Tad Tjernagel
Pontiac
Summary
- BMW Level 3 Certified Motorcycle Technician with over a decade of experience servicing and repairing high-performance motorcycles across multiple manufacturers, including premium European, American, and Japanese brands. Factory-trained in BMW Motorrad systems with advanced proficiency in electrical diagnostics using ISTA, OEM-level repairs, and warranty administration.
- Proven background in both technical service and customer-facing roles, including service writing and client relationship management.
- As a Track Day Instructor, I leverage on-track expertise to attract and engage performance-oriented riders, fostering trust and credibility that directly translates into new service customers. My ability to demonstrate technical skill in real-world riding environments builds strong brand loyalty and opens opportunities for customer acquisition beyond the traditional dealership setting.
- In addition to technical proficiency, I bring extensive experience in warranty administration and service writing, managing repair processes from initial customer intake to final delivery. Skilled in preparing accurate cost estimates, submitting and tracking warranty claims, and maintaining clear, timely communication with customers to ensure satisfaction and repeat business.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Motorcycle Technician / Warranty Administrator / Service Writer
BMW Motorcycles of Detroit
Rochester Hills
06.2023 - Current
- Lead diagnostics and repairs for complex electrical and mechanical issues using BMW ISTA software and Level 3 factory training.
- Manage warranty administration, including claim preparation, submission, and follow-up to ensure timely manufacturer approval and payment.
- Serve as service writer when needed - creating accurate estimates, scheduling repairs, and maintaining clear, ongoing communication with customers.
- Oversee precision repairs on drivetrains, braking systems, and electrical components with strict adherence to BMW specifications.
- Coordinate with parts, service, and management teams to streamline workflow and improve shop efficiency.
Motorcycle Technician
CalMoto
Mountain View
07.2016 - 07.2023
- Performed advanced diagnostics and repairs on BMW, KTM, Energica, Vespa, and other high-performance motorcycles, adapting to multiple manufacturer systems and service procedures.
- Specialized in pinpointing complex faults through systematic diagnostic processes, ensuring accurate and efficient repairs.
- Installed performance upgrades, custom accessories, and rider-requested modifications to meet specific handling and performance goals.
- Collaborated directly with customers and service writers to ensure work orders reflected exact needs, resulting in high satisfaction and repeat business.
- Supported shop efficiency by mentoring junior technicians and sharing best practices for adhering to manufacturer guidelines.
Instructor / Control Rider
FunTrackDayz
Sacramento
02.2019 - 06.2023
- Coached riders at varying skill levels, emphasizing body positioning, corner entry, and safety awareness.
- Performed pre-track safety inspections to ensure compliance with event standards.
- Controlled track flow and responded to incidents with calm, decisive action.
- Leveraged trackside relationships to generate new service clients and dealership referrals.
Motorcycle Racer
American Federation of Motorcyclists
Bay Area
03.2022 - 03.2023
- Completed novice season and earned expert-level certification in one year.
- Optimized race-day setup through on-the-fly adjustments and mechanical fine-tuning.
- Applied competition experience to improve diagnostic accuracy and performance recommendations in the shop.
Engine Builder / NDT Technician
Victor Aviation
Palo Alto
09.2013 - 03.2017
- Built, assembled, and overhauled Lycoming and Continental aircraft engines to factory-new tolerances and FAA-approved specifications.
- Performed advanced non-destructive testing, including dye penetrant, magnaflux, eddy current, and submersible C-scan inspections.
- Operated precision machining equipment including lathe, glass bead blasting cabinets, and honing tools for component repair and restoration.
- Documented inspection results and communicated findings to engineering teams for repair planning and compliance verification.
- Maintained rigorous adherence to aviation industry safety, quality control, and regulatory standards.
Service Writer / Warranty Administrator
The Motor Café
Sunnyvale
04.2012 - 09.2013
- Managed daily service operations for Ducati, KTM, Honda, and Kawasaki motorcycles, coordinating schedules for multiple technicians to maximize shop efficiency.
- Wrote service estimates, explained repair details to customers, and maintained clear communication throughout the service process.
- Processed and administered manufacturer warranty claims, ensuring accurate documentation and timely reimbursement.
- Oversaw parts ordering and availability to align with scheduled repairs, minimizing downtime.
- Organized shop layout to optimize workflow and improve safety, productivity, and customer turnaround times.
Education
Associate Degree - Motorcycle Technology
Motorcycle Mechanics Institute
Phoenix, AZ01.2012
Skills
- Mechanical repair and advanced troubleshooting
- Problem solving and multitasking
- Customer service and communication skills
- Attention to detail
Certification
- BMW Motorrad Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 Technician Certifications
- Advanced Diagnostics with BMW ISTA
- Non-Destructive Testing (dye penetrant, magnaflux, eddy current, submersible C-scan)
- AFM (American Federation of Motorcyclists) Expert Racing Certification
- ASRA (American Sportbike Racing Association) Racing Certification
- FunTrackDayz Rider Training & Instructor Certification
Timeline
Motorcycle Technician / Warranty Administrator / Service Writer
BMW Motorcycles of Detroit
06.2023 - Current
Motorcycle Racer
American Federation of Motorcyclists
03.2022 - 03.2023
Instructor / Control Rider
FunTrackDayz
02.2019 - 06.2023
Motorcycle Technician
CalMoto
07.2016 - 07.2023
Engine Builder / NDT Technician
Victor Aviation
09.2013 - 03.2017
Service Writer / Warranty Administrator
The Motor Café
04.2012 - 09.2013
Associate Degree - Motorcycle Technology
Motorcycle Mechanics Institute
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