Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Certification
Timeline
Hi, I’m

Stephen Walz

Creator Fabricator Artist Musician Thinker Doer
La Crosse,WI
Stephen  Walz

Summary

Dynamic Automotive Collision Technician with a proven track record at Pete’s Auto Body, excelling in dent repair mastery and client service. Recognized for meticulous attention to detail and strong leadership skills, I consistently deliver high-quality results while managing tight deadlines and fostering positive relationships with suppliers. Committed to continuous learning and quality improvement.

Overview

2026
years of professional experience
1
Certification

Work History

Pete’s Auto Body

Automotive Collision Technician

Job overview

  • Delivered exceptional service to clients by explaining technical information about their vehicles in clear, understandable terms.
  • Performed fiberglass repairs on a variety of vehicles, showcasing versatility in skillset and ability to adapt to unique challenges.
  • Maintained positive relationships with parts suppliers, securing competitive pricing on materials needed for collision repairs.
  • Ensured high-quality results with meticulous attention to detail when performing color matching and paint application tasks.
  • Demonstrated expertise in the use of various auto body repair tools, including frame machines, hydraulic jacks, and welding equipment.
  • Maximized productivity through effective time management, completing multiple complex projects within tight deadlines.
  • Replaced and repaired vehicle parts according to work order instructions.
  • Installed and removed body panels, doors and fenders of vehicles to access areas of repair.
  • Utilized collision repair hammers, welders and grinders to address bodywork needs.
  • Reassembled and replaced parts to complete body repairs.
  • Inspected vehicles to identify and document repair needs.
  • Tested and adjusted newly repaired vehicles to verify proper function.
  • Filled, sanded and smoothed surfaces to prepare for painting.
  • Prepared surfaces for priming, painting and refinishing.
  • Installed and repaired body panels, doors, hoods, fenders, bumpers and other parts.
  • Applied primers, sealers and other materials prior to painting.
  • Replaced glass, headlights and other lighting and electrical components.
  • Examined vehicles to determine extent of damage and repairs required.
  • Installed interior and exterior trim, including moldings and emblems.
  • Used welding and cutting tools to repair metal body parts.
  • Performed structural and non-structural repairs on variety of vehicle models.
  • Adjusted and replaced doors and windows for proper fit and alignment.
  • Aligned and balanced vehicle frames using laser alignment systems.

Melvin’s in Neillsville WI

Construction Worker

Job overview

  • Utilized hammers, saws, squares, levels, and fastening devices to complete projects.
  • Maintained clean and organized job sites, contributing to a safe working environment for all employees.
  • Assisted with successful, time-sensitive renovations of various structures.
  • Enhanced project efficiency by coordinating with team members and managing resources effectively.
  • Reduced material waste by accurately calculating requirements and optimizing usage throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Contributed to a positive work culture by fostering teamwork among staff through open communication channels, which led to higher overall productivity levels during projects.
  • Installed new structures, updated systems and replaced worn components to bring buildings up to current codes.
  • Improved client satisfaction by delivering high-quality workmanship consistently, following up on feedback, and addressing concerns promptly.
  • Implemented safety protocols, significantly reducing workplace accidents.
  • Led team in high-pressure environments to meet strict deadlines, ensuring project completion on time.
  • Adapted to rapidly changing weather conditions and schedules, ensuring project continuity and efficiency.
  • Conducted comprehensive site evaluations before project initiation, identifying potential challenges early.
  • Coordinated with subcontractors to ensure quality standards, achieving high levels of client satisfaction.
  • Enhanced client trust and project transparency by providing regular progress reports.
  • Used variety of hand and power tools to complete tasks.
  • Cleaned and maintained tools, equipment and worksites.
  • Loaded and unloaded materials onto trucks and trailers.
  • Loaded and unloaded materials and equipment onto and off construction sites.
  • Installed drywall, siding and other structural components.
  • Managed safe and efficient use of tools and equipment on construction sites.
  • Mixed and poured concrete for variety of projects.
  • Assisted in digging, trenching and backfilling trenches and foundations.
  • Worked on sites, installing roofs and other exterior components.
  • Helped with erecting scaffolding and ladders.
  • Operated forklifts and boom lifts to complete various tasks.

