This statement perfectly captures the spirit of David Lee, the passionate owner of Express Auto Transmission in Baxter Springs, Kansas. Known for its exceptional expertise in fixing problem transmissions, David’s shop exemplifies the convergence of passion, determination, and a strong foundation of proficiency.
David’s passion for transmissions began at the age of 19. Fresh out of high school and eager to dive into the working world, he landed a job at an AAMCO Transmission shop owned by Andy Rutz. For most young men, a job is just a means to an end, a way to pay the bills while figuring out life’s bigger picture – for David, it was an epiphany.
“After about three days working there, I told Andy that the transmission industry was the coolest thing ever and it didn’t even feel like a job,” David recalled with a laugh. “I also told Andy that I would one day own a shop.”
Andy, a seasoned veteran in the auto repair industry, chuckled at David’s enthusiasm. To him, the young man’s dreams seemed naive and far-fetched. Little did he know that David’s words were not just youthful exuberance but a foresight.
Andy believed in old-school, hands-on training. He took the time to properly train his employees, ensuring they understood not just the how but the why behind every repair. This method of training resonated deeply with David, shaping his approach to both learning and teaching in the years to come.
David’s early days at AAMCO were marked by an eager desire to learn. He absorbed knowledge like a sponge, delving into the intricacies of transmission systems. He was particularly fascinated by shift timing and gear engagement, two critical aspects that many mechanics often overlook.
“I was obsessed with understanding how transmissions work,” David stated. “Shift timing and gear engagement became my areas of focus. I wanted to know exactly when and why gears engaged the way they did.”
This deep understanding and curiosity set David apart from his peers. He wasn’t just fixing cars; he was mastering a craft. His ability to diagnose and repair even the most complicated transmission issues earned him a reputation within the shop.
By 2014, David had saved enough money and gained enough confidence to turn his teenage prophecy into reality. On July 5, he purchased an auto repair shop in Baxter Springs and named the business Express Auto Transmission. The acquisition was transacted with a handshake and the hope that the business would be successful. From the outset, his vision was clear – to create a shop that specializes in transmission repairs, offering an unmatched level of expertise and service.
The early days were challenging, as with most any new business venture. David worked long hours, often burning the midnight oil, but his passion was never shaken. His dedication paid off, and word of his exceptional skills spread like wildfire. The business grew rapidly, gaining a reputation for fixing challenging transmissions that other shops couldn’t. “Other shops would send their tough cases to us,” David said proudly. “We became known as the guys that fix stuff.”
David’s success is not just about technical capability but also about his approach to business and customer service. He believes in treating every customer like family, a lesson he learned from Andy Rutz. He takes the time to explain the issues and the repair process to his customers, ensuring they’re informed and comfortable with the work being done.
“Building trust with customers is as important as fixing their cars,” David explained. “When people know you’re honest and knowledgeable, they’ll keep coming back and they’ll tell their friends.”
Under David’s leadership, Express Auto Transmission has grown from a small local shop to a well-respected name in the region. The shop’s success reflects David’s enthusiasm for transmissions and pursuit of excellence. He has never stopped learning and growing – attending workshops and seminars to stay updated with the latest advancements in the field.
“Continuous learning is key,” David stated. “The automotive industry is always evolving, and you have to evolve with it. I make it a point to attend training sessions and keep myself and my team updated with new technologies and techniques.”
David’s journey is an example of what happens when passion meets purpose. His story is a reminder that dreams, no matter how lofty, can become reality with hard work, dedication, and a belief in oneself.
“I always knew this is what I wanted to do,” David reflects. “Owning a shop was my dream, but it was the love for the work that made it possible. Every day, I wake up excited to go to work because I get to do what I love.”
David’s team at Express Auto Transmission is proof of his principle of hands-on, comprehensive training. One standout is Hunter Barnett, a builder who has been with the shop for three and a half years. Hunter started working at the age of 16 with no prior knowledge of transmissions. David took him under his wing, working side by side with him. By the time Hunter graduated high school in May 2023, he had become a highly efficient builder. To celebrate his achievement and commitment, David bought Hunter a toolbox, benchmarking his transition to a full-time builder.
The shop’s R&R techs, Christian Mitzner and Timmy Ray, are integral to the team’s success. Christian has been with the shop for two years, while Timmy joined a year and a half ago after being a loyal customer for almost a decade. Their dedication and skills contribute significantly to the shop’s reputation.
Les, the “office guy,” brings a unique dynamic to the team. Retired but far from idle, Les loves to help answer phones and keep morale high. His background includes owning a parts store for 54 years, giving him a wealth of knowledge and experience that benefits the entire team.
David wears many hats at Express Auto Transmission. He not only trains his team and builds transmissions but also manages the everyday tasks of running the business. His involvement with the community is also noteworthy. He enjoys teaching transmission diagnostics and repair at local auto tech schools, encouraging younger generations to explore the complexities of electrical and transmission systems.
David’s passion extends beyond the walls of his shop into the industry itself. He actively engages with other shop owners in the area, participating in bi-monthly seminars that draw around 50 technicians. These seminars are a platform for sharing knowledge, discussing industry advancements, and fostering a sense of community among local auto repair professionals.
In his downtime, David enjoys fishing and working on developing valve body solutions in his shop. This year, he and his team are excited to attend the ATRA EXPO at AAPEX/ SEMA in Las Vegas, where they will continue their education and stay at the forefront of the industry.
David Lee’s story truly exemplifies Steve Jobs’ belief, “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” His journey from a teenager with a dream to a respected business owner is a beacon of inspiration for anyone willing to follow their passion and work tirelessly to achieve their goals. Through his passion and dedication, David has turned his love for transmissions into a thriving business that continues to inspire and lead in the automotive industry.
