Tech Pioneers by Niello: Crafting Elite Tech Geniuses
In the heart of Sacramento, California, The Niello Co., a renowned dealership group, is leading the charge in transforming the role of auto technicians to meet the challenges posed by increasingly complex cars and the emergence of electric vehicles (EVs).
At the helm of this change is Casey Smith, the assistant service manager at Niello's BMW store. Smith, along with Brad Hollingsworth, shop foreman at Niello's Volkswagen dealership, are integral parts of this evolving landscape. Both Smith and Hollingsworth express a strong commitment to their roles and have no plans to leave soon.
The Niello Co. addresses the evolving technician role by adopting a combination of apprenticeships, structured continuous education, and mentorship focused on the latest automotive technologies and the growing complexity of electric vehicles. This approach is reflected in their career development initiatives, such as the session titled "How We Make Superstar Techs."
Andrew Wright, managing partner of Vinart Dealerships, echoes this emphasis on in-house mentoring programs. He shares that their mentoring program has been successful in finding new technicians who will have great careers. The Vinart Dealerships mentoring program is a multi-step initiative that pairs apprentices with senior technicians.
Rick Niello, president of the Niello group, underscores The Niello Co.'s mission to treat customers and employees with unyielding integrity. This mission is reflected in their approach to technician career development, which offers a defined, clear path for growth.
The minds of the technicians are valued as the most important tool at The Niello Co. Aptitude and attitude are seen as key assets of successful technicians, according to Robert Pane, service manager at a Niello Volvo store. Pane credits The Niello Co. for arranging prospective technician visits to his dealership.
Mark Isakson, a technician at Niello's Audi store, has witnessed colleagues climb the career-development ladder through ongoing training. Isakson emphasizes the importance of providing technicians with a clear career path, a sentiment shared by Hollingsworth at Niello's Volkswagen dealership.
The Niello Co. places a significant emphasis on people and training. They employ about 750 people and operate a BMW store, among other dealerships. The Swedish automaker also arranges prospective technician visits to Niello dealerships, as mentioned by Rick Niello.
In a nutshell, The Niello Co. is setting a precedent in the automotive industry by investing in their technicians' growth and development, ensuring they are equipped to handle the complexities of modern and future vehicles. This commitment to continuous learning and mentorship is crucial in shaping the next generation of superstar auto technicians.
- Given the focus on electric vehicles (EVs) and the increasingly complex cars, The Niello Co. is prioritizing technology education in their career and self-development initiatives.
- The adoption of continuous education, apprenticeships, and mentorship programs by The Niello Co. not only reflects their dedication to the latest automotive technologies but also serves as a valuable asset in the education-and-self-development of their technicians, preparing them for their careers.
