Automotive Recycling July-August 2023 by AutomotiveRecyclersAssociation

July-August 2023 TM

Published by the

Automotive Recyclers Association

Dreams Coming True Jose Angel Valdez, Operations Manager, Daurio Auto and Truck, at right and in inset with his wife Maxine at their new home.

How One Legacy Employee Found a Greater Purpose in the Workplace ARA – PROTECTING THE INDUSTRY FOR 80 YEARS!

July-August 2023

Volume 43 // No. 4

CELEBRATING 80 YEARS!

® – Recycled Original Equipment ®

Comments 4 // Direction Shan Lathem

6 // Horizon Sandy Blalock

10 // ARA 80th Annual Convention & Expo Sponsors Inventory

Hiring

News & Views

8 // S HiFT in Perspective

42 // It’s a Different Kind of Race: Slow Then Fast

18 // Industry

A new program gives ARA and CAR members access to inventory, at best pricing. Discover how to participate in this vehicle retirement program that is good for the consumer and great for automotive recycling’s image.

Annual Meeting

30 // Connecting to the Grid

The best strategy to take in finding and keeping the ideal employees is to hire slow and fire fast. // By Jessica Lorello, PHR, Employers Advantage, LLC

Management

44 // Assessing The Best

ARA’s Annual Convention celebrates 80 years of protecting the industry and brings auto recyclers from around the world together to recharge and connect.

Employment assessments are one tool that auto recyclers can use to identify the ideal candidates to fill roles in their companies.

Annual Exposition

Interview

36 // Expertise on the Grid The 80th Annual ARA Exposition brings the industry together to network with industry vendors.

12 // Wheel Jim Henry

22 // Expert

Wayne Colonna

24 // H.O.W.

Maura Keller

26 // Expert

Edmund Schwenk

28 // Coaching

Carlos Barboza

// By Maura Keller

47 // Recycler to Watch: A Dream Come True

53 // Advertiser Index 54 // Snapshot

How one Daurio Auto and Truck employee found his place in America — and in the family. // By Caryn Smith

Check out our new website AutoRecyclingNow.com! AUTOMOTIVE RECYCLING (ISSN 1058-9376) is published bi-monthly by the Automotive Recyclers Association, 9113 Church Street, Manassas, VA 20110-5456 USA. Phone: (571) 208-0428, Fax: (571) 208-0430 Internet: www.a-r-a.org. Periodicals postage at Manassas, VA, and additional mailing offices. Copyright © 2023 ARA. All rights reserved. Materials may not be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher. Statements of fact and opinion are the responsibility of the authors alone and do not necessarily imply any opinion on the part of the officers, directors, staff, or the members of the Automotive Recyclers Association. MEMBER SUBSCRIPTIONS: U.S.–An additional member subscription is $20/year. NON-U.S.–An additional subscription is USD$60/year airmail. NON-MEMBER SUBSCRIPTIONS: U.S.–A subscription is $40/year. NON-U.S.–A subscription is USD$85/year airmail. INSTITUTIONAL: A subscription for U.S.-based libraries/non-profits is $20/year. Postmaster: Send change of address to Automotive Recycling magazine, 9113 Church Street, Manassas, VA 20110-5456 USA.

Automotive Recycling

On the Cover: Tara Patty Photography

Find us on

/AutomotiveRecycling July-August 2023 // 3

Direction By Shan Lathem • ARA President

CELEBRATING 80 YEARS!

Going It Alone Isn’t An Option

here is something I really enjoy about my career in automotive recycling, and I am sure many of you will agree. There are few industries like ours that collaborates with our competitors. We may not share client lists or sales tactics, but we will share experiences about most anything else to help another recycler. My business is better because I know you! Many of you have shared from platforms and hallways about what you know, and it has inspired me to want to know more and share it with others as well. This is the reason I got involved in leadership of the FADRA state association and now with ARA. As a second-generation auto recycler, it isn’t good enough to do things the way my parents did. I must keep up with the times, and that means heading into unknown territory, like learning more AI and EVs, which makes me nervous if I am being honest. Yet, I know I have people I can lean on, ask questions of, or just hang around to inspire me to make the necessary changes I need to grow my business the way I want to grow it. Maybe you too are excited for more opportunity, but a little nervous of the impact it will ultimately have. Together, we can figure it out. When you think about our 80-year history, being celebrated at the 80th Annual ARA Convention, just imagine the number of family businesses that have shared information to bring us to where we are today. It is remarkable that we have been able to maintain this industry through entrepreneurially minded men and women – trailblazers in their own generations. There is no manual to run an auto recycling business, and no two businesses are alike. This is unique, and yet we manage to run successful businesses. Or maybe this is what makes us successful – our ingenuity. We must also acknowledge the people we employ who keep the business running every day. While we are working on the business, they are working in the business, to keep it moving. Think about the number of employees, and their families, that have benefited from working in our industry over the last 80 years. While we complain about the lack of talent available to us, many of us have legacy employees, who have worked most or all their career in our business. How lucky are we to have an industry where this still occurs. For me, I want to share about Sandra Adams. Sandra started with me as a title clerk, moved into bookkeeping

4 // July-August 2023

– Recycled Original Equipment ®

with no experience, but always had a drive to learn and accept any challenge that was presented to her. As bookkeeper, she thrived and eventually became the Office Manager. When I was invited to become part of the EC for ARA, I knew my time at Cocoa Auto Salvage would be limited during my term, so I needed to hire a manager. Sandra helped me in the interview process, and we hired a few people that just didn’t work out. We were both frustrated. Eventually, I looked at her and asked, ‘do you want to try this? I think you can do it!’ Hesitantly, she accepted the position. Under her leadership, the business grew by leaps and bounds. She learned things she never thought she would know. I watched her grow professionally, as she took great care of the business like it was her own. I can trust Sandra completely; and I know that if other employees, the business, or I need her help, she is there without question. She is one of the smartest people I know and isn’t afraid of hard work or taking on a challenge. What she was able to accomplish even surprised her. If it wasn’t for her stepping up and taking on that role, I would not have been able to fulfill my responsibilities in my seat with ARA. Sandra has been with me 23 years. Earlier this year, she decided to step back, and gave up the day-to-day operations management, but she is still and will continue to be an integral part of Cocoa Auto Salvage. No one person can do this business alone, and trusted employees like Sandra should be valued for their contributions to the overall industry. They make it work. As we celebrate our 80 years at the Annual Convention, remember that it is one place that you see everything that is new and changing. Stay on top of it, and don’t get left behind. If you are new to ARA, the annual meeting can be overwhelming at first. There is so much going on, so many people, so much information. I encourage you to engage and put what you learn into practice. It makes a huge difference in the trajectory of your business. Let’s keep making history together!

Shan Lathem 2022-23 ARA President Automotive Recycling

Horizon By Sandy Blalock • ARA Executive Director

CELEBRATING 80 YEARS!

Industry Events That Keep On Giving

I hope to see you in Kansas City!

6 // July-August 2023

’ve attended many industry conventions, conferences and expositions and always found them to be highly beneficial for my business and myself for a variety of reasons. I would like to share some of the great benefits and experiences that are possible. Yes, it does cost money to attend conventions and conferences. Just consider the cost as an investment! Deals from vendors, new contacts, and inspired employees can do a lot to help your small business grow, and auto recycling industry events can be a great place to get all of these things. I always found that the networking at industry events brings together a diverse group of professionals, including experts, potential customers, partners, and competitors. Networking allows us to build meaningful relationships, exchange ideas, and explore potential collaborations. When I was new to the industry I needed to know more about it. Seminars, presentations, and keynote speeches delivered by industry leaders and experts helped to fulfill some of my needs. These sessions provide valuable insights, updates on the latest trends and technologies, and opportunities to enhance our knowledge and skills. Of course, exposure to new products and services related to our industry provides some of the best learning opportunities – and they keep expanding every year. Attending events allows us to discover innovative solutions, technologies, and advancements that can benefit business operations. In addition to being introduced to some of the leading vendors, industry events can help you learn about new and more efficient ways of doing things. Are you frustrated with an aspect of work and even though you’ve tried, you just can’t figure out a solution? Conferences and trade shows help identify issues and get rid of them, because you learn from others who have probably experienced the same thing! They provide an opportunity to conduct market research and gain insights into the current market landscape. Learning about competitors’ products, business strategies, and customer preferences can help businesses make informed decisions. Exhibiting at an industry exposition can significantly enhance a company’s visibility and brand recognition. It offers a platform to showcase products, services, and expertise to a targeted audience, potentially attracting new customers and partners.

