Generationally SpeakingAugust 2014
See what makes us different … and the same!
Rad Air Complete Car Care and Tire Centers has 12 locations in Cleveland, Ohio, and its surrounding areas. Its owner, Andy Fiffick, credits the shop’s growth and success to three golden rules: Fix the vehicle right the first time – always charge a fair price – and make sure the customer is happy and satisfied. Along the way, Fiffick’s daughter, Brittany Gumucio, joined the staff as marketing manager after getting her MBA and gaining some marketing and customer service experience.
Andy Fiffick, Baby Boomer
What is one piece of advice your parents gave you that still sticks with you today?
Be honest and sincere.
What is the best decision you have ever made?
Opening my business.
Drink of choice?
Iced tea.
How did you get into the automotive service business?
Dad was a motor pool sergeant in the Army, a diesel truck mechanic, shop owner and had a long stint with Ford Motor Co. I learned to love being a gearhead at the age of 6, working along with my dad.
Best vacation you’ve ever had?
Any vacation with the family is great!
What do you drive?
2013 Ford F-150 FX4.
If you had a free weekend by yourself, what would you do?
Take the Harley for a long ride.
What piece of advice would you give a young person who is graduating from high school today?
Don’t be afraid to work and volunteer to help and learn whenever you can.
What do you like most about your work?
Dealing with our clients and our great staff.
What is one thing you wish you knew how to do?
Fly a plane! Someday!
Speaking on behalf of your generation, how do you see the future of the industry?
Tough times ahead in finding and securing great staff. Something has been lost in younger generations who don’t seem to value education, ethics, morality, pride/ ownership in doing a great job, and overall work ethic.
Brittany Gumucio
Generation Y
What is one piece of advice your parents gave you that still sticks with you today?
Do what you’re passionate about and you will never work a day in your life.
What is the best decision you have ever made?
Getting my MBA and getting married!
Drink of choice?
Water! Or red wine for fun.
How did you get into the automotive service business?
I wanted to work with my dad and thought I could help him out. After a few years in customer service and marketing, he let me join him!
Best vacation you have ever been on?
A family trip to London.
What do you drive?
2009 Ford Escape.
If you had a free weekend by yourself, what would you do?
Dinner and drinks with my husband and lots of relaxation time.
What piece of advice would you give a young person who is graduating from high school today?
Don’t be afraid to take the time you need to find what you love and get lots of experience!
What do you like most about your work?
Getting to work with lots of nice, talented people!
What is one thing you wish you knew how to do?
Ballroom dance.
Speaking on behalf of your generation, how do you see the future of the industry?
I think vehicles will continue to advance, therefore technicians and shops must continue training and education to stay ahead of the game.
