“The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack in will.” – Vince Lombardi
Located in Marcy, New York, lies a gem that’s been the go-to spot for car buffs for over four decades. Professional Transmission and Converter isn’t just a shop; it’s a legend, born from the dreams of a daring 21-year-old, Rick Morris, and his seasoned wingman, Joe Giannotti, back in the golden year of 1981. Fast forward to today, and they’re still revving up engines with more passion than ever.
Rick, Joe, and their dedicated team aren’t just any crew; they’re wizards in the garage, living and breathing cars with a side of unshakeable determination. They’ve been part of ATRA for 20+ years, which means they’re not just good at what they do; they’re the crème de la crème.
Take a step into their kingdom – an enviable 26,000 square feet of sheer automotive genius. We’re talking top-notch CNC machining, torque converter innovation, driveline fixes, and an arsenal of machined parts that could make any car geek weak in the knees. But what truly differentiates the company, and the team is their solid gold integrity and a commitment to making customers happy.
“Imagine working on your own car – that’s how we approach each job,” Rick states. Every job, big or small, gets VIP treatment, focusing on quality and service that’s tailored to meet the customer’s needs.
Their ride to success hasn’t always been smooth roads and green lights. In 2004, a devastating fire nearly turned their dreams into ashes. However, Rick, Joe, and their resilient squad refused to throw in the towel. Battling the aftermath, they spent a year bouncing back, setting up shop in three separate temporary locations, all while keeping their spirits high and wrenches bending.
Their perseverance paid off. Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, the crew built back even better, brick by brick, proving that true grit and a love for vehicles conquer all.
Today, with a dream team of 27 automotive enthusiasts, each member plays a crucial part in driving the excellence that the shop is respected for. The staff members cover a variety of positions, spanning three shifts, ensuring the smooth operation of the business around the clock. Their bond goes beyond the workshop; they’re a family, united by a shared passion for cars and quality service.
Joe’s versatility shines through as he continues to work as a builder while also lending a helping hand throughout the shop. Rick, wearing multiple hats, seamlessly manages workflow, business finances, and ensures top-notch quality control. Together, their combined expertise and dedication keep Professional Transmission running like a well-oiled machine.
Rick’s leadership isn’t just confined to the garage; it stretches far and wide. He’d shaped policies as a board member and treasurer for TCRA for a solid decade, all while mentoring young gearheads at the Morrisville Auto School. This influence ripples through the community and the automotive world. Plus, as members of the BBB, the local Chamber of Commerce, TCRA, ATRA, and ATSG, their impact is widespread.
Rick’s connection with ATRA also runs deeper than just professional affiliations. Before ATRA’s Technical Director, Keith Clark began his tenure with the association, he was a valued customer of Professional Transmission and Converter, seeking out their expertise in torque converters. This longstanding relationship underscores the shop’s reputation as a trusted authority in the automotive industry.
Beyond servicing individual clients, the company also plays a pivotal role in supplying converters and Left to Right: Ivan (2 years), Stephen (1 month), Dan K. (22 years) machined parts to other shops across the Northeast region, spanning from Boston to Buffalo. Their commitment to quality and reliability has earned them widespread recognition, further solidified by establishing a warehouse in Southbridge, Massachusetts, which serves as a central hub for their operations and distribution network.
Rick’s path through the automotive world has been a collaborative affair, thanks to a tight-knit crew of mentors, now friends, who run their own gigs. They’re like a think-tank, constantly swapping tips, brainstorming ideas, and backing each other up. This group of folks are Rick’s rock, sharing Ernie (23 years) wisdom from the trenches of business ownership that’s completely shaped how he runs his company. Thanks to them, Rick’s mastered not just the nuts and bolts of the business, but also the big values like perseverance, tenacity, and always seeking improvement. Their mentorship has been key in crafting Rick’s leadership style, contributing hugely to his personal and the company’s success.
It’s not just about transmissions and converters; it’s about camaraderie, community involvement, and a shared passion for cars that fuels this remarkable team. Under Rick’s guidance, inspired by a circle of close friends and his mentors, Rick and Joe have molded Professional Transmission and Converter into more than just a shop. It’s a place where integrity, perseverance, and the quest for continuous improvement drive are the culture for everything they do.
Besides his automotive ventures, Rick’s also involved in his cattle ranching operation, showing his diverse interests and ambitious spirit. As I was conducting the interview for this shop profile, Rick was out of town tending to a client for his cattle ranching business, further highlighting the multifaceted nature of his endeavors.
Looking ahead, Rick envisions significant growth and technological upgrades to maintain the company’s leading position in the industry. However, managing a thriving business alongside his passion for beef cattle ranching presents a genuine challenge. “Yeah, “Yeah, I’m juggling a lot,” Rick remarks with a chuckle, emphasizing the dedication required to successfully navigate this balancing act.
In the epic saga of Professional Transmission and Converter, Vince Lombardi’s famous words hit home hard. You see, their journey isn’t just about turning wrenches; it’s about guts, glory, and a whole lot of grit. From battling through fiery infernos to conquering the odds, Rick, Joe and their crew have shown that it’s not just muscle or smarts that get you there-it’s the sheer will to win. Every transmission fixed, every bounce back from setbacks-it’s all fueled by that unshakeable determination.
So, as they rev up for the next leg of their adventure, remember this: in the wild world of auto repair, it’s not just about what you know or how strong you are—it’s about how badly you want it. And trust me, these guys want it bad.
