study the mechanical side. That way, the customer who owns the same car doesn’t get two different answers. You don’t have to be a specialist in each area but have a broad base to serve the customer better.
As technology and the processes continue to change, your world could be more difficult. Due to this, technicians continued their education and studied what was going on with cars and in the marketplace. In addition, the customers are evolving, too.
Focus On Customer Experience
An independent shop owner should understand the importance of customer experience. Businesses that are evolving have understood how crucial this component is. As a result, they constantly hustle to make it easier for the customer.
As a shop, we need to deliver accuracy. It has to happen if you tell me you’ll call me by 10 am tomorrow. Consistently deliver the promise and give dates. Communication is everything!
Get In Touch With Jake
If you are looking for more technical knowledge or how you can progress as an automotive business owner, you can contact Jake. You can email him at jakerodenroth@yahoo.com.
Contact HighLift Financial Today!
Are you looking to align your family and business for generational wealth? Then schedule a private consultation session with me. This exploratory call is free to assess your situation. Next, contact me to discuss where you want to take your business and life.
Go through my blog posts or podcasts, If you want to know more about our team, which can act as external key personnel for business, or learn about how auto shop or collision shop owners are growing their business.
Disclaimer
The information compiled and posted here solely represents the opinions and views of the guest. It might not be similar to the opinions and views of High Lift Financial. It is not a substitute for tax or legal advice or professional investment.
Always consult your financial advisor with any personal or business planning queries. DiFrancesco Financial Concierge, LLC. d/b/a HighLift Financial is a Registered Investment Advisor registered with the State of Pennsylvania and subject to the State of Pennsylvania’s regulatory oversight.