Today, we’d like to introduce you to Dev Watts.
Hi Dev, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Alright, buckle up because here’s the story of how a 9-year-old kid went from daydreaming in his dad’s ’69 Camaro to revving up his own horsepower empire. I’m nine years old, and my pop is really that guy…. cruising down the street in THE FINEST car.
First of all, how did you get that car, pops? Obviously, God had a bigger purpose. The roar of the engine, the sleek curves, the smell of burning rubber—it was a sensory explosion. That moment ignited something inside me, something that said, “Hey kid, you belong in the world of cars.” #BigTurboEnergy
But let’s be real, figuring out how to turn that passion into a career? Figuring out how to make money (Cause them bills be billing” That took some time. I mean, I started off as a People and Culture Expert/Talent Acquisition Recruiter, working with big shots like Google. Sure, I was good at finding top-notch talent, but my heart was always with horsepower.
So here’s where things get interesting. I realized that being a badass at finding talent isn’t all that different from building a killer engine. It’s all about attention to detail, finding the right components, and assembling them with precision. And let’s not forget the secret sauce: surrounding yourself with people who elevate you, who bring that undeniable vibe to the table.
With that mindset, I dove headfirst into entrepreneurship. I leaned on my knack for spotting talent to assemble a team that’s not just good but freaking extraordinary. I don’t do regular people. My team is EXTRAORDINARY. These are the folks who share my passion for cars, who understand that every project is a work of art, and who push me to be better every damn day.
And you know what? It’s working. Through faith, purpose, and a whole lot of hustle, I’ve carved out my own place in the automotive world. I’m not just building cars—I’m crafting experiences, turning dreams into reality, and leaving tire marks on the industry.
So yeah, you might wonder what an HR pro knows about classic cars. But when you mix passion, talent, and a whole lot of grit, there’s no limit to what you can achieve. I’m living proof of that. And hey, if you ever need some boost therapy, just give me a shout. I’ll take you for a ride in my car #1CleanT. I’ll make sure it’s a trip you won’t forget.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Let me tell you, the road to where I am today has been anything but smooth. It was like navigating through a foggy night without a map. I spent years (BIG YEARS) wandering, unsure if I was even on the right path. Doubt clouded my every move, creating a storm of uncertainty. Cause… if you are doing what you were created to do, shouldn’t the money be flowing in to match that energy? Sometimes it happens like that, but most times it doesn’t.
You see, being an entrepreneur isn’t just about making money or chasing success. It’s about finding your purpose, your calling, and being absolutely certain that you’re walking the path meant for you. And trust me, I had my fair share of moments when I questioned everything.
But here’s the thing—I firmly believe that once you align your steps, prayers, desires, and mission with what BIG GOD has in store for you… Then, that’s when everything falls into place. It’s like flipping a switch. Suddenly, the fog clears, and you can see the road ahead with crystal clarity. Right now… it’s very clear… BIG CLEAR.
Nowadays, I’m all in. I’ve found my groove and my purpose, and I couldn’t be happier. Sure, I’m not taking bi-weekly trips to Italy just yet, but that’s okay. I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be, building my empire one step at a time. And you know what the best part is? I’ve learned to trust my gut, even when it means turning down big bucks from clients who just don’t vibe with me. Because at the end of the day, my peace of mind is priceless
We’ve been impressed with Watts Performance Solutions, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Alright, let me paint you a picture of what we’re all about at #TeamWatts. We’re not your average auto shop—we’re the dream team for anyone rocking a 1986 or 1987 Buick Grand National. When it comes to unleashing the full potential of these classic beasts, nobody does it better than us. To keep it simple, we build horsepower packages.
Our clients don’t just love our work, they’re obsessed with it. They’re blowing up our phones daily, begging us to sprinkle some of our magic on their rides. But here’s the catch: if it’s not a Grand National, it’s not our playground. We specialize, we excel, and we dominate in our niche.
So, what’s our secret sauce? Experience, talent, and a whole lot of vision. See, I may not have a single mechanical certification to my name, but what I lack in grease monkey know-how, I make up for in my eye for talent. As a talent acquisition expert, my mission is simple: assemble the best damn team in the world. And let me tell you, every person, every part, every resource—we’re all handpicked for one thing: excellence.
With locations in Carrollton, GA, and Oakland, California, we’re spreading our brand of automotive awesomeness far and wide. But here’s the kicker: being #TeamWatts isn’t just a label—it’s a certification of excellence. We don’t do regular. We don’t do mediocre. We do win. Period.
When you roll with us, you’re not just getting a car upgrade—you’re getting a ticket to the winner’s circle. Your ride will turn heads at every car show, it’ll purr like a kitten, and it’ll leave the competition choking on your dust. That’s the #TeamWatts guarantee. So buckle up because, with us, the ride of your life is just getting started.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Alright, let me drop some wisdom on you—lessons learned straight from the school of hard knocks.
Lesson number one: Profit is king. Look, you can bring in a truckload of cash, but if you’re not making a dime of profit, you might as well be running a lemonade stand with the cutest kid in town. Been there, done that. My first couple of years in the game? Yeah, they were rough. I was bleeding money left and right. But now? Now, I move with purpose. Every decision I make is about that bottom line. If it ain’t making dollars, it ain’t making sense.
Lesson number two: Connections are currency. My network? That’s my golden ticket, and I guard it like a dragon guards its treasure. Do you want to know what I’m cooking? You gotta come through me. My connections, my rules. It’s as simple as that.
And last but not least, lesson number three: Consistency is key. Let me tell you, finding your groove—spiritually, mentally, emotionally, socially, culturally, financially—that’s the secret sauce right there. It’s about staying true to yourself, day in and day out, no matter what life throws your way.
So there you have it, folks. Profit, connections, and consistency—are the pillars of success. Take it from someone who’s been in the trenches and come out swinging. And trust me, when you live by these principles, ain’t nothing gonna stand in your way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://calendly.com/wattsperformance/30min?month=2024-03
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wattsperformance/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WattsPerformance/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devin-watts-186a459a/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@wattsperformance
Image Credits
Scott Witty