– Recycled Original Equipment ®

Conventions offer a chance to reconnect with existing clients, strengthen relationships, and gain valuable feedback on products and services. Attending industry events can lead to new business opportunities, such as partnerships, joint ventures, and strategic alliances that might not have been possible otherwise. I am often inspired because there’s something special about an event where everyone is there and focused on what they love to do. If I have been feeling a little bit down about the way things are going at work lately, or a little bit worried that your business isn’t meeting its customer’s needs or just want to find a different approach, conferences and trade shows like the ARA 80th Annual Convention and Expo can open up new possibilities and perspective. Engaging in discussions, workshops, and presentations can help professionals grow and expand their knowledge base, improving their overall expertise in the industry. When I was new, I felt one of the best parts of attending auto recycling events was hearing a variety of speakers talk about their journey’s successes and failures. Speakers share about failure, but you also learn how they overcame their obstacles and became a leader in our industry. The most profound thing I learned was that it is okay to fail as long as you learn from that experience and use it to grow. Industry events often present the latest research findings, emerging trends, and future projections, enabling attendees to stay ahead of the curve and anticipate changes in the market. We will have some exciting news to share at this year’s 80th Anniversary ARA Convention and Expo. Overall, auto recycling industry events, whether it is the ARA Convention or your state or regional event, offer members of our unique industry a dynamic platform for networking, learning, business growth, and staying up to date with industry developments. Participating will lead to numerous advantages that can positively impact both you and businesses in the long run. This is your true ROI on the cost of attending. I look forward to seeing you at this year’s exciting 80th Anniversary ARA Convention and Expo. Come learn and share with us so we can all grow and prosper together. Reach Sandy Blalock at sandy@a-r-a.org. Share your thoughts pertaining to the advancement of professional automotive recycling. Your letter could be published in an upcoming issue. Automotive Recycling

in Perspective

very day, we see more headlines about the earth in crisis: growing carbon emissions, overcrowding, the loss of biodiversity in plants and animals and more. We all need a good news injection and a positive story about the environment. We think that this positive story is OUR story. For decades the good work that has been done by auto recyclers on behalf of the planet has been largely missing from conversations about sustainability and environmental stewardship. Auto recycling continues to be the greatest recycling success story never told. While Tesla gobbles up headlines and media focuses on the “EV future,” auto recyclers go about their important business of making the world a cleaner, safer and more sustainable place to live unit by unit. A SHiFT is Happening What does the future look like for ICE vehicles? The journey to cleaner air isn’t achieved overnight and transportation transformation isn’t a single step. Clean air goals aren’t fulfilled by legislatures or automakers, they are met one car at a time. Auto recyclers are a key component and will continue to be for all vehicles produced.

SHiFT Vehicle Retirement InitiativeTM (SHiFT VRI) is a partnership committed to helping consumers and companies RESPONSIBLY RETIRE vehicles with strict environmental protocols from start to finish. The program was created to deliver a trusted resource – ARA and its membership – for reducing carbon footprints. SHiFT allows vehicle owners to “participate” in the recycling of their vehicles while ARA members take advantage of a huge economic opportunity for their businesses.

Why SHiFT? Our customers want this: a) C onsumers are passionate about the environment. b) 7 5 percent of U.S. consumers are concerned about the environmental impact of the products they buy. c) 1 in 2 consumers are willing to pay more for a product branded sustainable. Why Now? Every industry is taking up the mantle; mining, manufacturing, labor unions, associations are all talking about supporting ESG (Environmental Social Governance) goals. To date, professional automobile recycling has been held outside of these conversations. SHiFT allows our members of all sizes to have a plan and measurable contribution to the

SHiFT the Narrative It’s time for professional auto recyclers to take our place in the conversation about clean air and environmental goal setting. In an effort to carve out, count and lead, ARA and the Automotive Recycling Training Institute (ARTI) are proud to announce an ambitious environmental initiative: the SHiFT Vehicle Retirement Initiative.TM 8 // July-August 2023

Automotive Recycling

changes coming our way while seizing the opportunity to increase access to vehicles that may not otherwise hit their yards. SHiFT Will: • Provide ARA members with exclusive access to inventory • Deliver a real and measurable environmental benefit • Provide customers with a direct relationship to professional auto recycling • Engage ARA members • Improve vehicle flow • Amplify ARA and member voices as environmental authorities SHiFT the Carbon Narrative Auto recyclers have pulled the oldest and heaviest polluting vehicles out of circulation for decades, harvesting parts and recycling materials but we’ve done so without tracking the net environmental benefit. SHiFT helps us to do this one car at a time. The timing is perfect, over the last few years the data surrounding the industry’s environmental initiatives has been easier to access. In 2019 the Massachusetts Automotive Recyclers Association commissioned Worcester Polytechnic Institute to perform a study on the environmental benefit of recycling a car. The study highlighted the measurable benefit of auto recycling and a nationwide study is now underway. These measurements are a template of the

We’re excited to launch SHiFT but it’s only the first step. We need ARA members to help us build and grow this program.

work SHiFT will perform. The program will count the net environmental benefit in terms of the carbon avoid through auto recycling. SHiFT should be a source of pride, a nationwide recycling initiative led by America’s most experienced and innovative environmental stewards: professional auto recyclers. SHiFT enables auto recyclers to participate and be a leader in the conversations regarding the future of the transportation industry. Paying It Forward Vehicles coming through the SHiFT program will also influence future generations of auto recyclers. Every vehicle processed supports the ARTI and is invested in future educational and training needs for the industry.

How We SHiFT SHiFT was developed with input from ARA and ARTI leaders over the past year and is a voluntary program for members willing and able to agree to the necessary protocols per unit. How Does It Work? 1. A vehicle comes into the SHiFT funnel from a consumer, fleet or enterprise 2. The SHiFT Opportunity is pushed to member network 3. Members are offered unit at preferred pricing tiers 4. Member accepts or rejects 5. Unit is assigned with a pickup order 6. Unit is picked up and logged in mBid 7. Affidavit must be completed affirming that the engine will not be resold (though parts can be removed and sold) We’re excited to launch SHiFT but it’s only the first step. We need ARA members to help us build and grow this program. The transportation industry is at a pivotal inflection point and in order to ensure professional auto recyclers’ continued role in the life cycle management of all vehicles – ICE and EV – and future economic prosperity, we need to grow and evolve with the industry. Professional auto recyclers actively participating in the processing of end-of-life vehicles utilizing the highest industry acceptable standards will cement a prosperous and sustainable auto recycling industry for generations to come.

https://shift4tomorrow.org Automotive Recycling

July-August 2023 // 9

ARA Officers PRESIDENT Shan Lathem Cocoa Auto Salvage Cocoa, FL shan@cocoaautosalvage.com 1ST VICE PRESIDENT Nick Daurio Daurio Auto Truck Pueblo, CO nick@daurioauto.com

Sponsors

eBay Hollander Car-Part.com GJ Sullivan 366 Processing Global Refining PMR URG Copart PGM of Texas Arrowhead General Insurance Agency, Inc. CCC WEN Industries United Catalyst Corp Peddle Parts Trader LLC Wolfpack Enterprises

Agenda Premiere Partner Premiere Partner Diamond Diamond Gold Gold Gold Gold Silver Silver Associate Associate Associate Associate Associate Associate Associate

HOTEL INFORMATION Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center 2345 McGee Street Kansas City, MO 64108 816.841.1000 Sheratonkansascityhotel.com

FOR FULL AGENDA, GO TO A-R-A.ORG/CONVENTION. FOLLOW LINKS TO THE OFFICIAL CONVENTION SITE.

