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Meet The Team
Where shift happens!
Our team
Technician
About Me
AJ is the kind of guy who’s always pushing the limits—just like the Viper he’d be tearing up the road in. Fueled by plates of chicken fettuccine alfredo, he spends his time tinkering with his “big boy toys” and dialing things in to go bigger, faster, and better every time.
Technician
About Me
Fred is the kind of guy you can count on, just like an old Toyota Camry: dependable, steady, and always ready to get the job done. When he is not helping keep cars running right, he enjoys relaxing with his koi fish and probably dreaming about his next plate of Mexican food.
Technician
About Me
Martin brings speed and precision to the shop, much like his dream ride—the Ferrari F40: slick, fast, and built to perform. When he’s not dialing in vehicles, you’ll likely find him out on the water ocean fishing or kicking back with some fresh sushi.
Technician
About Me
Moe keeps things running smooth and under control—kind of like the AMG GTR he’d be cruising in: powerful, underrated, and built to perform at a high level without needing all the attention. When he’s not leading the team, you’ll find him enjoying some Mokski or out on the soccer field, bringing that same energy and precision to the game.
Technician
About Me
Josh is all about balance—fast and reliable, just like the M4 he’d be behind the wheel of. Whether he’s enjoying a solid plate of spaghetti or spending time building drift cars and making memories with his daughter, he brings both passion and heart to everything he does in and out of the shop.
Technician
About Me
Craig Martin’s love for cars started early, inspired by The Beach Boys and a fascination with everything fast and mechanical. While others were focused on homework, Craig was busy teaching himself how engines worked and turning his garage into a hands-on learning lab.
That passion eventually led him to Monterey Peninsula College’s Automotive
Technology program, where everything clicked. He quickly became a teacher’s aide, earned his first ASE certifications, and hasn’t looked back since.
Craig has worked in a variety of shops, but found something special at Shift’n Gears—a culture built on constant improvement, innovation, and genuine care for the community. He thrives on the balance of mental challenge and hands-on work, plus the ongoing excuse to add to his tool collection.
Outside the shop, Craig enjoys disc golf, spending time with his daughter, and rucking.
Technician
About Me
Nate Zippi chose the automotive industry driven by a deep curiosity for how things work and a passion for improving them. Whether he’s diagnosing a complex issue or replacing critical components, Nate takes pride in being part of the solution and continuously expanding his knowledge.
At Shift’n Gears, Nate has found a team that shares his mindset. The shop’s commitment to constant improvement, innovation, and forward momentum makes it a standout in the industry—and being part of that culture pushes him to grow both professionally and personally.
Outside of work, Nate spends his time with his wife and three kids, enjoying fishing trips, soccer games, and making the most of everyday moments together.
Technician
About Me
Richard Heystee chose the automotive industry because it perfectly blends his passion for working with both vehicles and people. In a field that’s constantly evolving, he enjoys the challenge of staying sharp, learning something new every day, and delivering solutions that truly make a difference.
He joined Shift’n Gears for its reputation of top-tier workmanship and exceptional customer care—values he takes pride in upholding with every interaction. For Richard, the most rewarding part of the job is helping customers stay safe on the road while building genuine, long-lasting relationships along the way.
Outside the shop, Richard enjoys spending quality time with his wife and children, and you’ll often find him out on a run, staying active and recharged.
Owner
About Me
We are Shift'n expectations
Automotive Repair Tips from Trusted Paso Robles Mechanics
How to Fix Transmission Slipping When Accelerating
When you hit the gas pedal, you expect your car to speed up smoothly. But
7 Of The Best Tips To Boost Fuel Efficiency
In a world where every drop of fuel matters, both for the environment and for your budget, the quest for better fuel efficiency isn’t just about saving money. It’s a conscious effort to reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to a greener planet. Your car, that trusty companion on the road, has the potential to be more fuel-efficient than you might think.
The Top 5 Signs Your Car Needs a New Air Filter
Just like we need clean air to function at our best, so does your vehicle. Your car’s engine relies on a steady flow of clean air to operate efficiently and effectively. Over time, the air filter in your vehicle can become clogged and dirty, hindering its ability to provide the necessary airflow.