Duglas Salvador
Toyota Expert Technician
Mike Calvert Toyota

Tell us about yourself. What made you decide to become a service professional?
My decision started when I was a porter at Toyota. I like being in the shop and talk to technicians about cars. I enjoyed working on my own vehicle from doing basic maintenance to upgrading parts. I was promoted from porter to express technician, and that is when my passion for the automotive field started. As I wanted to progress in my career I ended up attending Toyota T-TEN program. Now I have graduated and I’m on the path to becoming a Master Technician.

Where/How did you get your training to get the knowledge you have today?
I attended the Toyota T-Ten program at San Jacinto College.

How long have you worked as a service professional?
Over four years.

What role has being ASE Certified played in your journey?
It has allowed me to get manufacturer certified and advance in my career.

What ASE Certifications do you currently hold?
A1,A3,A4,A5,A6,A7,A8

What are some of the top challenges you do/did face as a service professional and how do/did you overcome them?
Starting out I struggled with having the right tools for the job, but over time I was able to obtain the tools I needed and wanted to fulfill my duties.

Do you have any advice for today’s students who might be thinking about entering the automotive industry or becoming a service professional?
I recommend going to an automotive training since I personally gained so much knowledge and skills.

What do you like most about being an automotive service professional?
Honestly, getting paid to do what I love. Having the freedom to work at my own pace and have the ability to make as much hours as I can in a day.