Thursday, October 12

Auto Recycling Training Institute Meeting Affiliate Chapters Meeting Annual Convention Educational Programming Committee Interchange Committee Industry Relations Committee Awareness Committee Government Affairs Committee MATR Board/Member Meeting Certification Committee ARA Annual Membership/Board Meeting Opening Keynote Ribbon Cutting & Past President’s Reception/Expo Opening International Networking Reception (by invitation only)

Friday, October 13

New Member Welcome Meeting Welcome, Friday Highlights and Awards General Session: Recycler Keynote Is the U.S. Facing a Shredded Scrap Shortage New CAR Member Success Stories: How & Why Building for the Future – People, Processes, Profit Credit Card Best Practices Panel High Level EV Battery Panel How to Make SHIFT Work for Your Vehicles Needs Self-Service Safety Panel Opportunities and Resources for Today’s Independent Operator Tech Talks: Car-Part.com Einstein/Hotlines Hollander Buddy Automotive EZ Suite Self Service VinMatchPro URG Power DB Networking & Awards Dinner Presidents Hospitality

Saturday, October 14 For the best rate, please secure your reservation through the ARA Hotel Reservations link on the official convention website. Go to a-r-a.org/ convention and follow the links to the site.

You will receive a reservation link within your registration confirmation. Please note: The ARA room block will close on September 15, 2023. Please secure accommodations before this date to ensure the best rates possible.

www.a-r-a.org/convention 34 // July-August 2023

General Session: Recycler Keynote Exposition Open w/Brunch Recycler’s Roundtable Operation EV Panel Do’s & Don’ts of Brokering and Tiering Parts Grading & Inventory Best Practices Self-Service Secrets Second Life Battery Panel Being Your Customer’s First Choice Management by the Numbers Operating a Hybrid Facility Have We Been Doing it Wrong All This Time? Selling Airbags on eBay Motors Do You Understand the Game? Towing & Vehicle Recovery Panel Techniques to Increase Gross Sales Estate Planning & Succession Self-Service: Marketing & Advertising CLOSER: Recap & Takeaways Departure to Facility Tours: Vander Haags and Midway Automotive Recycling

Expertise ON THE GRID

The 80th Annual ARA Exposition brings the industry together to network with these industry vendors attending: 366 Processing Inc. Booth # 201

5115 E. Hwy 80 Somerset, KY 42501 (256) 499-0264 Contact: Lyn Johnston

ljohnston@366processing.com www.366processing.com

Accurate Converter Booth # 301

133 Maple St. Stoughton, MA 02072 (781) 503-3090 Contact: Harrison Balder

harrison@accurateconverter.com www.accurateconverter.com

Advanced Powertrain Solutions Booth # 803

P.O. Box 979 Carrollton, TX 75006 (972) 417-2580 Contact: David Walker

davidwalker@aermfg.com www.aermanufacturing.com

Amwins Program Underwriters Booth # 820

2400 E. Katella Ave., Ste. 500 Anaheim, CA 92653 (714) 221-9570 Contact: Sue Scurti

sue.scurti@amwins.com www.amwins.com

16 via Maria Theresa Manitou Springs, CO 80829 (727) 612-0229 Contact: Julie Cain

