Meet Tim (aka Boss Man)
At 28, many of us are still figuring out what we want to do with our lives. But for Tim, founder and owner of Stellar Autoworks, that’s when he opened Stellar. With a passion for fixing things that started as a hobby, Tim turned a love for cars into a business with a community of loyal customers.
We sat down with Tim to learn more about him, what makes him tick, and why Stellar.
What makes Stellar Autoworks special?
For Tim, being the owner and founder of Stellar Autoworks isn’t just about running a business, it’s about creating a place where people thrive. His goal is to see his employees succeed and grow, mentoring them and helping them take the next step in their careers.
The community of loyal customers also makes Stellar special. Tim is proud of the Stellar community, many who have been bringing their vehicles to Stellar for 10+ years. He knows the importance of every interaction and visit to the shop and doesn’t take this for granted.
What do you look for in an employee?
When hiring, Tim understands that technical skills are important, but he’s also looking for a positive attitude, the ability to listen, and the willingness to keep learning. “There’s always something new to learn,” he says, emphasizing the importance of staying humble and open to new knowledge, which is crucial in an ever-evolving field like auto repair.
What led you to open Stellar?
What began as a hobby, fixing up old cars and learning the ropes, turned into his career. Initially, he studied aviation in school. However, he decided to go a different route and enrolled at Dunwoody Technical College, where he honed his skills and deepened his understanding of the automotive repair industry.
After graduation, Tim worked in various repair shops. It was at these jobs that he learned as much about what not to do as what to do in the auto repair business. Those early jobs gave him a clear understanding of the pitfalls in the industry and he learned valuable lessons that would guide him when he decided to start his own business.
A few years down the road, Tim pursued a degree from the Minnesota School of Business. Fun fact: one of his professors is now a loyal Stellar customer!
What makes Stellar Autoworks special?
It’s not just about the technical aspect of the work (don’t get us wrong, that’s very important!) – but it’s how you treat customers when they walk in the door, sticking to your word when it comes to timing and price, and building a positive workplace where employees can grow in their career.
What is the coolest car you’ve worked on?
Over the years, Tim has worked on his fair share of cool cars, but one car stands out in his mind: the Audi Quattro Coupe, a car that helped put Audi on the map. Working on such a historic car was both a challenge and a privilege and it’s a project Tim will never forget.
What is your dream car?
While it may not be what you’d expect, at this stage (husband, father of two boys, weekend explorer) Tim has his heart set on a Class B Mercedes Sprinter van. The Sprinter is perfect for someone who appreciates quality and functionality, two things that Tim, as an expert in the field, values.
As Steller Autoworks continues to grow, Tim’s vision remains focused on both the craft and the people behind it. Whether he’s solving a tough problem in the shop, mentoring a new team member, or helping a customer get back on the road, Tim’s passion for cars and for his community is at the heart of everything he does.
Steller Autoworks is more than just a car repair shop, it’s a place where Tim’s vision, experience, and love for cars come together to create something truly special.