What We're About

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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!

When asked “what drives you to do what you do at the Institute?” Mark replied, I live for the “ahh-ha moments” – The moments when someone “gets” a concept, and they instantly know how they can apply it to their lives.  Mark’s experience, skill, and willingness to go the extra mile helping thousands of shops make him an integral part of the institute team.

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. 

Mike began his automotive career in the Registered Apprenticeship Program, with over 10 years of training as a Red Seal Journeyman Technician in European car repair. Now the Shop Manager of Alberta Asian Motorworks and Alberta European Motorworks, Mike is excited to continue helping the industry as an Advisor facilitator. He describes himself as father, husband, dog dad, and over all lover of all things Central Alberta. 

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.

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.  

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.

BJ has been in the automotive repair industry for over 40 years. As a successful multi-shop owner, he and his team make the culture in their business a top priority. After a 3-year hiatus from the Institute, he's back to work with shops and continue improving the industry. BJ has been married for 39 years, has 2 children, and 5 grandchildren. 

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.

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.

Andy’s background in automotive & business training has roots working directly for dealerships, independent repair, as well as private diagnostician practices including performance tuning, programming, & calibrations. Andy has a strong background in Technician roles, including Master Technician, Shop Foreman, and District Manager with both ASE and OE certifications. Andy is the founder and owner of Andy Tirado LLC to which he contracts training & speaking engagements across the world in the Automotive, Corporate, and Educational sectors and is a proud member of the John Maxwell team as a speaker and influencer.

Joey's passion is operations. She applies strong analytical skills and a superior work ethic to solve problems. She finds a lot of meaning and purpose in work, especially when she can connect that work to helping others.

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.

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!

Kurt handles all of the Institute's IT needs, covering things like our web systems, API integrations, app development, and even sorts out our printers! But he does a lot more than that, Kurt is truly an inspiration to the team, he believes in the mission and foundation of our company more than most, and is always pushing us to do better. 

Don has worked in the automotive industry for over 30 years. After taking 2 years of auto shop in high school, building his first motor during his senior year. He started out as a tire installer in college, quickly moving into sales and management. He has worked for Big O Tires, American Eagle Wheels, CustomerLink, ASA Tire and Hollander, covering many areas of the automotive industry. Currently living in Southern California with his family, buying, restoring and selling classic cars. Just ask which one is his favorite!