Partner Showcase

Kevan Short
Snap-on/ASE Master Collision Repair & Refinish

Technician of the Year

Q&A

ASE recently caught up with a busy Kevan Short, winner of the Snap-on/ASE Master Collision Repair and Refinish Technician of the Year award. Kevan works as a body technician at Suburban Collision in Troy, Michigan. Suburban Collision is part of the Suburban Collection, a multi-franchise dealership in Southeast Michigan. Kevan lives with his wife, Linda, in Oak Park, Michigan.

Q: Tell a bit about yourself.

Kevan Short: I have been in the auto industry for 32 years. I started as a porter in 1987 and worked my way up. In addition to being an ASE Master Technician, I’m I-CAR certified and was awarded President’s Club status for over 20 years with the Suburban Collection. I’m married and we became first-time grandparents this past May with the birth of our granddaughter, Madison, and we expect our second grandchild this spring.

Q: How did you get started in the profession?

KS: It was my life-long interest in cars, as well as enjoying working with my hands, that helped me become a technician. I wanted to be a drag racer or custom car builder but MICHIGAN is not the best state for that. I took the two-year program in body repair at Oakland Schools Technical Campus, Southeast, in Royal Oak while earning my high school diploma.

Q: Did you have any early influencers or mentors?

KS: Yes, my Dad was my mentor, teaching me to take initiative and have a strong work ethic. He is my role model on working hard; he would be fixing the family car and I would pass tools when I was young. Dave Hollinger, my instructor at Southeastern Oakland Vocational Center, was an excellent teacher, mentor, and professional example.

Q: Any thoughts on being a technician and being ASE Certified?

KS: It’s a good feeling when you’ve worked hard on a customer’s car, returning it to pre-accident condition, and they’re pleased with your work. ASE certification allows me to keep my skills sharp and be the best technician I can be. Q: What might people be surprised to learn about you? KS: I have been playing drums since I was eight years old. I didn’t have any formal lessons. I learned from watching my dad, who has played in in serval bands over the years, as well as my uncle who played the drums. Q: Hmm. Pounding on sheet metal and pounding on drums. What else do you enjoy doing outside of work? KS: I like to mountain bike, go for hikes on nature trails, bird watching and photography and woodworking. I collect Hot Wheels model cars, enjoy attending hot rod car shows and classic car shows, plus travelling around Michigan with my wife. And spending time with our granddaughter.