In Richmond, Virginia, a group of dedicated employees gather each morning at 7:30 for a morning meeting run by Maaco owner Hanson Butler to review and plan the work for the day.
What is unique about this meeting is the 17-year-old in attendance -- Alshun Smith, a first-year apprentice to veteran body technician Kenrick Cox.
Cox was born in Trinidad and Tobago and moved to the United States 25 years ago. Cox has more than 40 years of experience in the collision repair industry and is considered a master body technician, having learned the trade from his father starting at the age of 11.
Cox is now sharing his knowledge with Smith, who began working at Maaco after graduating from high school this year. Cox is teaching him the skills needed to make complete and proper body repairs, as well as many life skills.
“I’m a strict teacher, and I’m imparting to him that it takes time, patience and attention to detail to do the job right,” Cox said. “Alshun is a fine young man and a quick learner. I’m very impressed with his progress so far.”
At a time when finding new talent is very challenging, Butler’s Maaco facility has found a formula for success that he aims to repeat.
“These are two very special individuals,” said Hanson Butler, owner, Maaco Richmond. “Kendrick has learned everything from A to Z about repairing cars, both here and in Trinidad and Tobago. He had a strong desire to pass that knowledge on to someone new coming into the industry. Alshun is ambitious and more than willing to learn from a master craftsman. It has developed into a great relationship that benefits us all.”
Maaco, America’s body shop and the leader in the $38 billion automotive paint and collision industry, provides opportunities not only for young aspiring technicians but for entrepreneurs who want to benefit from investing in a successful franchise model. Visit Maaco.com to learn more about the benefits of becoming a franchise owner in the Maaco family.
