Standards matter. Leadership matters. And the future of fixed ops depends on both.

In this episode of What the Fixed Ops?!, we welcome Dave Johnson, President & CEO of ASE (Automotive Service Excellence), to the show.

Dave’s story is the embodiment of what’s possible in this industry. From growing up farming and ranching in northern Wyoming to a 32-year career with Ford Motor Company — ultimately serving as a global executive over fixed ops support operations — and now leading ASE, his journey reflects grit, humility, and a deep belief in people. This conversation goes far beyond certifications. It’s about raising standards, developing professionals, and building an industry that respects the craft.

This episode will challenge the way you think about technicians, leadership, and the future of automotive.

We talk about:

• Why lowering certification standards to solve a tech shortage is the wrong answer 
• The powerful correlation between ASE certification, productivity, retention, and fewer comebacks
• How short-term thinking in dealerships undermines long-term success
• Why fixed ops is the true foundation of dealership profitability
• The danger of treating technicians like commodities instead of professionals
• The shift away from the “grease monkey” stereotype toward highly skilled, tech-driven experts
• What servant leadership really looks like in a high-performance automotive organization
• Why the next generation of technicians gives him real hope
• The concept of a “career lattice” — not just a career ladder — in automotive
• How proper standards actually attract and retain top talent

Dave doesn’t just defend certification — he reframes it.

It’s not about exclusivity. It’s about identity, growth, and enabling professionals to become masters of their craft.

This is a powerful, thoughtful, and forward-looking conversation about where fixed ops is headed — and what it will take to win.