American & Foreign Transmissions

R&R Technician

Job overview

  • Completed detailed reports outlining all completed repairs, including root cause analysis findings when applicable.
  • Delivered exceptional customer service through clear communication, timely updates, and follow-up on outstanding issues.
  • Supported inventory management efforts by tracking parts usage, maintaining stock levels, and ordering supplies as needed.
  • Liaised with manufacturers for warranty claims processing as well as obtaining any necessary replacement parts or components during repairs or routine maintenance activities.
  • Contributed to increased efficiency by identifying process improvements and implementing solutions accordingly.
  • Stayed current on industry trends, advancements, and best practices through continuous professional development.
  • Demonstrated adaptability by quickly learning new systems and technologies, enabling seamless integration of service offerings as required.
  • Improved team productivity by sharing expertise in various R&R techniques and tools.
  • Increased customer satisfaction by providing efficient repair services and technical support.
  • Enhanced equipment functionality by performing thorough diagnostics and troubleshooting tasks.
  • Replaced damaged, missing, or defective parts with new and refurbished components.
  • Performed diagnostic and troubleshooting procedures to find and identify root causes of mechanical issues.
  • Serviced vehicles according to OEM recommended maintenance schedules for oil changes, engine tune-ups and fluid changes.
  • Completed full vehicle inspections to check for leaks, damage, or other issues of concern.
  • Troubleshot and diagnosed faults with vehicle systems and components using OEM-specific code readers, diagnostic trees, and online knowledge bases.
  • Analyzed and located malfunctions in brakes, motors, switches, and control systems.
  • Maintained accurate records of time and materials required to perform repairs and service.
  • Tested newly installed equipment to determine proper functionality and compliance with regulations.
  • Used specialized tools to detect leaks in gas and refrigerant systems.
  • Repaired and replaced worn and damaged components.
  • Repaired brake, exhaust, electrical and other systems for domestic automotive brands.
  • Checked brake systems and determined need of pad replacement, disc turning or other maintenance requirements.
  • Explained maintenance and repair needs to customers and offered advice on preventative maintenance.
  • Investigated customer complaints to identify cause of malfunctions.
  • Serviced air conditioning systems, changed and topped off fluids and completed maintenance inspections.
  • Inspected damaged vehicles to estimate repair labor cost and required parts expense.
  • Explained estimates and determined repair timelines to manage customer expectations.
  • Coordinated with parts department to determine availability of necessary components.
  • Tore down, repaired and rebuilt faulty assemblies such as power systems, steering systems and linkages.
  • Corrected faults and maximized performance by rebuilding systems and individual components.
  • Utilized special alignment equipment and wheel-balancing machines to align wheels, axles, frames and steering mechanisms of automobiles.

Brick Oven Bakery

Baker’s Assistant

Job overview

  • Collaborated with local artists to host workshops and events, expanding the studio''s offerings and engaging the community.
  • Increased studio revenue by implementing effective marketing strategies and attracting new clients.
  • Cultivated partnerships with other businesses in the area for cross-promotional opportunities that benefited both parties involved.
  • Negotiated contracts with suppliers for cost-effective purchasing of equipment and materials.
  • Sought out opportunities for professional development by attending industry conferences, workshops, and seminars to stay abreast of best practices and emerging trends in the field.
  • Recruited trained, and managed staff members to ensure top-quality service delivery across all areas of the business.
  • Invested in state-of-the-art equipment to enhance client experiences while providing them access to cutting-edge technology within their chosen disciplines or artistic pursuits.
  • Oversaw financial management tasks such as budgeting, accounting, payroll processing, and invoicing.
  • Utilized social media platforms effectively for increased brand awareness and visibility among potential clients online communities.
  • Implemented safety protocols to minimize risk of injury or damage during sessions or events.
  • Maintained a clean, organized studio space to ensure an enjoyable experience for all clients.
  • Managed day-to-day business operations.
  • Consulted with customers to assess needs and propose optimal solutions.

Self Employed Services

Tattoo Studio Owner/Artist Practitioner
04.1998 - Current

Job overview

  • Collaborated with local artists to host workshops and events, expanding the studio''s offerings and engaging the community.
  • Increased studio revenue by implementing effective marketing strategies and attracting new clients.
  • Cultivated partnerships with other businesses in the area for cross-promotional opportunities that benefited both parties involved.
  • Negotiated contracts with suppliers for cost-effective purchasing of equipment and materials.
  • Sought out opportunities for professional development by attending industry conferences, workshops, and seminars to stay abreast of best practices and emerging trends in the field.
  • Recruited trained, and managed staff members to ensure top-quality service delivery across all areas of the business.
  • Invested in state-of-the-art equipment to enhance client experiences while providing them access to cutting-edge technology within their chosen disciplines or artistic pursuits.
  • Oversaw financial management tasks such as budgeting, accounting, payroll processing, and invoicing.
  • Utilized social media platforms effectively for increased brand awareness and visibility among potential clients online communities.
  • Implemented safety protocols to minimize risk of injury or damage during sessions or events.
  • Maintained a clean, organized studio space to ensure an enjoyable experience for all clients.
  • Managed day-to-day business operations.
  • Consulted with customers to assess needs and propose optimal solutions.

