Today we’d like to introduce you to Matthew Proctor.
Hi Matthew, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started in the Automotive Industry working when I was about 20 as an Apprentice Mechanic at Marietta Sportscar because my master mechanic was having back surgery. I originally got into the automotive business because I wanted to be able to help friends and family with an honest opinion and give advice to those who aren’t skilled with cars. I worked there for several years and then moved on to several other shops before I transitioned to working to the parts side and started working at NAPA. From there I eventually progressed to working for Toyota in Canton as a Parts Specialist in their body shop and I have been there for 5 years now. Through it all I have focused on learning more about cars and being able to use that knowledge to help out others and give honest advice and to be able to make connections for people to have an honest automotive shop they can trust. Being able to use my connections to help everyday people out with a big part of their life in their cars has been a great use of my knowledge. I also have followed my passion for cigars and started working part time at Maxwell’s Cigar Bar in Woodstock.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road for me. I’ve had to move around to several shops and different positions whether it be as a mechanic starting out then to being a parts specialist and a Manager of Tire Sales for Firestone and back to being a Parts Specialist at Toyota. Definitely finding where I’m supposed to be has been a struggle. Being in automotive has lead to long days, injuries at work and dealing with angry customers and having to realize that people are angry at the situation and not at me personally.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a Parts Specialist for Toyota. I specifically work in their Body Shop in Canton. I also work at cigar bar part time on the Weekends. I’m most proud of being able to figure out problems on the logistics side of sourcing parts and finding hard to find parts. I love working at Maxwell’s Cigar Bar and being able people to find an enjoyable smoke whether they are new to cigars or a cigar aficionado and be able to unwind and relax after a hard days work. What sets me apart from my others is my determination to get the job done and working hard no matter how rough it gets and staying cool under pressure.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
I’m a Shriner and I love to bucket and raise money for Shriners Childrens Hospital in my free time. I spend most of my free time trying to bring awareness of Shriners Childrens Hospital and the great work that they do in changing Childrens lives at no cost to the children or there families.
Contact Info:
