Inspiring Conversations with Melody Gullett of Stick Shift Driver Training School

Today we’d like to introduce you to Melody Gullett.

Hi Melody, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
We originally trained all types of drivers in South Africa on manual transmission vehicles for 29 years and an opportunity arose for us to bring this concept of zero roll-back, zero stall-out method to the USA.
The concept of providing manual transmission driver training here in the United States originated when we emigrated from South Africa in 2000. At that time, manual transmission vehicles were relatively uncommon, and no driving schools offered instruction in this skill. To address this gap, we purchased a manual‑shift vehicle and imported dual controls, which were installed on the passenger side specifically for training purposes.

We introduced the service by marketing through church groups, networking events, and by displaying the name Stick Shift Driver Training on the vehicle itself. Interest grew quickly, and we soon began receiving inquiries from individuals in the Roswell, Sandy Springs, and Norcross areas.

By 2008, candidates preparing for driving positions with UPS began seeking our services. Through word of mouth and personal referrals, we trained a significant number of their prospective drivers prior to their manual‑shift road tests on UPS’s brown trucks. UPS Talent Administrators subsequently began referring drivers directly to our school to develop proficiency in shifting and to gain a thorough understanding of manual transmission operation. They recognized that our specialized zero‑rollback, zero‑stall technique contributed to reduced maintenance costs and produced drivers who were smooth, confident, and vehicle‑conscious.

Our reputation continued to expand, and we were approached by PMC to train their valet attendants in the safe handling and maneuvering of privately owned high‑performance sports cars and other manual‑shift vehicles at hotels, event venues, and parking facilities where PMC operated.

Over the years, our training services have extended to actors and actresses working with Universal Studios, automotive dealerships, vehicle porters, and many others

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?
We have not experienced any struggles as we are professionals in training and business development. It simply meant building a reputation with our guaranteed easy method of driving a manual shift vehicle.

We’ve been impressed with Stick Shift Driver Training School, 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?
The company’s origins trace back to the early 1950s in Johannesburg, South Africa, where previous generations of instructors specialized in teaching manual transmission driving. Collectively, our team brings more than 40 years of experience working with individuals in real-world driving environments.

Our extensive expertise, supported by international training backgrounds, enables us to deliver highly effective instruction in the advanced skill of driving a manual vehicle with efficiency, precision, and smooth shifting techniques.

Most clients achieve a comfortable level of proficiency within a two‑hour session, once they grasp the underlying principles and develop the necessary awareness and “feel” for the vehicle.

Many of our trainees have subsequently traveled abroad for missionary work, business, or leisure, and have confidently rented and driven manual transmission vehicles in various countries.

Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
Reading inspirational and motivational books.

Pricing:

• Pricing depends on the type of course but generally a 2 hour session is $260

Contact Info:

• Website: https://stickshiftdrivertraining.com/