Senior finds passion for working on cars

Some seniors have time for senioritis. Daniel Martin doesn't.

That's because he's working part time at auto repair shop, pursuing one of his main passions.

“I work at an autobody shop called Concours Autobody in Campbell,” Martin said. “Most people who come in are either there because they got into an accident  and their car is damaged or someone who wants their dream car to be restored.”

Martin, who owns a 1996 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra, has been in love with cars ever since he was a child.

“I got into cars when I was very little because all I played with was hot wheels,” Martin said.

For Martin, working at the auto shop has many benefits.

“I started working because I wanted to add things to my car like modifications or eventually have enough money to buy a new car,” Martin said. “Anyone that knows me knows that I’m addicted to cars and that is the main reason why I choose to work at the autobody shop.”

Putting in 17 to 20 hours a week, Martin spends his time scuffing cars, preparing them for paint and removing car parts so his boss can repair the car.

“Once my boss fixes the problem, which could be a dent, rust, or new paint job, he gives my back the car then I put every piece I took off back on,” Martin said. “Then I wash and wax the car and move onto the next one.”

His parents have been supportive of him in his hobby.

“My family is happy because they know I like cars so much and because I have my own money now so I don't keep asking them,” Martin said.

For Martin working with cars is not a passing fad. For him, working with cars is a passion which he wants to pursue.

“I would like to work with cars in the future… in terms of design them,” Martin said. “However, the job I have now is a fun job for high school.”

Martin enjoys working at the shop remarking that it has taught him new things he would otherwise would have not found out and has some advice for those thinking about getting a job.

“Just go after something you really enjoy. Even if you have no experience working, it's worth giving it a shot,” Martin said. “Also, don't get discouraged if it takes a while to find a job. Patience is a virtue.”

Martin said his job has been more of an opportunity than a burden.

“Working as a second semester senior is not that difficult for me personally because I am able to manage both school and work well,” Martin said. “If you give all your effort to something it will work out.”