JR (Robert Johns)

JR started in the automotive industry at 19, working his way up from the car wash into the parts department, then as a service advisor, mechanic, and eventually into sales — where he stayed in the top 3 in sales for two years running.

After moving back to South Bend, he earned his CDL, and in 1995 headed down to North Carolina to drive concrete trucks while working on dirt track race cars on the side. That work led him to crew chief roles on three different race teams, and in 1998 he was interviewed for a NASCAR opportunity.

Off and on throughout his career, JR has worked in automotive retail — from the parts counter all the way up to Territory Sales Manager, where he set a sales record that still hasn't been beat.

Today, JR and Mike are both owner operators of Michiana Auto Werks. Between them, they bring hands-on experience in wrenching, sales, customer service, and retail marketing and promotion — all focused on treating customers the right way.