We just took the van in for an oil change and rear brakes in preparation for our trip(s). We noticed, standing in the long line which had formed even before the doors opened, that Chris McCarthy’s certifications weren’t on the wall any more; just three blank spaces where the paint was a lighter color.

When we got to the front we asked if Chris had left, and the chap behind the counter volunteered that Chris would be opening his own place across the street soon, but that they still had all the same technicians they’d had when Chris was there.

And I thought, so what?

I didn’t go there for anybody’s technical expertise. Most folks who can get and keep a job as a mechanic are competent at the technical stuff. The primary place auto shops fall down is in the ethics department.

We trust Chris McCarthy. I couldn’t care less who his technicians are; I know he’ll hire the right people, expect good work and honesty, and treat me with respect.

It’s not about the technicians, folks. It’s not about doing a good job. You can be the best in the world, but people do business with people they know, like, and trust.