Certifications

• ASE Master Technician

• ASE L1 Certified

• MACS EPA 609 Certified

• MRAP (Mine Resistant Ambush Protected) Field Level Maintenance Certified
   

About Lester

As a young kid growing up in New Zealand, I was always around automobiles. My dad and both of my uncles raced cars and, at some point, owned salvage yards. 

My dad stopped racing before I was old enough to remember and moved to the States, but my uncles raced Saloon cars and dirt track midgets with great success. Going to the race tracks, taking in the sights and sounds, and especially smelling race fuel is one of my fondest memories growing up.

After I finished high school I was a typical teenager that had no idea what I wanted to do. My dad, who had already moved to Texas, asked me if I wanted to come here to live. A year and half later. I came to the US.

My Dad owned a salvage yard, and during the first 2 ½ years here, I worked for him. Anyone who has worked with family know that is not an easy thing to do.  Additionally, being a teenager who knows everything and working with your father who knows nothing was always a source of conflict.

When I decided to venture out on my own I started working at mostly at independent repair shops. I did not receive any formal training. Instead, I learned on the job. As my knowledge and diagnostic skills improved, I eventually went to work at dealerships.

In 2008, I went to Iraq to work as a contractor. I originally went as a vehicle A/C technician.  Over the following 3 years, I was promoted and ended up overseeing 60 employees. With the skills I learned, the friends I met and the assistance we provided the military, I consider it as some of the most rewarding work I have ever been a part of.

After returning to Texas, I went to an independent Lexus shop.  I started back as a technician, but I decided I wanted out of “turning wrenches” and moved to a Service advisor position. This was a great experience, as I learned an interesting perspective from the customers point of view.

The people I work with at ALLDATA are truly some of the most knowledgeable, friendly, and professional technicians I have ever worked with. I am excited to be a part of the Tech-Assist team and look forward to growing with the team for many years to come.