In households across the country, being an automotive technician is more than just a job — it’s a way of life, handed down from one generation to the next. The legacy often begins in the family garage, not a classroom, where the passion for turning wrenches, diagnosing problems by sound, and rebuilding engines is born. This tradition is built on pride, passion, and a deep respect for the craft.

For many young technicians, their first exposure to auto repair doesn’t come from vocational training, but from watching a parent or grandparent elbow-deep in an engine bay. These early experiences — passing a tool, observing a brake job, or simply listening to stories — plant the seeds for both skill and passion. It’s knowledge passed down through shared time, trust, and love.

One place where this tradition thrives every day is Johnson Engine Service in Salem, Ore. Since opening in 1996, this shop has proudly served the Salem community for nearly 30 years. Specializing in diesel and gasoline repairs, performance upgrades, and fleet services, Johnson Engine Service is more than a shop — it’s a family operation. At the helm is Shelby Johnson, both owner and technician. His wife, Robin, manages the office, and their son Keith works as a technician. In addition, Joe, a technician who has been with them since Day 1, is now considered family by the Johnsons. Over the years, their three daughters have also spent time working in the business, making this truly a full-family endeavor.

Of course, working with family isn’t without its challenges. “There were definitely growing pains,” Shelby admits. “When your son works for you, there's that mindset — ‘I’m the boss’s son, I can do what I want.’” Clear communication became essential. Shelby had to draw boundaries, ensuring Keith understood he was an employee, not just family. With time and maturity, Keith embraced that, and as Robin shares, “We made an early decision not to talk about work at home.” That separation helped maintain harmony and made the working relationship even stronger. In the end, the rewards of seeing and working with loved ones every day far outweigh the bumps along the way.

Keith began at the shop by cleaning floors, but nearly 30 years later, he’s a master technician skilled in diagnostics, engine management, and fabrication. As Shelby and Robin look ahead to retirement, it’s clear the business — and the family legacy — is in good hands. Keith credits much of his growth to his father’s mentorship. “He taught me three irreplaceable things: knowledge, the right way to repair something, and how to tackle the challenges of running a business.” That training paid off when Shelby faced health issues and had to step away. The shop didn’t miss a beat. “The business ran smoothly, we were profitable, and it showed Keith’s growth,” Shelby says. “From a kid pushing a broom to someone who can run the whole operation — I’m extremely proud.”

The trust that comes from working with family is unmatched. For Shelby, it means peace of mind. “Most shop owners can’t take time off without their phones ringing. I can go on a two-week vacation and not get a single call. I took a fishing trip with other shop owners — they were on their phones all day. My phone didn’t ring once. One of them asked, ‘How come you didn’t answer your phone?’ I said, ‘Why should I? Everyone knows what to do.’”

The Family Who Works Together Grows Together

Automotive work is a hands on trade that can’t be learned from books alone. “All our fabrication is done in-house. It’s a fun industry,” Shelby says. “I taught my son everything — from tuning Weber carburetors to setting up EFI, rebuilding transmissions, and even TIG welding. He picked up welding like he’s been doing it for 40 years.” Still, the Johnsons embrace formal education. They’ve taken part in CTI training for years and stayed involved with dealership training programs. “Technology is changing every day. Having solid resources like ALLDATA is crucial. I’ve probably been with them the longest — back when you could buy the system outright,” Shelby jokes.

Even the way the shop uses technology shows generational differences. “I need a computer and a keyboard,” Shelby says. “But Keith? He pulls up solutions on his phone in seconds.” Watching how younger technicians adapt and find new shortcuts is a reminder of how the trade continues to evolve. But perhaps the most meaningful part of the Johnsons' story is the emotional bond that comes from working together. Sharing time in the garage isn’t just work — it’s quality time. “Watching our son grow over the years has been amazing,” Robin reflects. “Our relationship has grown stronger, and having the support of the entire family has made all of this possible. Lots of love to them all.”

For families like the Johnsons, this work is about more than making a living. It’s about preserving a legacy — honoring the lessons of those who came before and preparing the next generation to carry the torch. Keith puts it best: “He’s my best friend. I love being around him. He’s incredibly smart, and I owe everything to him. I wouldn’t change a thing. My dad’s been an incredible teacher. Love you, Dad.” Being an automotive technician isn’t just a trade. For families like the Johnsons, it’s a tradition — forged in oil-stained garages, strengthened by years of experience, and passed down with pride. In a rapidly changing world, places like Johnson Engine Service are a reminder that some of the best things in life — hard work, family, and legacy — never go out of style.