Sylvain’s 50-year journey in collision repair
A remarkable career milestone was reached at Fix Auto Saint John East as technician Sylvain Paradis celebrated an impressive 50-year tenure in the collision repair industry. His unwavering passion and expertise have not only transformed countless damaged vehicles but also inspired a new generation of technicians. This story explores Sylvain’s remarkable journey, his love for the craft, the challenges he faced, and his thoughts on the evolution of the industry.
A ROCKY START, A BRIGHT FUTURE
Sylvain’s journey began in humble surroundings. Born in Quebec, he moved to Ontario at the age of nine, facing the challenge of learning English in a new environment. His fascination with cars ignited when he witnessed his uncle repairing his mother’s wrecked 1967 Impala convertible. “Seeing that car transformed was everything,” Sylvain shares. “I thought, ‘I’m going to be a body man.’”
At just 15 years old, he took a leap of faith and left school to start working at a body shop for $2.00 an hour. “I was eager to learn, and the more complex the job, the better I liked it,” he reminisces.
In 1989, Sylvain moved to the East Coast for love, and he has called it home ever since.
FROM BODYWORK TO FRAME MASTERY
At the start of his career, Sylvain honed his skills through hands-on experiences rather than formal training. “One day, my boss told me, ‘You’re the frame man from now on,’ and I had to figure it out,” he laughs. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of a long-standing relationship with frame repair, earning him the fitting title of “Frame Man.”
Over the years, he faced numerous challenges, including the evolving standards of the collision repair industry. “Years ago, customers had different expectations,” he notes. “Now, with how much people pay for vehicles, they expect perfection, and you are not given as much time to fix cars as you were back in 1989.”
“If you do great work and keep the customers happy, they will return.” This philosophy mirrors the foundational values of Fix Auto, which prioritizes customer satisfaction, quality service, and community trust.
EMBRACING CHANGE
Reflecting on the industry’s transformations, Sylvain has witnessed a significant shift not only in customer demands, but also in vehicle technology. He believes that the fast-paced nature of today’s automotive world, coupled with demanding appraisals, has fundamentally altered the landscape of collision repair.
When Scott, the owner of Fix Auto Saint John (previously known as Scott’s Autobody), was approached to join the Fix Auto banner, Sylvain recognized the changing dynamics of the industry and encouraged him to take the leap. With insurance referrals becoming a paramount, they understood that aligning with a reputable brand like Fix Auto was crucial for survival in the evolving market.
Today, Sylvain is also acutely aware of the challenges of attracting new talent to the industry. “It’s dirty work,” he admits, acknowledging that the hands-on nature of collision repair can be unappealing to the younger generation. Many emerging technicians shy away from the labor-intensive tasks that define the job, contributing to a growing technician shortage. “When the older guys retire, there’s often no one to take over,” he laments, emphasizing the diminishing pool of skilled workers willing to step into these roles.
Despite these shifts, Sylvain remains committed to his craft. His dedication is evident in his mentoring of younger technicians at the shop. “I enjoy teaching those who are eager to learn,” he states. “I want to pass down the knowledge I’ve gained over the years.” By nurturing the next generation of technicians, Sylvain hopes to instill a sense of pride and resilience within them, helping bridge the gap in skills that the industry currently faces.
RESILIENCE AND PASSION
Living with polio since he was two, Sylvain has shown remarkable strength, even as the condition has grown more challenging with time. Recently, he underwent surgery, forcing a six-month break from his job. Yet, with steadfast commitment, he returned to vehicle repair, exemplifying the strength that has driven his industry success. “I missed it,” he reveals, pointing to the deep joy he finds in his work.
His commitment to quality has not gone unnoticed. “We have a good name in the community,” he says proudly. “If you do great work and keep the customers happy, they will return.” This philosophy mirrors the foundational values of Fix Auto, which prioritizes customer satisfaction, quality service, and community trust.
LOOKING TO THE FUTURE
As Sylvain celebrates this milestone, he looks forward to a personal project—a 1979 Bronco he hopes to transform into a show truck. “I love fixing cars and will continue to do so even after retirement,” he affirms, emphasizing that his passion for cars will always remain a part of his life. Reflecting on his 50 years in the industry, Sylvain shares profound life lessons shaped by his experiences, including a tragic car accident that took the lives of four of his siblings during his childhood.
His mother’s words resonate deeply with him: “You always look ahead; you know, whatever happens, happens anyway.” This mantra guides Sylvain as he navigates the complexities of life and work. Her resilience in the face of tragedy has instilled in him a strong belief in staying forward focused and embracing whatever comes next. “You have to appreciate life and follow your passions,” he advocates.
CONCLUSION
Sylvain’s story is a remarkable testament to dedication, resilience, and the joy of a life spent in the collision repair industry. His passion for taking something broken and making it new is at the heart of his career. As he reflects on five decades of transformation, it’s evident that his contributions will resonate throughout the industry for many years to come. At Fix Auto Saint John East, he’s not just a technician—he’s a mentor, a craftsman, and an invaluable part of the community. Here’s to Sylvain and his years of dedication to the craft he loves.
