A passion for cars:
My love for automobiles has been a lifelong journey, officially beginning 42 years ago when I started working at a local car dealership. But my story begins even earlier.
Some of you may remember me from the Ferndale Roller Skating Rink, which my family owned during the first 22 years of my life. Skating wasn’t just a pastime. it was in my blood. My brother Dale and I were professional roller skaters in the Northwest, following in the footsteps of our parents, world-renowned teachers who even trained Olympic-class ice skaters. To us, though, they were just Mom and Dad.
I was on skates before I could walk, maybe those tiny wheels were my first “cars.” Skating shaped my early years through Singles, Figures, Pairs, Dance, Free Dance, Speed Skating, and Hockey. Traveling across the country and making lifelong friends throughout Whatcom County and beyond made those years unforgettable.
FROM SKATES TO CARS:
When the Ferndale Skating Rink closed, I planted roots in Washington, started a family, and discovered a new passion: cars. This led me into the automotive world, where I’ve spent the past 42 years building a career, fueling my love for all things on wheels, and connecting with people, just like I did on the skating rink.
My first hands-on car project was restoring a 1967 Chevy Malibu, completing the interior myself and hiring a professional for bodywork and paint. That project sparked a deeper interest in car restoration, leading to my second project: a custom, body-changing 1976 Pontiac Firebird. Inspired by the elegance of a Ferrari, this car featured parts from multiple vehicles, custom bodywork, and electric doors with shaved handles for a sleek, seamless look. Originally painted Maserati maroon, it later transformed into stunning blue metallic with a hood mural depicting eagles flying over a landscape, a tribute to the Firebird.
BUILDING AUTOMOTIVE EXOERTISE:
Over the years, I’ve worked across the automotive industry:
• At car dealerships, learning the ins and outs of sales and customer service
• In auto body shops, mastering vehicle repair and restoration
• In automotive parts warehouses, understanding logistics and inventory
After a brief break, I stayed involved by attending car shows, networking with enthusiasts, and continuing to expand my knowledge. Eventually, I found success as a car salesman for 15 years, learning how to connect people with the vehicles that best fit their needs.
CREATING A ONE STOP AUTOMOTIVE PLATFORM:
Today, I’m channeling my experience into a new venture: PNW Car Smart, a comprehensive website designed to serve the automotive community. Our platform simplifies the search for information, services, and vehicles while supporting businesses advertising on the site. Our goal is to provide a free, accessible service that connects people with everything they need in the automotive world. Even while running this platform, I continue feeding my passion for cars, visiting museums like the LeMay Car Museum in Tacoma and the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, and attending events such as the SEMA Show, the world’s largest automotive trade show.
JOIN ME ON THE JOURNEY:
I’m excited to share my knowledge and experience, bringing the community together and making a lasting impact on the world of automobiles. Join me as we create easier access and better mobility for everyone in the Pacific Northwest. Let’s roll!
"Work hard in silence, let success speak for itself.
Stay humble in victory, for true greatness lies not in wealth or titles,
but in the kindness and integrity that make us worthy of being human."
Why choose us?
At Pacific Northwest Car Smart, we believe that taking care of your car should be hassle-free. Instead of searching multiple sites, come to us for a comprehensive, easy-to-use directory of all the car services you need. We vet each business, so you know you’re working with reliable professionals.
How you benefit:
Compare services and prices across businesses
Find exclusive offers and discounts
Access everything you need in one place