Ritchie Wimmer’s career is a compelling blend of oil-stained hands, personal growth, and a powerful sense of purpose. Known as the owner of Wimmer's Automotive in Morro Bay, CA, Wimmer is also a standout auto tech teacher and mentor at Morro Bay High School. But his path to the classroom wasn't a straight line—it was forged through experience, hardship, and an unrelenting passion for cars and people.
Wimmer is now recognized as one of the finalists for the 2024–2025 Instructor of the Year competition, presented by B’laster Corporation in collaboration with the North American Council of Automotive Teachers (NACAT). His nomination is a testament to the lasting impact he’s made on students and the auto repair community alike.
A Lifelong Love for Cars
Ritchie’s connection to cars began early—building model cars, racing go-karts, and constantly working with his hands. His journey initially led him to study engineering at Cal Poly Pomona, but the traditional classroom setting didn't match his need to stay active and engaged. He spent his off-hours working restaurant jobs and fixing cars in his garage. “Engineering just felt like an office job, and I wanted to do the work, not sit behind a desk,” Wimmer reflected.
That realization led to a transformative four-year apprenticeship under master tech John Neiswanger, which gave Wimmer the skills and confidence to purchase the repair business in 2013: Wimmer's Automotive. As the shop grew, so did his awareness of a troubling industry-wide problem—the shortage of friendly, knowledgeable, and skilled automotive professionals. “Vehicles are evolving rapidly, and so is the need for technicians who can evolve with them,” he explained.
A Shift in Focus
The COVID-19 pandemic provided Wimmer with an opportunity to reevaluate his role. He stepped away from the front counter and focused on staff training and shop operations. This internal shift sparked something deeper—a calling to teach. That eventually led to his current role at Morro Bay High School, where he found what he now sees as his true purpose. “I found myself most fulfilled when teaching students—not just about cars, but about life,” he said.
A Real Shop, Real Lessons
Wimmer's classroom operates more like a real-world auto shop than a traditional school lab. Students start their day by checking in, just like professional techs. They’re involved in all aspects of operations—from diagnosing issues and ordering parts to managing warranties. “This isn’t pretend. We run it like a real shop,” Wimmer said. But he doesn’t just focus on tools and torque specs—he builds confidence and character, too.
“Mentorship matters. I let my students know I’m there for them. That kind of support can be life-changing,” he added.
“It really made me stop and think about what I wanted to do with the rest of my time,” Wimmer shared. That moment not only shaped his perspective—it became a core part of his teaching. He openly shares the story with his students to stress the importance of safety and strategic thinking in the shop. “One mistake can cost everything,” he warns, teaching them to double-check their work and always respect the danger involved in automotive repair.
Building the Future—One Student at a Time
Today, Wimmer’s impact extends far beyond engines and exhaust systems. He’s a guide, a mentor, and an advocate for the future of the industry. His students don’t just leave with technical skills—they leave with life skills, a strong work ethic, and a deep respect for the trade.
His nomination for Instructor of the Year isn’t just a personal achievement—it’s recognition of the difference he’s making every single day.
As one of six national finalists, the winner will be announced in May 2025. Until then, Wimmer continues to show up—day after day, lesson after lesson—with grease on his hands and passion in his heart.
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This article was adapted from Doug Kaufman’s original piece on Tomorrow’s Technician, published February 21, 2025. Visit their site for more instructor spotlights and automotive education news.