What We're About

​FOUNDER & CHAIRMAN OF BOARD

Cecil Bullard has spent most of his life in the Automotive Service and Repair Industry, held every position and operated multiple successful shops. He now serves as a consultant, trainer and teacher.  He believes that there is unlimited opportunity and potential in today's shops and that your business should provide you the life you want.

CEO, GEAR GROUP HOLDINGS, LLC

Wayne has dedicated his career to the communication and marketing field, evolving from selling printing services to senior management roles and entrepreneurship, launching successful companies working with Fortune 500 clients. He has served on multiple industry boards, progressing to leadership positions. Now, Wayne specializes in developing strategic operational plans, focusing on intentional development. With a rich background in public speaking, mentoring, and community involvement, his goal is to share his extensive experience to help others.

CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER

Michael's journey started in corporate financial services sales, climbing the ranks to regional leadership in the Fortune 100. He then ventured into strategic management consulting, becoming a practice leader in the Big 4. As a private equity entrepreneur, he co-founded four successful companies spanning financial services, international trading, strategic consulting, and fine art.

PRESIDENT, THE INSTITUTE

Aaron has been an integral force in the industry, starting at a Chevrolet dealership as a service advisor before moving into a sales position and finally opening his own shop in 2018. With a help-first mentality and the lessons learned in his career, he knows what it takes to rise above the competition. Joining The Institute, Aaron looks to give back to the industry he loves through group facilitation, business coaching, & individual mentorship.

Chief Content Officer

Kent has devoted a decade within the automotive industry to help shops succeed. His focus has always been in operations, process, and time management. He believes our businesses should inspire fulfilling and meaningful lives. Minimalist, family-man, speaker, musician gamer, and always eager to help.

VP OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Jimmy Lea has toured thousands of shops in his coast to coast travels. He's seen the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly when it comes to company culture, marketing, processes, and everything in between. Using his knowledge from decades of experience, he's become an evangelist of successful shops and helps spread their wisdom to elevate the industry. 

DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMS

Jennifer has been a part of the automotive industry her entire career, starting with a dual Bachelor's degree in HR and Operations Management. She has been a part of the GPG since 2004 and owns a very successful repair facility in northern New York. Assisting owners in understanding their finances and seeing the difference that makes in their business is the best, however, empowering her own staff and seeing them reach their goals is even better. 

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Joey keeps the gears turning behind the scenes… literally. As a former business owner in the civil process service world, she learned how to stay focused, adaptable, and always a few steps ahead. But at the heart of her work is a deep appreciation for people, the complexity of clients, the collaboration of teams, and the drive to make things better for everyone involved.At The Institute, Joey leads cross-functional projects that connect people, platforms, and priorities. She believes that when everyone’s rowing in the same direction, great things happen - and she’s usually the one making sure we’re all in the same boat

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

Stu is an innovative digital marketing leader with progressive operational and technical experience delivering world-class marketing campaigns on both a strategic and execution level. Developed a keen understanding of all areas of branding and has a passion for delivering results. Well-versed in online & offline marketing strategies within the ad tech, real estate, financial, sports, and automotive industries. Stu has also earned an undergraduate degree in Marketing and a Master's degree in Business Administration from Utah State. Go Aggies!

MEDIA PRODUCTION MANAGER

Michael heads up the production of our educational and promotional media, including videos, photographs and more! He's inspired by the changes that can come to someone's life when they're able to get their business on track. He also makes a mean cup of coffee!

SENIOR MARKETING SPECIALIST

Elena has a passion for marketing because it's all about understanding people, telling stories, and creating connections. Every story of excellence deserves to be told, and she is dedicated to showcasing the achievements and journey's that inspire and empower our current and potential clients.
Outside of work, Elena enjoys hiking in our beautiful Utah mountains near HQ, spending quality time with her beloved fur babies, and unwinding with a book or video games!

CONTENT MARKETING SPECIALIST

Ralleigh brings his love for design everyday with him to work. Guided by our values he brings his skills and passion for video and photo editing to work everyday. Working in production and marketing, Ralleigh does everything he can to put The Institute in front of those who can use our guidance.

MARKETING SPECIALIST

Jaselyne has a background in both sales and marketing, giving her a unique perspective on building relationships and creating meaningful campaigns. She has always enjoyed being creative and connecting with others, which is what drew her to marketing and communications. Outside of work, Jaselyne loves spending time with family and friends, traveling, and outdoor activities!

INDUSTRY COACH & FACILITATOR

From high school auto shop to a degree in automotive technology at SUNY Morrisville, Parker's passion for cars drives a journey spanning over decades. With experience in Chevrolet dealerships and independent shops, Parker founded his own shop, Branch Automotive in 2010, quickly becoming a top diesel shop in Colorado. A sports enthusiast who loves skiing, wake surfing, golf, hunting, and rodeo, Parker also roots for the Colorado Avalanche Hockey team. Parker remains dedicated to learning and sharing insights related to the automotive industry.

INDUSTRY COACH & FACILITATOR

Ryan Bushman brings over 30 years of automotive industry experience, growing his family’s repair shop into a high-performing multi-bay operation before successfully selling the business in 2025. An ASE Master Technician with degrees in Automotive Technology and Applied Management, he specializes in operations, financial performance, and team development—helping shop owners build stronger, more profitable businesses. Ryan lives in Salt Lake City with his wife and three children and enjoys golfing, the outdoors, and BYU sports.

INDUSTRY COACH & FACILITATOR

Ryan's career started as a sergeant in the U.S. Marine Corps leading 70+ Marines as well as a Federal ICAC Agent/Detective.  As a General Manager in the retail auto industry, Ryan has overseen four stores and connected with over 150+ employees. Beyond work, I find joy in my 18-year marriage, parenting three children, and finding tranquility by the water.

INDUSTRY COACH & FACILITATOR

Aldo’s 20+ year career experience has been working in privately owned business divided between the construction and the automotive industry. The automotive shop that promoted Aldo to service advisor provided training and that is where the curiosity and drive to become a coach was born. Aldo’s intention is to become as impactful as his coach was with him and help our family of shops. Aside from a dedication to coaching, Aldo is a devoted family man that enjoys spending time with his family outdoors, zoos, off-roading and visiting libraries in different areas.

INDUSTRY COACH

Fred has been in the automotive service industry since he was in high school. After becoming a technician, he was selected to manage  the operations of two service stations. After working for a new car dealer and an independent auto service center, Fred went out on his own in 2003, starting his own shop, Tech 1 Auto. Fred just recently sold his shop and is eager to help other shop owners achieve the success he has enjoyed.  

INDUSTRY COACH

Kevin is a results driven MBA professional with over 30 years of senior executive experience in business development, systems analysis, process mapping, continuous improvement coaching, and training to profitable sustainability. Past Regional Winner of the "Entrepreneur of The Year Award" sponsored by Ernst & Young.

OPERATIONS SPECIALIST

Lauren has joined the team as an Operations Specialist, bringing her strong organizational skills and a detail-oriented mindset to help keep things running smoothly. With a small business of her own, and a background in administrative support, client services, and project coordination, she is passionate about creating efficient systems and supporting her team. Outside of work, Lauren enjoys reading, painting, and spending alarming amounts of money on LEGO.

OPERATIONS SPECIALIST

Dani has dedicated the past 10 years of her life to the healthcare industry, and while it was a rewarding career, she wanted to change things up a little bit. She helps The Institute on the administrative side, and looks forward to assisting with growing our network of successful shop owners and entrepreneurs.