Vivint Solar

Sales Manager
05.2013 - 04.2015

Job overview

Door to door salesmen working the entire process from learning the ins and out, pros and cons about how the individual will have satisfaction through the entire contract. This honesty and full disclosure about the product allowed me to dominate the field in short order. I became #4 in all of Central California in 6 months time.

I absolutely loved the job. When I believe in the product I’m selling I get our clients just as excited and involve them in the process as many ch as possible if that’s the strategy I choose. With some less is more.

To go through the process would involve me writing a small book. I’d much rather dive into the topic with the individual. If you would like

To hear the

Pitch, I’d be glad to entertain anybody that would like to hear it.

The hurdles and challenges I faces throughout the start was enough to make a man cry. Failure was NOT an option. I’d still be selling solar if my partner and I was willing to stay in California with our new daughter Azalea.

Education

Logan High
La Crosse, WI

Graduate Certificate
1990

University Overview

Skills

  • Adhesive bonding techniques
  • Workplace safety adherence
  • Plastic repair techniques
  • Dent repair mastery
  • Suspension systems
  • Continuous learning mindset
  • Expert metalworking
  • Quality control measures
  • Computerized measuring systems
  • Advanced welding techniques
  • Damage assessment accuracy
  • Frame straightening proficiency
  • Structural component repair
  • Vehicle disassembly and reassembly
  • Glass replacement expertise
  • Corrosion protection application
  • Excellent work ethic
  • Auto body repair
  • Hand tool proficiency
  • Welding experience
  • Power tool proficiency
  • Quality-focused
  • Glass installation
  • Deadline oriented
  • Welding
  • Repair assessment
  • Concise time-management
  • Client service
  • Spray gun operation
  • Surface sanding
  • Welding techniques
  • Defect removal
  • Body panel repair
  • Welding proficiency
  • Schematics experience
  • Spot welding
  • Strong leadership skills
  • Auto body fabrication
  • Commitment to quality
  • Dent hammering
  • Test driving
  • Body part replacement
  • Vehicle testing
  • Frame assessment
  • Upholstery removal
  • Collision repair
  • Attentive to detail
  • Teamwork
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Customer service
  • Problem-solving
  • Time management
  • Attention to detail
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Multitasking
  • Multitasking Abilities
  • Reliability
  • Excellent communication
  • Computer skills
  • Parts replacement
  • Body refinishing
  • Organizational skills
  • Team collaboration
  • Automotive diagnostics
  • Active listening
  • Effective communication
  • Adaptability and flexibility
  • Decision-making
  • Surface grinding
  • Spray painting
  • Metal fabrication
  • Relationship building
  • Safety procedures
  • Vehicle inspections
  • Surface preparation
  • Precision measuring
  • Team building
  • Task prioritization
  • Self motivation
  • Power buffers
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Analytical thinking
  • Goal setting

Accomplishments

Accomplishments

I love fabricating go karts and mini choppers. I invented my own style of tattoo machine which I was seriously considering mass producing before the industry went mainly to rotary machines.

I’m a musician also. I sing and play guitar, bass and I’m currently learning the drums. I was in a few bands but my all time favorite was Gravel Road Rock and Blues Band and Neptune Uranus IntraVenus.

The other band mates called me the glue that kept us all together. I consider team building to be an integral part of any task. The longevity of employees and the drive for excellence is apparent when properly inspired. The mother of my children actually said she noticed a big difference in the attitudes and involvement in my interactions with my children for the better. That’s a great compliment.

Certification

Fork lift, order picking lifts, front loaders and some crane work, tractor and engine repair (small engine).

Timeline

Sales Manager
Vivint Solar
05.2013 - 04.2015
Tattoo Studio Owner/Artist Practitioner
Self Employed Services
04.1998 - Current
Automotive Collision Technician
Pete’s Auto Body
Construction Worker
Melvin’s in Neillsville WI
R&R Technician
American & Foreign Transmissions
Baker’s Assistant
Brick Oven Bakery
Logan High
Graduate Certificate
Stephen WalzCreator Fabricator Artist Musician Thinker Doer