AASP-MN Member Profile: Schmitt Automotive Repair, Rochester

by Kaitlyn Gavidia

Amongst the hustle and bustle of downtown Rochester sits Schmitt Automotive Repair ready to tend to locals’ and passersby’s every need.

Founded nearly a decade ago by Tim Schmitt, the shop occupies a historic building that has been recently recognized as a landmark by the city, exuding charm with its 1930s art-deco style architecture. 

Schmitt’s journey into the automotive industry began humbly. After graduating high school and finding himself unfulfilled in a grocery store job, he seized an opportunity at a salvage yard from one of his dad’s friends. “He told my dad he was always looking for dismantlers and people to help out, so I figured it was as great a job as any.” Having an already established interest in cars, thanks to his dad, it was an easy decision to make the switch. “Growing up, my dad saved money by fixing cars and I always helped him out. I went from holding the flashlight to actually helping pull the engine and that kind of stuff,” he reminisces. 

Working as a dismantler for 10 years laid the foundation for his career in auto mechanics. In 2014, when the current shop location became available for sale, Schmitt saw his opportunity to step into entrepreneurship. He transformed the existing facility into Schmitt Automotive Repair. Under his leadership, the shop evolved from its early days, when it was predominantly focused on tires and alignment, to its current comprehensive service offerings.

Today, the shop is renowned for its ability to handle repairs on all makes and models, from routine maintenance like oil changes to complex engine and transmission work. “Customers can come here for an oil change and leave with their suspension fixed too. If there is an issue that needs to be diagnosed and repaired, we can do all that in one trip!” This approach not only saves time for customers but also ensures they receive thorough, reliable service. 

Pushing their commitment to provide only exceptional customer service is his accompanying team. 

Mechanic Raen See brings 20 years of experience to the shop. His expertise spans a wide range of tasks, having worked on a lot of different cars throughout his career. Lane Becke is a newer mechanic who has quickly been able to develop his skills. Working on his own vehicles during weekends has contributed to Becker’s growing reputation for quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. Together, the two deliver precise and effective automotive repairs. Most recently, Cesar Montero-Zavala has come on board, bringing 15 years of mechanic experience. 

 To keep everyone up to speed, Schmitt encouraged and paid for employees to attend evening training seminars. “We’re partners with O’Reilly Auto Parts, and especially before COVID-19, we did a lot of evening seminars, and I encouraged the guys to be ASE-certified. Unfortunately, the pandemic put a crimp in a lot of that training, but we’ve been starting to get back into it. All the guys here have a decent base of knowledge to begin with, so it’s just been a matter of keeping them up on new technology.” To do so, Schmitt does his best to keep the equipment in the shop up to date.

Located in downtown Rochester, the shop is situated just two blocks away from the Mayo Clinic. “We’re in a convenient location to work for their employees,” Schmitt says. “The hospital gets a lot of out of town visitors too, and because of that, at least a couple times a week, there will be someone whose car breaks down on the way there. We offer a close and convenient place where they can have their car fixed, deal with their emergency, and still make their appointments.” 

Schmitt Automotive Repair faces challenges common to the industry, with Schmitt noting the consequences of economic fluctuations and access to affordable health insurance for employees. “It would be good if there was a way to get medical insurance that caters to mechanics.” He hopes that industry associations like AASP-MN can advocate for solutions to these issues and provide support and resources crucial for small businesses like his own. “One issue I see is being able to afford to bring in good talent and provide them with a good pay package.”

As a newer AASP-MN member, Schmitt reports that joining the Alliance has proven beneficial by providing networking opportunities, access to specialized training, and discounted services. “It keeps us updated on new technologies and industry standards,” he notes. “For instance, there was a training session on ‘What to do with an abandoned car,’ and that situation occasionally pops up, so it was a good resource for me and my guys. All those questions you didn’t know you needed to ask…can be found through the association.” Membership ensures the safety of Schmitt’s technicians and fosters a safer and more informed environment. 

Choosing the auto industry has provided Schmitt with rewards that he knows he wouldn’t have found in other career paths. “When I was younger, I explored various fields, but it became clear that the auto industry was where I truly belong and where I intend to stay until retirement.” His early experiences with his father were pivotal. “My dad was an engineer, and I inherited a bit of that ‘engineering knack’ which has translated well into auto repair.” Understanding the mechanics and technical aspects early on allowed him to develop a deep appreciation for the intricacies of automotive repair.

Looking ahead, Schmitt remains committed to the growth of his shop and its community impact. The recent landmark designation for the shop’s historic building underscores its cultural significance and deep-rooted ties to Rochester. “It’s an honor to be recognized for preserving local history,” he reflects. As Schmitt Automotive Repair approaches its milestone 10-year anniversary this September, he remains optimistic about the future as he continues to cement the shop’s role amongst community members. 

Want more? Check out the September 2024 issue of AASP-MN News!