mdrews@etereman.com

Auto Data Direct, Inc. Booth # 304

1830 East Park Ave., Ste. 1 Tallahassee, FL 32301 (850) 877-8804 Contact: Roxanne Decker

marketing@add123.com www.add123.com

9113 Church St. Manassas, VA 20110 (571) 208-0428 Contact: Sandy Blalock

Booth # 701

15075 Al-Jon Ave. Ottumwa, IA 52501 (641) 682-4506 Contact: Curt Spry

curt.spry@candcmfg.net www.aljon.com 36 // July-August 2023

jgladd@brocksupply.com www.brocksupply.com

4949 West Brown Deer Rd. Milwaukee, WI 53223 (414) 586-0777 Contact: Megan Drews

Booth # 404

116 Johnny Cake Hill Middletown, RI 02842 (401) 225-5666 Contact: Joseph Hearn

Al-jon Manufacturing, LLC

2150 E. Rio Salado Pkwy. Tempe, AZ 85288 (480) 968-2222 Contact: Jon Ladd

Buddy Automotive Innovations

Automotive Recyclers Association

jhearn@arscars.com www.arscars.com

Booth # 401

ATSG

Advanced Remarketing Services Booth # 914

Brock Supply

Booth # 819

sandy@a-r-a.org www.a-r-a.org

Blue Whale Materials Booth # 216

605 E 14th St. New York, NY 10009 (973) 715-1389 Contact: Ella DeBode

Booth # 523

julie@buddyai.com www.buddyai.com

Car-Part.com Booth # 315

1980 Highland Pike Fort Wright, KY 41017-8135 (859) 344-1925 Contact: Brian Stevens

brians@car-part.com www.car-part.com

CARVA

Booth # 408

1619 Front St. Lynden, WA 98264 Telephone: (360) 961-7516 Contact: Mike French

mike@carva.group

CashforCars.com Booth # 818

81 Apollo St., 4th Floor Brooklyn, NY 11222 (856) 287-2680 Contact: Aiden Sutkin

aiden.sutkin@copart.com www.cashforcars.com

edebode@bluewhalematerials.com www.bluewhalematerials.com

Automotive Recycling

CCC Intelligent Solutions, Inc. Booth # 214

167 N. Green St., 9th Floor Chicago, IL 60607 (708) 606-9000 Contact: Amy Kobel

akobel@cccis.com www.cccis.com

Commercial Forms Co., Inc. Booth # 321

P.O. Box 1859 Brighton, MI 48116 (810) 494-0964 Contact: Kris DiCarlo

kris@commercialforms.com www.commercialforms.com

Communications Consultants of Colorado Booth # 520

9738 Bucknell Ct. Highlands Ranch, CO 80129 (720) 542-6720 Contact: Kenneth Gurvin

Copart

EngineQuest LLC

14185 Dallas Pkwy., Ste. 300 Dallas, TX 75254 (972) 391-5759 Contact: Amanda Zmolek

2580 N. Commerce Street North Las Vegas, NV 89030 (702) 649-7776 Contact: Scott Stolberg

Booth # 816

amanda.zmolek@copart.com www.copart.com

Crow Environmental, Ltd. Booth # 323

89 Fairview Ln. Staunton, VA 24401 (540) 255-4909 Contact: Mason Smith

msseq@comcast.net www.crowenvironmental.net

eBay, Inc. Booth # 211

20215 Hamilton Ave. San Jose, CA 95125 (408) 376-6817 Contact: Garff Fitzgerald

garff.fitzgerald@ebay.com www.ebaymotors.com

Booth # 303

sjs@enginequest.com www.enginequest.com

ETE REMAN Booth # 402

8155 N 76th St. Milwaukee, WI 53223 (414) 586-0777 Contact: Megan Drews

mdrews@etereman.com www.etereman.com

EZ Suite Booth # 421

1220 North Main St. Mansfield, OH 44906 (419) 295-8511 Contact: Alex Bechstein

alex@ez-suite.com www.ez-suite.com

kgurvin@comconsultantsco.com https://comconsultantsco.com

Automotive Recycling

July-August 2023 // 37

G-Cor Automotive Booth # 422

2100 Refugee Rd. Columbus, OH 43207 (614) 603-5400 Contact: Jared Hund

j.hund@g-cor.com www.g-cor.com

Gensco Equipment Booth # 302

53 Carlaw Ave. Toronto, ON M4M 2R6 Canada (416) 465-7521 Contact: Ari Zelunka

ari@genscoequip.com www.genscoequip.com

Global Refining Group, Inc. Booth # 111

P.O. Box 625 Kenbridge, VA 23944 (877) 257-1404 Contact: Amber Kidd

amber@grgwest.com www.globalrefininggroup.com

Go Powertrain Booth # 527

6606 Rawley Pike Hinton, VA 22831 (540) 830-0286 Contact: Aaron Barnhart

aaron@go-powertrain.com www.go-powertrain.com

Greenland America, Inc. Booth # 800

1905 Woodstock Rd., Ste. 2200 Roswell, GA 34689 (770) 435-1100 Contact: Arianna Somerville

arianna@greenlandamerica.com www.greenlandamerica.com

Interco - A Metaltronics Recycler Booth # 417

5257 Shaw Ave., Ste. 302 St. Louis, MO 63110 (618) 501-0232 Contact: Bob Shallenberger

bobs@intercotradingco.com intercotradingco.com

InXpress Booth # 314

2817 West End Ave. #126 Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 880-8478 Contact: Tony Jenkins

tony.jenkins@inxpress.com

KB Cores Booth # 205

288 W South Tec Dr. Kankakee, IL 60901 (708) 243-0025 Contact: Matt Ruotsi

matt.ruotsi@kbcores.com www.kbcores.com

Lamb Fuels, Inc. Booth # 115

10723 Prospect Ave. Santee, CA 92071 (619) 421-0805 Contact: Jerry Hill

jerryh@lambfuels.com www.lambfuels.com

Lonewolf Petroleum Co. Booth # 906

1790 Hughes Landing Blvd., Ste. 400 The Woodlands, TX 77380 (217) 381-2193 Contact: Paige Johnson

busadmin@lonewolfpetro.com lonewolfpetro.com

Helluva Container

MCI/Maxcore Industries

2007 Jack Nicklaus Dr. Elk Point, SD 57025 (605) 356-2232 Contact: Emily Wells

1431 Kingsland Ave. St. Louis, MO 63133 (314) 581-2970 Contact: Mark Carr

Booth # 500

emily@helluva.com www.helluva.com

Hotlines, Inc. Booth # 415

427 E. Kanesville Blvd., Ste. 403 Council Bluffs, IA 51503 (866) 355-5350 Contact: Betsy Finnell

betsy@hotlinesinc.com www.partshotlines.com

38 // July-August 2023

Booth # 200

mark@mcicores.net www.maxcoreindustries.com

Missouri Auto and Truck Recycling Association Booth # 217

101 E. High St. Jefferson City, MO 65101 (573) 636-2822

Multimetco, Inc. Booth # 215

1610 Franklin Ave. Anniston, AL 36207 (256) 453-7821 Contact: Robin Roberts

robin@multimetco.com www.multimetco.com

Natural Ventures Booth # 305

2904 West 500 South Salt Lake City, UT 84104 (801) 633-4595 Contact: Brylan Schultz

brylan@natven.net https://natven.net

noble6 Booth # 410

25703 Jefferson Ave., #24 Murrieta, CA 92562 (619) 427-8540 Contact: Rich Pelletier

richp@pgmrecoverysystems.com www.pgmrecoverysystems.com

Online Parts Depot Booth # 204

122 Garnet Dr. Gilbertsville, PA 19525 (610) 513-7935 Contact: Matthew Hamlin

matthamlin@onlinepartsdepot.net www.onlinepartsdepot.net

OVB Holding, LLC dba OverBuilt Booth # 100

780 West Park Ave. NW Huron, SD 57350 (605) 352-6469 Contact: Steve Besch

steveb@overbuilt.com www.overbuilt.com

Peak Auto Auctions Booth # 316

5126 Brighton Blvd. Denver, CO 80216 (850) 313-0469 Contact: Matt Davison

matt@peakautoauctions.com www.peakautoauctions.com

Peddle Booth # 711

111 W. 6th St., Ste. 300 Austin, TX 78701-3622 940367-5424 Contact: Meghan Anton

meghan.anton@peddle.com www.peddle.com

Contact: Sarah Goldman sgoldman@swllc.us.com

Automotive Recycling

PGM of Texas

Solera/Hollander

VIN Match Pro

2809 South IH35 San Marcos, TX 78666-5930 (512) 829-4194 Contact: Christina Mendez

1301 Solana Blvd. Westlake, TX 76262-1675 (763) 519-3231 Contact: Kirk Monger

9910 Houston Ave. Hudson, FL 34667 (813) 380-3569 Contact: Holly Cahill

Booth # 705

christina@pgmoftexas.com www.pgmoftexas.com

Booth # 411

kirk.monger@hollanderparts.com www.hollandersolutions.com

Booth # 403

holly@vinmatchpro.com https://vinmatchpro.com

PMR, Inc.

SuperShear

Vortex De-Pollution

4640 Grande Allee Blvd. Boisbriand, QC J7H 1S7 (450) 420-7361 Contact: Chrysten Newton

7235 E. Hampton #107 Mesa, AZ 85209 (480) 789-3893 Contact: Larry DeMIk

12445 E. 39th Ave., Ste. 506 Denver, CO 80239 (303) 900-4040 Contact: Nigel Dove

Booth # 517

chrysten@pmrcc.com www.pmrcc.com/en

Booth # 406

ldemik@supershears.com www.supershears.com

R. M. Johnson Co. EZ Crusher

Team PRP - Premium Recycled Parts

18032 Firelight Dr. N Cold Spring, MN 56302 (320) 267-3672 Contact: Larry Donnay

14 Frenchman’s Key Williamsburg, VA 23185 (800) TeamPRP Contact: Ray Coker

Booth # 518

larryd@ezcrusher.com www.ezcrusher.com

Rebuilders Automotive Supply Company, Inc. (RAS) Booth # 429

1650 Flat River Rd. Coventry, RI 02816 (401) 822-3030 Contact: Lindsey Anthony

lanthony@coresupply.com www.coresupply.com

Redwood Materials Booth # 811

2801 Lockheed Way Carson City, NV 89706 (770) 905-6242 Contact: Justin Butera

justin.butera@redwoodmaterials.com redwoodmaterials.com

Salvage Link Solutions Booth # 815

8308 NW 62nd St. Oklahoma City, OK 73132 (405) 877-5465 Contact: Brian Cullen

Booth # 927

raycoker@teamprp.com www.teamprp.com

Booth # 327

12 Webb Dr. Merrimack, NH 03054 (603) 883-7400 Contact: Jim Hyde

info@wenindustries.com www.wenindustries.com

5605 FM 423, Suite 500-341 Frisco, TX 75036 (972) 838-8057 Contact: Parker Mitchell

2145 Hamilton Ave. San Jose, CA 95125 (914) 697-9417 Contact: Dave Young

Booth # 926

info@texnrewards.com www.texnrewards.com

United Catalyst Corporation Booth # 221

100 Industrial Blvd. Fountain Inn, SC 29644 (864) 834-2003 Contact: Human Resources

hr@unitedcatalystcorporation www.unitedcatalystcorporation.com

United Recyclers Group, LLC Booth # 504

5353 Williams Dr., Ste. 105 Georgetown, TX 78633 (303) 367-4391 Contact: Amanda Morrison

SEDA Environmental LLC

VET Environmental Engineering, LLC

135 Walter Way Fayetteville, GA 30214 (770) 681-0474 Contact: Bruce Henderson

2335 West Fountain Dr. Bloomington, IN 47404 (812) 822-0400 Contact: Elizabeth Grubb

40 // July-August 2023

WEN INDUSTRIES

WHI Solutions, Inc. an eBay co.

amorrison@u-r-g.com www.u-r-g.com

info@seda-usa.com www.seda-usa.com

nigel@vortexdepollution.com www.vortexdepollution.com

Texn Rewards

salvagelinksolutions@gmail.com

Booth # 307

Booth # 514

Booth # 502

dyoung@whisolutions.com

Wolfpack Enterprises Booth # 805

194 Seminary Hill Rd. Manchester, TN 37355 (931) 954-6184 Contact: Hal Hoke

wolfpackenterprises@hotmail.com https://wolfpack-enterprises.business.site/

Yardsmart Booth # 203

5111 Old Midlothian Pike Richmond, VA 23224 (804) 233-5481 Contact: Troy Webber

twebber@capco.info

Booth # 813

elizabeth@vet-env.com www.vet-env.com

Automotive Recycling

HIRING

IT’S A DIFFERENT KIND OF RACE

SLOW FA ST THEN

The best strategy to take in finding and keeping the ideal employees is to hire slow and fire fast.

iStockphoto.com/Byrdyak/eve01genesis

H 42 // July-August 2023

By Jessica Lorello

iring the right employees is crucial for the success of any business, surely, we all have learned this lesson in our business journey. The question becomes “How do you hire the right employees?” The first tip I can give you is to adopt the mantra of “hire slow, fire fast,” You are reading that and immediately are thinking, “Hire slow? … but I need employees YESTERDAY!” I hear you loud and clear, but what if I could give you tools to help you in your hiring process to hire QUALITY employees that you can retain so you aren’t put in a position of hiring someone who might not show up to work on the first day. This process will not go at a pace that makes you comfortable, in fact it will be very uncomfortable because it will be very slow. But a slow pace of hiring can significantly improve your chances of finding the right fit for your organization, improve retention, improve employee engagement, and if you can imagine it, lower your worries and stresses.

