Moving from the newspaper field, Pam Oakes opened Pam’s Motor City Automotive and Tires in 1995 with just herself as an employee. The company now is a 12-bay shop with 10 other ASE-certified technicians. Four of them are Master Technicians, and the shop is Blue Seal certified.

Oakes stresses education to her employees, through ACDelco online training and outside sources like MOOG, Standard and NAPA. The staff translates that training into information the customers can understand.

Oakes also is involved in her community through the Rotary Club and Chamber of Commerce, and the automotive industry as a member of the Car Care Council’s Women’s Board and as a NAPA Autocare Center.