Sarah Mitchell
Sarah has spent over a decade advising small and family-owned auto repair shops on growth, hiring, and customer experience. With an MBA from Western and a background in small-business lending, she has worked directly with more than 200 independent Canadian shops on pricing, marketing, and CRA-compliant bookkeeping. She writes about the operational and regulatory side of running a profitable independent garage in Canada.
465 articles by Sarah
Interoperability and Bill C-294: Why Your Diagnostic Tools Must Talk
Bill C-294 requires automotive software to interoperate. Learn how this benefits independent shops and what it means for your tool investments.
The High Cost of Recalibration: When to Outsource to the Dealership
ADAS recalibration is expensive and specialized. Learn when to invest in equipment and when to outsource to dealerships to maximize profitability.
AI Receptionists for Auto Shops: Can Bots Handle Your Appointment Booking?
AI receptionists answer calls and book appointments. Learn whether automation improves customer experience or frustrates callers.
SkilledTradesBC for Employers: A Step-by-Step Sponsorship Guide
SkilledTradesBC helps employers sponsor apprentices in British Columbia. Learn the sponsorship process, requirements, and how to build a formal apprenticeship program for your shop.
Creating a Culture of Safety: Reducing WSIB Premiums in the Long Run
Workplace safety reduces injuries and WSIB premiums. Learn how to create a safety culture, prevent accidents, and lower insurance costs through systematic improvements.
Hiring Your First Service Advisor: Finding the Face of Your Business
Your service advisor is the customer-facing front of your shop. Learn what qualities matter, how to hire the right person, and train them for success.
Apprenticeship Completion Grants in Manitoba: What MPI Offers Your Staff
Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) offers apprenticeship completion grants. Learn how your technicians can access funding and how you can support their training.
Workplace Ethics and the Side Hustle: Managing Techs Who Work from Home
Some technicians run side businesses or work from home. Learn how to address workplace ethics, manage conflicts of interest, and set clear policies.
Bill C-244 Passed: What Right to Repair Means for Your Diagnostic Scanners
Bill C-244 removes copyright barriers preventing independent shops from accessing vehicle diagnostic data. Learn what this means for your scanner investments and repair rights.
Choosing Shop Management Software: AutoLeap vs. Mitchell 1 vs. Shopmonkey
Compare three leading shop management platforms for independent garages. Evaluate features, pricing, and fit for your repair business workflow.
Employee Benefits for Small Shops: How to Compete with Big Dealerships
Small shops can't match dealership salaries, but smart benefits packages attract and retain quality technicians. Learn affordable benefit options that make your shop competitive.
Dealing with Burnout: Mental Health Resources for the Automotive Sector
Technician burnout is a crisis in the automotive sector. Learn to recognize burnout signs, support technician mental health, and create a workplace culture that prevents exhaustion.