(Unfortunately, if you’re reading this now, we stopped offering our Courtesy Shuttle Service in July 2021. Please call our Service Advisors at 503-230-2300 for details.)
This month we have some news that will be particularly interesting (and a little sad) for our Courtesy Shuttle riders. Jeff Andersen, our longtime shuttle driver, shop expeditor, and face-of-Tom-Dwyer-to-our-clients, is moving on to greener pastures. No, he’s not “leaving to spend more time with his family”, but to get his teaching degree and begin shaping the minds of the next generation.
Jeff is a Portland native, going to Rose City Park Elementary and to Madison High before heading to the Minneapolis College of Art and Design for his BFA. “I wanted to come back to Oregon after college”, said Jeff, “so when I got a local job offer I jumped at it”. He was soon a graphic designer for an interpretive design firm in Sheridan. “It was a very specialized company, and working in a very interesting field. We did high-end information and way-finding for museums and parks around the country. You can still find a sample of my graphic work on display at Heceta Head, Oregon.”
In 2008 Jeff relocated to Portland looking for something new, and found it at Tom Dwyer Automotive. “It’s been great to be a part of Tom’s business. It doesn’t feel like I’ve been here 4 years already” he said. “The auto industry was something totally different for me. My only auto experience had been with my own car, a 1989 Toyota Corolla, which I’d kept on the road myself since 1995.” Fortunately, although Tom requires full ASE-certification for our Techs he doesn’t require the same level of automotive knowledge for our shuttle drivers. “My knowledge was useful because it helped me talk with the clients about their cars in a general way, but I would always guide them toward our Service Advisor team for more detailed answers.”
“Visiting with the clients was the best part of the job. Teachers, students, scientists, doctors, politicians, radio personalities… I never knew who would ride in the van, but I could always count on a great conversation. No matter who it was, they all had the common thread of vehicle maintenance or repair to start with.” Many had stories about their cars, whether it was a hand-me-down, or a family vacation they’d used it in. “We’d start off talking about how long the car has lasted but the conversation would always turn into something really interesting.” He does have his favorites, though. “I really enjoyed driving our older clients. They’re like walking encyclopedias of knowledge and life experience. Seniors have unique and insightful opinions on current social issues.”
Jeff comments about some challenges of the job too. The steepest learning curve was learning the obscure areas of the city, which also brought its own rewards. “Portland is full of niche neighborhoods- Multnomah Village, Clinton Street, Rose City Park, St. John’s, and so many more. Each neighborhood has a unique personality and distinct community.” He said he didn’t remember a ‘best’ day on the job, but he did remember a worst day- three winters ago, when there was about ten inch snow fall. “It snowed all night and the temperature dropped below freezing by morning, creating icy and treacherous roads. We still had a full ride schedule, though. It was nightmare traffic all over the city. That day really stood out, but I wasn’t late for a single ride.” These inevitable bad weather days or unforeseen schedule conflicts can create occasional glitches with the Shuttle, but Jeff said they don’t create too much of a problem with the riders. “We have wonderful clients who are very supportive. They know sometimes things happen beyond our control, and they are very understanding and patient when it happens. It’s a very rare to have to an upset shuttle rider.”
Asked what behind-the-scenes glimpses he would share with our readers, there were a couple things Jeff mentioned. “I wasn’t aware of Tom’s outspoken politics when I started, but it was pretty easy to accommodate. His political views align with my own, so after four years there hasn’t been any conflict. I respect Tom for making a stand for the progressive cause. He takes a big risk of alienating potential clients, but does it anyway.” Our Book and Bumper Sticker Library was the other thing on his mind. “It’s a unique feature of the shop, and although many clients like it, not all of them know it even exists.”
So what’s taking Jeff away from the Dwyer family? “I’m leaving to earn my Masters of Teaching at Concordia University. I’ve been researching schools for over a year, and Concordia University in Portland has a strong reputation for creating quality teachers”. What subjects does he want to teach? “With my background, I’m most interested in teaching art. I’d like to teach high school. Middle school children have a lot of curiosity about the world, but they’re still on the edge of childhood. High school students are generally excited about learning, and eager to transition into adulthood. The interactions become more sophisticated and the teaching a little more challenging.” When he graduates, even this Portland native may consider a change. “Staying in Oregon would be fine, but this time I’m open to moving out of the area as well. Maybe somewhere warm!”
Jeff thinks his experience at Tom Dwyer will be helpful as he moves on to this next adventure. “Sometimes it’s easier to not make an effort with people I don’t know, but this job has forced me to break out of my shell. I enjoy meeting new people now; I’ve developed the confidence to start a conversation with just about anyone.” When asked if there was any parting words to our clients, Jeff said “I’d like to thank everyone for this experience. It’s been a great job; I’ve met hundreds of incredible people, and had the chance to see the city in a whole new way. Thanks to everyone for all the good wishes and support I’ve received on my decision to make this change.”
So long, Jeff… we’ll miss you, and we wish you all the best!
