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Ratchet + Wrench Radio

125 Years of People-First Leadership: What Shops Can Learn from Grote Industries

Newly appointed VP of HR Josh Wilber shares how culture, communication, and values-driven hiring have helped Grote Industries retain employees for decades—and what independent repair shops can apply today.
July 15, 2026
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Grote Industries
Josh Wilber
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Why do employees stay at a company for 25, 40, even 50 years? In this episode of Ratchet+Wrench Radio, Josh Wilber discusses the hiring and retention lessons behind Grote Industries’ 125-year legacy. From identifying future leaders and navigating generational shifts to avoiding costly hiring compromises, Wilber shares practical strategies shop owners can use right now to build stronger teams, improve retention, and create a workplace people genuinely want to be part of.

 

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About the Author

Christine Schaffran
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Christine Schaffran

Editor-in-Chief

Christine Schaffran is the Editor-in-Chief for Ratchet+Wrench magazine at Endeavor B2B. She is an award-winning journalist, having covered both commercial and industry magazines and newspapers during her career. She previously served as Editor-in-Chief for another publisher for 17 years prior to joining Endeavor. When she's not spending time with her husband and son, you'll find her in the kitchen experimenting with new recipes and delicious dishes to try. 

 

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