The Birth of Dynamic Diesel
In my search to discover what I truly wanted to do with my life, I explored many corners of the automotive industry — from retail parts to warehouse distribution to wholesale operations. Eventually, I transitioned to the repair side and began my career as a mechanic.
In 1980, I found my passion in the world of diesel.
After nearly 12 years and two different employers, I grew tired of being told how to do my job — even when those directions went against my ethics. In December of 1991, I made the decision to quit and begin a new chapter as a self-employed mechanic.
With the support of my wife and family, I dove headfirst into this new adventure. I knew the automotive and light-duty diesel markets were on the verge of major growth, and I wanted to be at the forefront of it. Beyond that, I had no clear plan — no startup capital, no building, just determination and faith that things would fall into place.
The first piece of the puzzle was a small, affordable building. The landlord, gracious and supportive, offered it for $500 a month with no lease and the freedom to walk away at any time if things didn’t work out.
Next came the challenge of securing operating capital. Using my pickup as collateral, I obtained an $8,000 loan — despite our new accountant insisting it couldn’t be done with so little.
But the bank approved, and in January 1992, my journey officially began.
By September of that same year, my landlord had completed a new building, and we moved into part of it. We continued to lease from him until September 2003, when I was finally able to purchase a building in Snohomish — the next step in what would become the continuing story of Dynamic Diesel.