The hire slow process looks a little bit like this: • Define job requirements clearly: Before beginning the hiring process, take the time to clearly define the specific job requirements and qualifications necessary for success in the position. This will help you attract candidates who are genuinely qualified and have a genuine interest in the industry. • Do some research on job search platforms: Make sure it fits for the position you are searching for. • Create a realistic timeline and process for the search: The longer the timeline, the better. Then if you find someone sooner, you will surprise yourself. Make sure to notify all the people who will be a part of the hiring process ahead of time. Share with them the needs of the role and the expectation of their feedback as it relates to candidates. • Thoroughly review resumes and applications: When reviewing resumes and applications, pay close attention to relevant work experience, and anything else specific to the job that might make them stand out, such as certifications and educational background. Look for candidates who have transferable skills that align with Automotive Recycling

the job requirements. Consider shortlisting candidates who possess a combination of relevant experience and a willingness to learn and adapt. • Conduct In-Depth Interviews: This can be phone interviews, virtual interviews, and/or in person interviews. Interviews provide valuable insights into a candidate’s personality, work ethic, and problem-solving abilities. Structure interviews to include both behavioral and situational questions that assess the candidate’s ability to handle challenges commonly faced in your industry. Encourage candidates to provide specific examples from their past experiences to gauge their practical knowledge and problem-solving skills. • Utilize pre-employment tests and assessments: This might be a time that they come in to work alongside another employee doing parts of the job they will be required to do. This allows for employee feedback on the candidate, which promotes employee engagement, and it gives the candidate an idea of what the job will be before they even start. [As an HR professional, I need to tell you, you are required to pay for all hours worked, so you will need to pay the candidate for the time they are working. It is a small fee for a big payoff.] • Check references and verify credentials: Contact the references provided by the candidate to gain insights into their past performance, reliability, and work ethic. Verify their educational background, certifications, and licenses, especially when these qualifications are critical to the role. This step helps ensure you hire employees with the necessary qualifications and minimizes the risk of potential misrepresentation. See what I mean? This isn’t an overnight process, but I have experience in this. You will reap the benefits of taking your time and hiring people that truly want to work with your business. Here’s another quick tip, just because a candidate doesn’t work out now, doesn’t mean they won’t work out later. Here’s the scenario: You have two really great candidates, but you can only hire one. Hire one and then keep in touch with the other candidate. Set up monthly meetings to check in, maybe go to lunch. You are building a relationship with this person, and they will be more likely to give you 100% and be retained when you do have a position open for them. It takes work, it is not easy, there is no “quick fix,” you must put in the work if you want good people working for your business.

The Flip Side The mantra “hire slow, fire fast” has a part two – fire fast. Firing people or even talking about firing people is always a little uncomfortable. As it should be, firing someone can change the trajectory of their life. But if they are not performing to the standards of the position or if they are not upholding the policies of the company, fire fast. Have you ever heard the saying “one bad apple can spoil the bunch?” This is actually true! If good apples are Automotive Recycling

Hire slow, fire fast. It is a mantra that could change your business success. in the bag with one rotten apple, the rotten apple emits gases that makes the good apples start to rot. This is true in your workforce. If your one “bad apple” is under performing and not getting noticed, then your “good apples” are going to start to become under performers as well. The thought being “I am working hard and not getting noticed, and they are barely working and not getting noticed, so I am not going to work hard anymore.” One bad apple can, in fact, spoil the bunch. Fire fast so your bunch is not spoiled. Now let’s take a pause because this is not to say that we need to walk around firing everyone. There is a way to be intentional and speedy in this process, this is the part where we get to move quick. • Make sure you have a disciplinary process and policy in your employee handbook. That ensures there are minimal surprises when it comes to what measures are being taken for the employee and the employer. • When we notice an issue, we need to address it on the spot. Communicate early and often. It may be worth doing an exercise with management to decide what is something that needs to be addressed on the spot versus something that can wait until a performance review. • If there are repetitive issues, get a second opinion. Are the issues egregious enough for termination? Is that apple spoiling the bunch? If so, move quick. • It is important to understand the laws as it relates to termination in your state. Are you an “at will” employment state? Do you have to pay for unused time off? These are things an HR professional can help you with, but certainly something to keep in mind. Hire slow, fire fast. It is a mantra that could change your business success. Once you adopt the mantra, give yourself six months to see results. You will be proud of yourself, proud of your team, and you will notice a big difference in how your employees engage at work. People want to know that they matter to the greater purpose of the company. They want to know that they are seen for the work they are doing, and by hiring great people through a slow process, and getting rid of the bad apples quickly, your employees will have a greater respect for you and the company. Join the race. Slow, then fast. You will come out the winner. Jessica Lorello, PHR, has a strong, diverse background in operations, leadership, administration, research, and management. Jessica has worked in an HR role in higher education, hospitality, and healthcare. Currently, she is working as a Fractional HR professional with Employers Advantage, LLC as a HR Generalist working with clients all across the U.S. and in various industries. July-August 2023 // 43

BUSINESS

SSIN E S S G

THE BEST

Employment assessments are one tool that auto recyclers can use to identify the ideal candidates to fill roles in their companies.

iStockphoto.com/marchmeena29

T 44 // July-August 2023

By Maura Keller

he second employee in six months just gave their notice. They said they are leaving for better pay, better hours, better benefits, or better advancement opportunities. When employees leave a company, there is often a gaping hole to fill. And while the task of recruitment and hiring can be daunting, employee assessments, which primarily involve preemployment tests, quizzes, and activities to assess and evaluate an employee’s ability to perform a specific skill or their fit for a particular job, also are vital components of every business’ success and can dramatically affect your bottom line. “Business owners and human resources staff should consider using employment assessments as a way to improve the accuracy and efficiency of their hiring process,” says Jonathan Westover, managing partner and principal at Human Capital Innovations. “Assessments can help employers identify the best candidates for the job, ensure a good fit between the candidate and the company culture, and reduce the risk of hiring mistakes.

Additionally, assessments can help identify areas where employees may need additional training or development, leading to overall improvements in the workforce.” According to Jason Leverant, president and chief operating officer at AtWork Group, employment assessments provide results that are generally designed to assist a hiring manager in making a better hire, and while it does add a step to the hiring process, the positive impact that assessments can make includes accelerating the hiring process. “That positive impact makes employment assessments a standard tool in most hiring manager’s toolboxes, and have become prevalent throughout the HR world,” Leverant says. The vast majority of assessments are administered electronically, using “software as a service” tools such as eSkill, Prove-It, or the multitude of other, similar platforms to quickly administer tests to applicants. As Leverant explains, these assessments typically come in the form of a skills test or a quiz, but there are quite a few personality-based assessments that are much more in-depth and provide much more detailed information back to the administrator. These types of assessments Automotive Recycling

are typically administered online, using partners such as DISC, Wonderlic, or Predictive Index. “Employment assessments are a great tool to help identify the best candidate for a position. Whether it be a cultural, personality fit, or a basic requirement of a granular skill, employment assessments can help you make objective decisions on who to hire, especially when you’ve got multiple closely ranked candidates that could all make a good fit for your organization,” Leverant says. “These types of assessments will help quickly identify the best of the best.”

