FenderBender is pleased to announce new columnist Shey Knight, who will be contributing monthly to FenderBender.com on topics related to shop independence. To better introduce Shey and what you can expect from his columns, we caught up with him for five quick questions:
FenderBender: How long have you been working in collision repair and what do you do now?
Shey Knight: I started in this industry in 1985 as an estimator and floor sweeper. I worked part time while completing my college degree through 1986. I came back to the industry full time in 1990 after working in banking and real estate. Currently, I co-own Autosport Bodyworks and Vinyl Guys (a vinyl wrap design & installation company) and I am a licensed independent insurance agent. I also am a part time professional sand sculptor. Basically, I have 3 1/2 full time jobs.
FB: What is it about collision repair that has kept you in the industry?
SK: I love the people in our industry. Most of them are hard working, salt of the earth, folks. I also love pleasing people and love to see happy customers. I also like that it's an ever changing industry and I love challenging insurers to benefit our industry!
FB: What do you think are some of the biggest challenges facing shop owners today?
SK: Keeping up with ever changing technology. It's very time consuming and expensive.
FB: What kinds of topics can readers expect you to cover in the months to come?
SK: I am highly motivated by shop independence, operating without interruptions and repairing vehicles correctly so anything going on in our industry regarding these matters will probably prompt a response from me.
FB: When not working, what keeps you busy?
SK: If I am not working or traveling somewhere, then I am at church or working in my yard, boating, riding my motorcycle, hiking, canoeing, or spending time with our 2-year-old granddaughter.
