Today we’d like to introduce you to Troy Nicolls.
Hi Troy, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
The clutch in my Honda Civic failed when I was about 18 or 19 years old, so my friend helped me get it towed to a local shop. I could not afford to have it fixed or have anyone to depend on for help, so the business owner proposed that I work for him in exchange for the cost of the repair. My first assignment was to replace my friend’s window motor. After several years and various failed career attempts, I returned to that same shop to inquire as to how I could one day have my name on a technician uniform. A firm decision was made that automotive would be my chosen lifelong career path from that day forward.
Since then, I have swept and mopped, crawled and climbed, sweated and cursed, turned one wrench after another to earn a living in the industry after starting off with no prior experience or background in the field.
Twelve years later, I have suffered many defeats and celebrated enough victories, each one a lesson in humility. I owe much of my gratitude to the other men who provided mentorship every step of the way, before I could even properly identify any component on an automobile by name. With the resources and knowledge they shared, I have been able to provide a life for my family. I also give some thanks to those who doubted me at any point in my journey. Many of those people are more than likely still in the same position, wearing the same tired uniform, and making the same paycheck as they were back then.
Today, I am the sole proprietor of a successful company that is backed by a strong reputation in my area, and a loyal customer base that continues to grow. The source of my pride comes from having a community of friends, family, and neighbors who know they can always depend on me.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The middle-aged men who were coworkers or supervisors that held such contempt for the young, inexperienced rookie I used to be and treated me in degrading ways, spoke to be patronizingly, and would make me the butt of their jokes. And the very kind and generous, patient and understanding gentlemen who showed me too much leniency, who I regretted letting any of them down. And the pay for the first ten years was hardly survivable.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m known for my dependability, my dedication to ethical practices and my honesty, and the integrity that is shown when my customers realize that I am not ripping people off or being deceptive like so many other mechanics are known to be like.
I’m also good at suspension work. I’ve done thousands of alignments, even on certain applications that seasoned veteran technicians were stumped by or seemed impressed that I could manage.
I am known for my inner drive that compels me to succeed, which not everyone who claims they want to be a mechanic necessarily has within them.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Doing the ASE practice tests, the study preparation books and reviews, and video learning for ASE exams is how I learned a lot of what I know,
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