Testing for Fit When looking for testing criteria, it is helpful to decide which test will identify a candidate’s ability to fit into a workplace culture. Barbara Spector, CEO and President of Smart Moves, Inc. points out that there are different types of pre-employment assessments, including: COGNITIVE ASSESSMENTS: These tests evaluate a candidate’s mental abilities, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, logical reasoning, and numerical or verbal skills. They provide insights into an individual’s ability to learn, adapt, and perform tasks required for the job. PERSONALITY ASSESSMENTS: These assessments gauge an individual’s personality traits, characteristics, and behavioral tendencies. They help employers understand how a candidate may interact with colleagues, handle stress, communicate, and approach work-related situations. Personality testing in a practical application plays a crucial role not in the candidate’s capacity to learn and apply the necessary information, but more so in the candidate’s willingness to perform their future job on a daily basis. Fitting in with the ever-unique company culture is another vital aspect for long-term employment and effective workplace communication that is measured by a well-constructed personality assessment. SKILLS ASSESSMENTS: These tests measure a candidate’s specific job-related skills and competencies. They assess technical knowledge, proficiency in software applications, language proficiency, or any other skills relevant to the position. INTEGRITY AND APTITUDE TESTS: These assessments evaluate a candidate’s ethical values, honesty, reliability, and attitudes toward workplace behavior. They help employers identify individuals who are likely to engage in misconduct or exhibit unethical behavior. “Once a candidate is hired, employers may also use employment assessments to evaluate an employee’s performance, identify areas for development, or make decisions regarding promotions, transfers, or training opportunities,” Spector says. “These assessments can help organizations effectively manage talent and improve overall workforce productivity.” Spector adds that it’s important to note that while employment and pre-employment assessments provide Automotive Recycling

valuable insights, they should not be the sole determining factor in hiring decisions. They should be used in conjunction with other hiring practices, such as interviews, reference checks, and work samples, to form a comprehensive evaluation of a candidate’s suitability for a specific role. “Overall, employment assessments provide valuable insights into candidates’ abilities, potential, and fit with the job and organization. By incorporating these assessments into the hiring process, business owners and HR staff can make more informed and effective hiring decisions, leading to improved workforce productivity, reduced turnover, and better organizational outcomes,” Spector says. “Business owners and HR staff should consider using employment assessments for several reasons.” Spector says these include: OBJECTIVE EVALUATION: Employment assessments provide an objective and standardized way to evaluate candidates’ qualifications and potential job performance. They offer a fair and consistent method of comparison among applicants, reducing biases and subjectivity in the hiring process.

“Overall, employment assessments provide valuable insights into candidates’ abilities, potential, and fit with the job and organization.” —Barbara Spector, CEO and President of Smart Moves, Inc.

PREDICTIVE VALIDITY: Well-designed employment assessments have been validated through research to accurately predict job performance. By using these assessments, employers can identify candidates who are likely to succeed in specific roles, reducing the risk of hiring individuals who may not meet job requirements or perform poorly. TIME AND COST EFFICIENCY: Assessments can help streamline the hiring process by efficiently screening candidates. By assessing candidates’ skills and abilities upfront, employers can identify top performers and focus their resources on interviewing and selecting the most promising candidates. This saves time and reduces the costs associated with a lengthy hiring process. JOB FIT AND PERFORMANCE: Employment assessments enable employers to evaluate a candidate’s fit with the job requirements and organizational culture. Assessments can assess not only cognitive abilities but also personality traits, behavioral tendencies, and job-specific skills. This helps identify individuals who align well with the job and the company, leading to higher job satisfaction, engagement, and performance. July-August 2023 // 45

REDUCING TURNOVER: Hiring the right candidates who are well-suited for the job and the organization can significantly reduce employee turnover. Employment assessments can help identify candidates who possess the necessary skills, competencies, and traits for long-term success, ultimately contributing to employee retention and reducing the costs associated with frequent hiring and onboarding. COMPLIANCE AND LEGAL PROTECTION: Using standardized employment assessments can help organizations demonstrate fairness and compliance with equal employment opportunity (EEO) regulations. By utilizing validated assessments, employers can mitigate the risk of discriminatory hiring practices and potential legal challenges. EMPLOYEE DEVELOPMENT: Assessments can also be used beyond the hiring process. Once employees are hired, assessments can help identify areas for development, determine training needs, and create personalized development plans. This enables businesses to invest in their employees’ growth, enhancing performance and promoting career advancement.

Strategies To Take Over the last three years, the U.S. labor market has suffered from extreme talent shortages. As Leverant points out, this demand for employees has lessened the use of employment assessments recently based off of the perceived impact it has on the recruiting and hiring process. Many HR professionals, talent acquisition specialists, and recruiters shy away from using assessments because of the slowdown and potential limiting affect it can have on their talent flow. “Ultimately, many people look at the results provided by an employment assessment as a pass/fail for a job,” Leverant says. “Instead, those results should be used as simply a piece, or component, of the decision-making process when you are contemplating to hire. Even more impactful, those same results can be used post-hire in order to help in your coaching and development of this employee. As a leader, isn’t that what we all strive to do?” Consistency also is absolutely critical when using employment assessments within your organization. As a best practice, Leverant advises auto recyclers that many of the assessments on the market today allow you to assess your existing staff and start creating benchmarking for your organization. “This benchmarking provides you with an objective viewpoint as to what works, and what doesn’t, within your company,” Leverant says. For example, if an employer wants to know what makes a great salesperson, a manager would look at their top performers and provide the employment assessments to them. “I’d want to see what their scores are, and use those results as a bellwether to determine if a prospective employee is similar to my most effective/productive 46 // July-August 2023

employees,” Leverant says. “As an employer, you have to be very careful to not use employment assessments on a ‘case-by-case’ or ‘one-off’ basis. That will open up the potential for claims of discriminatory hiring practices. regardless of the fact that there is any basis for the claim or not.” Westover says the best strategies for using employment assessments include selecting assessments that are relevant to the job requirements, using assessments in combination with other evaluation methods, and ensuring that the assessments are valid and reliable. “Companies should also make sure that they are using assessments that are legally defensible and comply with Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) guidelines,” Westover says. “The ‘don’ts’ that companies need to keep in mind include avoiding assessments that are biased or discriminatory, relying solely on assessments to make hiring decisions, and failing to provide feedback to candidates about their assessment results.” One common mistake that Westover says companies make in their use of employment assessments is relying too heavily on a single assessment or ignoring other factors that may impact job performance. It’s important to remember that assessments are just one part of the hiring process and should be used in combination with other evaluation methods. Another mistake is using assessments that are not valid or reliable, which can result in inaccurate assessments of candidates’ abilities. “The current state of the economy has actually increased the need for employment assessments,” Westover says. “With more people looking for jobs, companies are receiving a larger number of applications for each position. Additionally, with many companies moving to remote work, assessments can help ensure that new hires have the skills and abilities to be successful in a virtual work environment.” Employers should remember that employment assessments are just one tool in the hiring process. Westover advises that companies should also consider other factors, such as experience, education, and references, when making hiring decisions. Additionally, employers should be transparent with candidates about the use of assessments and provide feedback to candidates about their results. “Employment assessments can be a valuable tool for employers in the automotive recycling sector,” Westover says. “By using assessments in combination with other evaluation methods, selecting assessments that are relevant and reliable, and ensuring compliance with EEOC guidelines, companies can improve the accuracy and efficiency of their hiring process and build a stronger workforce. Based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Maura Keller is a seasoned writer, editor, and published author, with more than 20 years of experience. She frequently writes for various regional and national publications. Automotive Recycling

INTERVIEW

Recycler to Watch By Caryn Smith

A Dream Come True

How one Daurio Auto and Truck employee found his place in America – and in the family.

n the auto recycling community, it is not unusual to see new hires come and go quickly, and seasoned employees jump to other pastures – and even some rare employees who stay for an entire career at one facility. Finding potential legacy employees is difficult, yet when you discover their dedication and passion for the business, you work hard to keep them. Oftentimes, what keeps people at one facility for their duration of their career is the feeling of being a valued member of the “family.” Benefits like generous salary, healthcare, and vacation plans are great incentives. Yet, for many, the ultimate workplace benefit is finding a greater purpose in a place that values your wellbeing and offers growth potential as a person. This is something you cannot put a price tag on. That kind of culture is a signature mark of the automotive recycling industry worldwide as a business model that celebrates

Automotive Recycling

generational leadership and develops a family-style work culture. When Mexican immigrant Jose Angel Valdez found himself employed through a series of circumstances at Daurio Auto and Truck in Pueblo, Colorado, at 19 years old, he didn’t realize his pursuit of his American Dream would result in such a purposeful life. Jose and his wife Maxine Valdez acquired their citizenship and built a life for themselves, their children, and grandchildren, inside of the automotive recycling community. When John Daurio, patriarch of the business, met Jose and hired him on the same day in 1984, he was willing to give this kid a chance, seeing his eagerness to work and despite language barriers. From this, a life-long friendship developed, based on mutual loyalty and respect, that spanned 39 years until John’s passing on June 20, 2022. Jose’s unparalleled work ethic, and his dedication to John and the business, is something special to note.

