Q: Tell us a little about yourself and how you got started in the automotive industry: JC: I was looking to make a little bit more money and at the same time get a job where I can learn something different for my future. I started working at a Toyota dealer as a lot porter and then I moved to be a lube technician. After being a lube technician, I had an opportunity to go to Miramar college for the Toyota T-Ten program. After graduation, I moved to be a line technician. I worked for Toyota for 14 years before deciding to be independent. Q: What inspired you to open Dragonfly Automotive, and is there a story behind the name? JC: As I mentioned, after working for Toyota for 14 years, I decided to take the challenge to be on my own. Dragonfly Automotive was already an existing shop, which I found for sale on Craigslist. We decided to buy the shop and keep the name. We opened in June 2014 and have been in business for 11 years! Q: What values guide the way you run your shop, and how do those values show up in your customer relationships? JC: Treat others as you want to be treated. Respect is a priority in our business. Q: Is there a customer interaction or experience you can share that stands out as especially meaningful to you? JC: Well, I think we get new input from customers all the time. You never stop learning in this industry. Every day is a learning experience. Q: How has your involvement with the ASCCA helped you grow, personally or professionally? JC: I’ve been very lucky to be surrounded by positive people. Motivation is there every day, and the association has been a key to opening other opportunities for success. Q: What do you enjoy most about being part of the ASCCA community? JC: Most important is that I don’t feel alone anymore if I have a question or if there’s something I don’t know how to do. There is always somebody with the right advice or answers to help. Q: What advice would you give to someone just starting out in the industry? JC: It’s not easy to break the routine of working every day just to make money. But it’s about learning how to build a stronger business that lasts. Enroll to learn. Q: Outside of work, what are your favorite ways to spend time or recharge? JC: Family. They are my priority. |