World Class Wednesday: Brennan McNabb's mind for the mechanical
Earning the title of Automotive Service Excellence World Class Technician is no small accomplishment. To be recognized as World Class, these individuals have obtained ASE certification in 22 specialty areas: A1-A8 (automotive), T1-T8 (medium/heavy truck), B2-B5 (collision repair), and L1-L2 (advanced).
Not only is achieving certification in these areas impressive, but becoming World Class is no small feat. As of 2025, only 2,000 technicians have achieved World Class status.
In this Q&A, Motor Age sat down with Brennan McNabb — an ASE World Class Technician at City Utilities of Springfield in Springfield, Montana — to learn more about his journey in the automotive industry and how gaining World-Class status has helped advance his career.
Motor Age: Please introduce yourself and tell us about your experience in the automotive industry.
McNabb: I have spent over 13 years in automotive repair. I specialize in electrical diagnostics and failure analysis, and have worked on everything from lawn mowers to full-size excavators. I achieved ASE World Class status at age 34 in 2025.
Motor Age: What's the most memorable repair you've ever completed?
McNabb: I can't think of a specific repair, but at my previous job, I was a trash truck mechanic. With that comes a lot of innovative and creative repairs to keep those trucks on the road.
Motor Age: Tell us one thing about you that we can't guess from your certifications.
McNabb: I really enjoy older mechanical stuff. It's amazing the things that were accomplished before electronics. If it is pre-electronic and for sale, it's hard for me to say no.
Motor Age: What automotive technology trend are you most excited about and most concerned about?
McNabb: I'm really excited about the different fuels that will be used going forward, whether it is electric, hydrogen, or hybrid. I'm concerned about all the extra technology that is becoming too convenient, and customers don't always understand what that brings with it.
Motor Age: How has ASE certification helped advance your career?
McNabb: At my current job, it has helped with advancement into higher job classifications, and at previous jobs, it has helped me get the job in the first place.