July-August 2023 // 47

This is a life that Jose, now 61, is extremely grateful to have found as an employee of Daurios, and in his current role as the facility’s Operations Manager. He is the longest serving employee in the company. Automotive Recycling magazine caught up with Jose Angel Valdez and Nick Daurio, now owner of Daurio Auto and Truck, with his brother Mike Daurio and son Greg Daurio, to share this inspirational story of personal and professional achievement. The duo shared the unexpected benefits that they experienced by John giving someone a chance despite obstacles.

Beginnings of a Team In 1955, John Daurio started the auto recycling business on Pueblo, Colorado’s east side. After moving the location, a total of three times, in 1971 they settled into their current 8th Street location. Daurio Auto and Truck is now an ARA Certified Automotive Recycler that encompasses 30 acres in four lots, with entire buildings devoted to specific parts – and nothing touching the ground. But in the beginning, it was a blank slate of empty ground. While times were lean as John built out the infrastructure, around this time a simple deal with Don Ware of Don’s Sportcar, another new business nearby, changed everything. When they each landed insurance contracts, they agreed for Don to take the foreign vehicles and John to take the American ones – a deal still in place today and made on a handshake. This is how John did business. Over time, the business expanded as professional automotive recyclers. While John was busy building the business, Jose was in Mexico with curiosity about America. Jose shows his water room construction handywork with pride.

48 // July-August 2023

Coming to America “In 1980, a friend and I came across the border legally from Mexico,” remembers Jose. “We didn’t know anything, you know. We just came across for two or

three weeks to work a little bit here and there. I started working in the fields, farming vegetables. We first came to see what the U.S. is like; we were not planning on staying here. Three months later, he went back to Mexico, and I ended up here. My idea was to get a better life for me and my family in Mexico.” The priority was to get steady work, but Jose ran into obstacles. “When I look back, nobody wanted to hire me because I was so young. I was a kid. I knew little English. But I needed a job to get my green card. So finally, after a few years of field work, a man named Thomas hired me and helped me to get my green card. He helped me a lot,” says Jose. As a result, several years later Jose was able to apply for his U.S. citizenship. During the green card process, the applicant must return to their home country. When Jose came back from Mexico after receiving his, the only jobs available were day laborer jobs. Living in a poorer subdivision in Pueblo, there seemed to be no way out of this situation. Fortunately, Jose met his wife while in the U.S. and they made plans to build their future here. His wife had begun working at a restaurant (and she still works there today, 40 years later, for the now second-generation owners). The couple had their first daughter, and Jose decided to think outside the box to secure a better work situation for himself. “One day, I was walking in a neighborhood thinking about what to do, and I saw a house and thought maybe I could do some work there,” says Jose. “I rang the doorbell, and this lady came out. She didn’t know Spanish, but she asked me what I needed. So, I told her that I was looking for steady work and I was reliable. She asked me to wait one minute and went back to the house. A man came out, Mr. John Mendoza, and he knew some Spanish. I told him about my situation. So, he hired me.” Jose worked for Mr. Mendoza for about three months doing projects around his house. Impressed with his work ethic, when he didn’t have any more work for Jose, he said, “I want to take you to meet one of my best friends and I know he will hire you right then.” So, he introduced me to Mr. John Daurio, and his family. Based on the referral, John hired him to do some maintenance. “I’ve now been working for Daurio Auto and Truck since April 19, 1984 – for 39 years. I didn’t know anything about auto recycling. As the days go by, you know, I learned. Every day, I am thankful for the way they treat me and my family,” says Jose. “The first job when I start working for John, he had me working on transmissions,” Jose laughs. “But, before I did any work the first day, he took me to lunch. John said, ‘I’m gonna take you to lunch first, because I am going to work you hard.’’’ Nick Daurio, now owner of Daurio’s, chimes in laughing. “So, that means John gave him a pretty nasty job. We had the school buses where we kept transmissions, at that time everybody was storing parts in buses. Automotive Recycling

The team at Daurio Auto and Truck.

It needed organizing and cleaning. It was probably not a good job to start with for Jose, but I think John’s purpose on that was, we’re going to find out what kind of worker he really is.” “Yes. I wanted to work that same day, too, because I didn’t want him to change his mind,” Jose adds. “John didn’t speak Spanish, so the conversation at lunch was a lot of pointing at things. Over time, we understood each other pretty well and got a sense of each other because we really connected the first day.” Not really knowing how long this job would last, Jose felt this would last a long time based on the connection he had with John his first day.

A Job Well Done, Always Jose started in a janitorial position. Besides cleaning out the bus, anything else that needed done for cleanup, he did. The more the facility started shining, the more work Jose took on. He learned how to speak English a little bit at a time. So those first couple years, Jose mainly worked on projects, whether it was fixing anything that needed fixing, to building shelving, putting racks in, or helping John build buildings. Later, Jose is proud to have built a washroom where all the facility’s water is completely recycled through a machine. Eventually, Jose moved into parts inventory, putting them on shelves. He learned all the Hollander numbers and rack locations. “As he went through that process,” Nick notes, “then he started doing deliveries during the day before we had our current full-service delivery system.” “He continued to improve at inventory, as time progressed,” says Nick. “Yet, if we needed a building painted, lights fixed, remodeling, plumbing – it didn’t matter what we needed to get done for the facility – building fences, gates, and buildings – Jose was involved with John and several others to do building projects. In the time Jose has Automotive Recycling

been working here, he has continually worked his way up the ladder. He has done every job at the facility, except sales, and can operate all the equipment we have on site.” “He is there if a delivery driver is needed or if cars need to be torn down,” says Nick, “especially during COVID when everybody was short on help. He’s even operated our tow truck a time or two when we needed him or had to clean up a big accident scene. Whatever he does, it is always right the first time, with little if any oversight. And it is done with pride.” His pride and work ethic are apparent. Jose shows up to work every day with a clean uniform, and he is always prepared for any type of situation or weather if working outside. “In his 39 years, other than vacations, Jose has never called in sick one time, according to the company’s yearly attendance records,” notes Nick. Now as Daurio Auto and Truck’s Operations Manager, Jose manages all facility projects and needs. “If there is a facility problem or improvement to be made, Jose is our go-to person that makes it happen,” says Nick. He also lends a hand mentoring employees and keeping the well-documented procedures and processes adhered to. “I feel good to help others, to teach them what I learned from the company and to have pride in their work,” says Jose. “He’s been a great mentor to the people that work here,” says Nick. “He’s been here the longest. They all have a tremendous amount of respect for him. And they know that whatever he is training them to do, that’s the way it needs to be done for them to perform their jobs. In our desired culture, it should be done right the first time.” “As an employee, if he sees something that isn’t being done correctly, he will take the time to educate the person on the correct way, in a positive manner. If it still isn’t corrected by the individual, at that point in time we will have a bigger conversation. He’s setting a great example July-August 2023 // 49

“Yeah. Sometimes John would want me to do certain things his way, you know,” laughs Jose. “I used to tell him, ‘Well, I think this way looks better.’ Insisting on his way, he would say, ‘whenever you get done come and get me, I want to see how it looks.’ So, I would get it done and go get him. He looks and says, ‘You know what? I think you were right. Do it your way.’ So, I must start over. … That was fun, I enjoyed that.”

Making the Most of America

Jose and thirdgeneration recycler Greg Daurio discuss the business amongst racked inventory.

for our team and helps us to uphold the professional standards we have in place for our facility.”

