Joe Wiedrich

Who do you trust the most? Family.

What is the best decision you have ever made? Having our son, Paxton.

Best book you’ve ever read? I don’t read the book – I watch the movie!

How did you get into the automotive service business? Fascination with cars my entire life. Thought I’d make it my career.

Is there a professional goal that you’re striving for that you’d like to share with us? Having my own shop someday.

What do you drive? Lots of Fords!

If you had a free weekend by yourself, what would you do? Work in the garage on my show cars.

What piece of advice would you give a young person who is graduating from high school today? Pick a career that you are passionate about and can see yourself doing long term.

If you could change one thing about the field in which you work – either mechanical or collision repair (or both) – what would it be? The mistrust and fear that customers seem to have toward the automotive repair industry.

What is one electronic gadget that you cannot live without? My iPhone.

Speaking on behalf of your generation, how do you see the future of the industry? Becoming more complicated and involved because of the advancements in technology.

Gil Bockelman

Who do you trust the most? People with whom I’ve developed trusting relationships.

What is the best decision you have ever made? To resign my position at Southern Indiana Gas and Electric Company and pursue my own business.

Best book you’ve ever read? “Not A Fan,” which is a Christian book about what it means to really be a follower of Christ.

How did you get into the automotive service business? After retiring from my business, I only did volunteer work and my automotive hobby work for about two years. I was approached by Menke’s to work part time doing routine maintenance. About nine months ago, I was afforded the opportunity to become one of Menke’s service advisers.

Is there a professional goal that you’re striving for that you’d like to share with us? My primary professional goal at this stage of my life is to help Menke’s become more profitable.

What do you drive? It depends. Primarily a GMC pickup, but my wife and I enjoy owning and driving Corvettes.

If you had a free weekend by yourself, what would you do? I enjoy smoking and barbecuing meats. It is relaxing while still accomplishing something.

What piece of advice would you give a young person who is graduating from high school today? Work to be the best you can be. Accept responsibility for your actions. Never stop learning.

If you could change one thing about the field in which you work – either mechanical or collision repair (or both) – what would it be? Change the perception that being an automotive technician is a lowly profession.

What is one electronic gadget you cannot live without? Computer.

Speaking on behalf of your generation, how do you see the future of the industry? The future is very bright for those who are willing to invest in leading-edge technology and in top-notch personnel. For those not willing to do the above, there is no future.