From Transmission Tech to Thriving Multi-Shop Owner: The Story of Bobby Lambert and Lake Sumter Auto Repair

When you talk to Bobby Lambert, owner of Lake Sumter Auto Repair and Transmissions in Florida, you’re immediately struck by his humility. He’s the first to tell you that his success didn’t come overnight, and he’s quick to credit the mentors, coaches, and training that helped him get there. But make no mistake: Bobby’s story is one of grit, growth, and a relentless commitment to doing things the right way.

A Passion Ignited Early

Bobby’s journey into the automotive industry started in high school. Growing up in Camden, South Carolina, he enrolled in the Bowtech vocational program, an experience that would set the course for his career. “The instructor there had a transmission shop,” Bobby recalled. “I worked for him in the afternoons. We’d pull transmissions, tear them down, and I’d learn how to put them back together. That’s where it all started.” That early hands-on experience taught him not only the mechanics of transmissions but the value of dedication and extra effort. He spent countless evenings learning after hours, unpaid, driven purely by curiosity and passion.

Building a Career in Florida

In 1982, Bobby moved to Florida chasing a girl, he admits with a laugh. The relationship didn’t last, but something better did: his career. He joined Lake Sumter Transmissions and worked his way up through nearly every role in the shop including R&R tech, builder, diagnostic technician, service advisor, and eventually manager. By 2018, after decades of dedication, the shop’s owners were ready to retire and offered Bobby the chance to buy the business. “It was exciting and terrifying all at once,” he said. “They taught me a lot, but there was a lot they didn’t teach me, especially about the business side.” That’s when Bobby turned to The Institute for Automotive Business Excellence, then transitioning from RLO Training. “I went to a NAPA conference in Biloxi and sat in on one of Dan’s classes,” he said. “I thought, ‘This guy is telling me everything I need to hear.’ I found him afterward and said, ‘Sign me up.’”

Coaching, Growth, and Transformation

Bobby dove into The Institute’s programs, starting with Gorilla Shop Management and one-on-one coaching. His coach, John Woffler, “kicked my ass for about a year and a half,” Bobby laughed. “I needed it. I kept saying, ‘I can’t do that, my area won’t support it.’ He said, ‘Yeah, it will.’ And he was right.” Through coaching, Bobby learned the financial side of running a business: understanding his numbers, improving margins, and managing expenses. He later joined The Institute’s Gear Performance Group (GPG), where he continues to learn alongside other top-performing shop owners. That commitment to growth has paid off. Today, Lake Sumter Auto Repair and Transmissions is consistently hitting 20% or more in net profit margins, year after year. “Control your expenses,” Bobby says. “If you’re making money, save some money. You don’t have to spend everything you make.” The improvements were significant. His shop now produces consistent net profits above 20 percent, and his team works with stability and confidence.

A Growing Legacy

In 2024, Bobby expanded, opening a second location, a smaller five-bay shop that he’s been steadily turning around. “It didn’t have the best reputation,” he admitted, “but we’re changing that.” His new manager, also enrolled in The Institute’s coaching program, is learning fast. “He’s so excited, sometimes I have to rein him in,” Bobby said. “But that’s a good problem to have.” Between his two shops, Bobby now employs a diverse team of technicians and service advisors, and he’s developed equally diverse pay plans to keep them motivated. “No one pay plan is right for every technician,” he explained. “I’ve got hourly techs, guarantee techs, and flat-rate techs. You have to meet people where they are.” His approach balances fairness and flexibility. Veteran techs approaching retirement work part-time, hourly schedules that fit their pace. Younger, high-producing techs thrive under flat rate. And those on guarantee enjoy performance kickers for hitting production goals. “It’s all about empowering your people,” Bobby said. “Let them do what they were hired to do and pay them in a way that makes sense for them.”

Looking Ahead: Planning for the Future

With two thriving locations and his sights set on retirement in the next few years, Bobby’s already thinking about his succession plan, a topic he’s working on with Michael Smith of The Institute. “The previous owner told me, ‘The day you sign the line, start your exit plan,’” Bobby said. “That was the best advice I ever got.” His current managers are interested in buying each location, and Bobby’s ensuring they’re set up to make that transition possible. “We’re laying the groundwork now so they can earn equity and eventually own the business,” he said. “I want them to have what I have.” And when that day comes, Bobby and his wife already have plans. “We bought a motorhome,” he said with a grin. “We’re going to travel the country, see the national parks, and check in on the shops once in a while, just to make sure they’re still doing great.”

Final Thoughts

Bobby Lambert’s story is more than a tale of business success; it’s a testament to perseverance, humility, and the power of continued learning. From sweeping floors to managing two profitable locations, Bobby represents what’s possible when passion meets purpose and when mentorship meets hard work. As he looks toward retirement, one thing’s for sure: Lake Sumter Auto Repair and Transmissions will continue to thrive, powered by the same integrity, curiosity, and craftsmanship that got Bobby started all those years ago.

Bobby Lambert’s journey shows what can happen when a shop owner gets the right support, follows the right systems, and builds a strong network. With coaching, performance groups, and ongoing training, he created profitable shops, empowered his team, and developed a clear path toward retirement.

Your business can follow the same path. The Institute is ready to help you build a shop that performs with confidence, clarity, and long-term stability.

Watch the full podcast to hear Bobby’s story firsthand and learn directly from his experiences.

Podcast Episode Here

Learn more about Lake Sumter Transmissions and Auto Repair by visiting their website.

Lake Sumter Website