Parallel Friendship Emerges In Jose’s workday, he usually was working side by side with John who directed the projects. Over time, it created an unusual friendship that became quite remarkable. “John and Jose worked closely together every day, and their bond just kept getting stronger over time – and not only in our family, but in his family, as well,” says Nick. “The relationship that formed over this timeframe was not only a new employer to an employee, but it turned into a best friend and a father-son relationship,” Nick

The bond that he’s basically started with my dad years ago, has continued with my brother, Mike, and I, and now my son, Greg. That mutual loyalty has transferred from down from one generation to the next. – Nick Daurio shares. “John and Jose basically became best buddies. They would even do activities on weekends together, like go out to dinner with their wives.” “The bond that he’s basically started with my dad years ago, has continued with my brother, Mike, and I, and now my son, Greg,” he continues. “So as the generations have changed through the years in the leadership here, he’s followed that because I feel that my brother and I, along with my son, show him the same respect that John did. That mutual loyalty has transferred from down from one generation to the next.” When asked if John and Jose ever disagreed, Nick says to Jose, “Like when John would tell you to do something, and you would disagree. And then you’d mentioned it to him. Then it wouldn’t go right. And then you’d say I told you so, John.” 50 // July-August 2023

Jose originally came to America to benefit his family in Mexico, mostly his mother who still resides in Zacatecas, Mexico. “I still send her a monthly check, to help her out. That was one of the reasons that I came to the U.S., to help her and I still do it. We applied for her resident green card 20 years ago, so she can come in and out to the U.S. anytime she wants to. She’s now 78.” Jose is the oldest of his siblings that include four sisters. Three live in Mexico and one in Texas. In America, at 19, just after starting work at Daurio’s, he and his wife Maxine bought their first house. Around 15 years later, it was paid off. Originally, it was a single level house, but he dug out the basement by hand with pick, shovel, and wheelbarrow over 11 months, and also added a two-car garage in the backyard, and a carport. They raised two daughters in that home, and he was able to save and pay for their schooling. They both were educated through college, debt free. One is a certified nursing assistant and the other is a dental hygienist. The couple now has three grandsons and two granddaughters, and most of the family lives close by. Being super industrious, he also has a side business. “About seven years ago I started working during on my lunch for about an hour or so, where I will go mow a lawn, rake leaves, or shovel snow in someone’s yard. On weekends I still do work for homeowners.” “He’s developed a large clientele for that,” says Nick, “I have several friends and customers, that he works for on the side. He’s very responsible on whatever he does. The value of craftmanship that he brings to any of his work is reflected in his success.” Commenting on his pride over Jose’s accomplishments, Nick says, “Coming from Mexico with nothing, I thought this would be a tremendous story on his achievements as an immigrant, the way he came here properly and responsibly, and how his dedication to excellence has benefited him and his family. I am grateful for the loyalty and honesty that he has shown our family for all these years.” “As a person, we are proud of how he and his wife have raised two children, educated them through college, and even helped to educate his grandkids that have wanted to go to school,” he says. “He has a great retirement program and is very dedicated to it, along with our other benefits. They go to church most every Saturday night and have their date night together still.” Automotive Recycling

Nick Daurio, right, and Jose stand on the lawn of the home once owned by John and Charlene Daurio, and is now the home of the Valdez couple.

“My father was very strong-willed, very opinionated,” shares Nick. “But his story was like Jose’s when it comes down to it. He grew up poor, his dad immigrated from Italy. My grandfather’s brother was in the U.S. And at 15, my grandfather wanting to join him could not afford the ship passage here, and so he snuck onto a ship and hid in a barrel for several days until he knew it was too late, and they couldn’t turn back. When getting to Ellis Island, he couldn’t speak English, only Italian. Someone handed him a ticket to Pueblo, CO after being released from Ellis Island quarantine, and he got a job here farming.”

An Unusual Question The tight bond that Jose and John shared led to yet another unusual instance. John passed away last year on June 20, 2022. “After my father passed,” says Nick, “I asked Jose, ‘Would you possibly be interested in buying my dad’s house and moving into it?’ His reaction was shock, probably … and accomplishment and pride.” He and his wife talked it over, and on February 18, 2023,

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they purchased John and Charlene Daurio’s house. “I couldn’t be prouder of him and happier for him,” says Nick. “I know that my dad would be happy, and my mother just loved him, as well. So, we’ve journeyed into that now. I just think it’s a tremendous story, you know, on the success that he has had and the impact that he’s made on our lives – and my mother and father’s life. It is amazing.” On owning the house, Jose says to Nick, “I thank you guys and you are my family. And I’m really happy to be in the house, and I enjoy it every second. I'm really happy to be there. I am sure John and his wife are happy, too.” “You know, anything that we’ve ever done with one another, we’ve done it because we loved each other,” shares Nick. “And we cared for one another. And for the recycling business that we’ve been involved in, it’s created a lifelong friendship as well as a valued employeeemployer relationship. That couldn’t have been better. It has made me so proud of how he has succeeded in life.” “I love what I do here,” says Jose. “It is a dream come true.”

Automotive Recycling

Advertiser’s Index

Company.........................................................................................................Website..........................................................................Ad Pg. No. Amwins Program Underwriters.................................................. amwins.com/apu............................................................ 21 Accurate Converter....................................................................... accurateconverter.com.................................................. 33 Airbag Recycler Settlement......................................................... airbagrecyclersettlement.com...................................... 27 APFusion......................................................................................apfusion.com...............................................................IFC ARA 80th Annual Convention & Expo...................................a-r-a.org/convention................................................. IBC ATSG.............................................................................................atsg.com........................................................................ 51 Buddy Automotive Innovations...............................................buddyai.com.................................................................29 Carolina Wheel Cover...............................................................ineedahubcap.com......................................................53 Car-Part.com...............................................................................car-part.com.................................................................BC CCC Intelligent Solutions, Inc..................................................cccis.com/recyclers..................................................... 16 Copart...........................................................................................copart.com/autorecyclers........................................... 14 CRUSH/S3 Software Solutions, LLC........................................s3softwaresolutions.com............................................. 7 Dorman Products, Inc................................................................dormanproducts.com.................................................... 5 ETE REMAN................................................................................... etereman.com................................................................. 23 Gensco............................................................................................ genscoequip.com/auto-recycling-equipment............ 41 Induction Innovations...............................................................theinductor.com........................................................... 15 MarkingPenDepot.com..............................................................markingpendepot.com................................................52 Midwest Gas...............................................................................midwestgas.us.............................................................53 Multimetco..................................................................................multimetco.com............................................................37 New Pig........................................................................................newpig.com/autorecyclers.........................................19 Noble6..........................................................................................noble6.com...................................................................27 PGM of Texas..............................................................................pgmoftexas.com........................................................... 17 PMR..............................................................................................pmrcc.com.....................................................................35 Supershear..................................................................................supershears.com.......................................................... 11 United Catalyst Corporation.....................................................unitedcatalystcorporation.com.................................39 United Recyclers Group............................................................u-r-g.com......................................................................25 Vander Haag’s, Inc.....................................................................vanderhaags.com........................................................53 We Buy Key Fobs...........................................................................webuykeyfobs.com....................................................... 20 Wolfpack Enterprises.....................................................................wolfpack-enterprises.business.site............................ 52

Automotive Recycling

Advertise!

Contact Caryn Smith and Jay Mason for your Customized Marketing Plan to reach ARA Member decision-makers with your advertising! Call (239) 223-9408 or email jay@drivenbydesign.net

July-August 2023 // 53

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Sail Away with ARA

ne of the most critical parts of growing your business is networking with other owners/operators. Networking involves building relationships, establishing connections, and fostering mutually beneficial collaborations with individuals and organizations. As a business owner, your network can be a valuable asset, offering a plethora of opportunities that can contribute to your company’s growth and prosperity. ARA recognizes the importance of the networking environment. We see it every year at our annual convention and expo. So much business happens in the hallways, restaurants, and bars. ARA has decided we would create some fun events specifically for networking. The first one this year was a day of sailing on a luxury yacht in Annapolis, Maryland. The event’s unofficial start was on Friday, June 23rd when Greg Condon held an open house at his facility in Westminster, Maryland. Greg is a very active member with ARA, the founder of the Professional Salvage Yard Information Forum, and for the past six decades, Condon’s Auto Parts has built a reputation as a trusted supplier of auto parts for customers in Baltimore, Washington, D.C. and across Northern Virginia. We appreciated his hospitality!

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NEXT UP: On September 10th, ARA members are headed offshore near Galveston, Texas for deep sea fishing. Email Vince@a-r-a.org if you are interested in attending an outing or have an idea for one. Read the ARA 360 eNewsletter for future announcements.

Automotive Recycling

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