Porter’s Automotive, Inc.
John Porter began Porter’s Automotive as a classic “service station” in 1976, running a Sunoco franchise. Over the years he operated in various locations and as numerous brands, including BP, Shell and Boron. Porter’s moved to the current location on Williamson Road in 1989. In 1991 Porter’s converted from a gas service station to a full automotive service center, eliminating gasoline from the business. Throughout the years, while the brand, location, and services have changed, the service, integrity and pride in performance has remained consistent. Porter’s has also put an emphasis on education and the almost continuous upgrading of equipment to stay current with the changes in technology and industry regulations. John has also focused on retaining the best talent possible as it is his people who make the business. Porter’s has enjoyed and appreciated long term customer loyalty as a service provider they can trust.
In 1995 John opened Select Auto Sales, Inc. directly across the street from Porter’s Automotive, selling high quality used cars, with 30-40 cars in inventory. In 2001, he combined all operations into Porter’s Automotive, Inc. While the car inventory is smaller today, Porter’s maintains the same high standards in their automotive sales as in their service. Porter’s has always specialized in computer and performance issues as well as all general repair and maintenance. In 2007 with the addition of an automatic transmission specialist, service was expanded to include computerized transmission diagnostics, repair, rebuilding and overhaul. Porter’s enjoys one of the most highly skilled and sophisticated teams of technicians in the valley and the best team in their history, providing the highest quality of service in the valley. Porter’s is a partner with the Better Business Bureau and has zero complaints registered over their entire history. In addition to superior service, Porter’s Service Center is affiliated with the AC Delco TSS (total service and support) program to maintain high standards of training and high quality of parts.
 

Porter’s Automotive has the most highly skilled, technically sophisticated team of technicians in the Roanoke Valley, who takes pride in providing the highest quality service and components at competitive rates.

John Porter, Owner and President, ASE Master Certified Technician
john@portersautomotive.net
John has been an ASE Certified Technician since the inception of his business in 1976 and achieved the then relatively uncommon ASE Master Certification in 1994. In 1995 John obtained a Car Dealer’s license and joined the VIADA (Virginia Independent Automobile Dealers Association). With the VIADA John has served on the Board and/or held an officer position for the last 10 years. John served as the local chapter president for 2 years and is currently the First Vice President at the state level. John works with the VIADA’s political lobbyists to monitor and influence the VA General Assembly’s Transportation Committee for laws that affect the consumers and dealers in Virginia. John also chairs the Publication and Events committee overseeing conventions and their statewide magazine. John enjoys teaching, both in the public school system and with apprentice technicians in his shop. When not at work, John enjoys time on the tractor caring for his small horse farm, watching the birds gather around the feeders, and spoiling his 3 Dachshunds.

John is proud of his team, the best of his career, and would like to share a little bit about them with you:

Al Brewer, aka “Big Al”, Shop/Service Manager
al@portersautomotive.net
Al owned and operated South Holly Auto Service for 14 years in Denver, CO. He sold his business in 2003 to move to Virginia where he joined Robert Bosch Corporation. Working for Bosch his experience and knowledge were valued and enabled his success selling technical automotive equipment to repair shops and independent dealerships. His skill and knowledge of high-tech computerized automobiles made him a great asset as the instructor for the local Master Tech Club as well as to the apprentices at Porter’s Automotive. Al stays busy outside of work with his wife and 2 daughters. He particularly enjoys showing off his vintage 1962 Chevrolet Corvette in parades and shows.

Ryan Gentry, Transmission Specialist
ryan@portersautomotive.net
Ryan began his career in 1994 after graduating from a voc-tech program. His quest for knowledge through independent learning and formal education coupled with his strong work ethic enabled Ryan to become one of the best transmission technicians in the country. Ryan has achieved certification as an ASE Certified Master Technician and Transmission Specialist and after just a year at Porter’s he holds the title of Lead Technician and is responsible for all transmission and drive train services. Ryan is married and a drag racing enthusiast with his own I.H.R.A. approved car.


Foye Farris, Service Technician
Mr. Farris owned and operated his own service business for 15 years. He joined Porter’s Automotive in 1990. Mr. Farris specializes in routine service and maintenance, performing his duties with the same care and pride as he did running his own business. He is United States Air Force retired, having served in Vietnam.

Jacob Porter, Environmental Resource Officer
jacob@portersautomotive.net
At 24 Jacob joined his father at Porter’s Automotive as a second career, having spent the previous 8 years working as an exceptional cook in some of the best restaurants in Roanoke. His addition enabled Porter’s to expand their business while improving their image as environmentally responsible. Jacob is responsible for the proper recycling of all material wastes, including batteries, tires, oils and metals, as well as the building maintenance and upgrades. Since joining Jacob has created a new transmission shop and recycling facilities, increased recycling by more than 50%, and turned recycling into a revenue stream rather than an expense. Jacob’s multiple talents, strong work ethics and ability to learn quickly, have made him a valuable asset. Married with one son, Jacob enjoys spending time with his family, playing music (multiple instruments), biking, and cooking.

Darlene Porter, Office Manager
darlene@portersautomotive.net
Darlene worked for American Motor Inns/Krisch Hotels for over 30 years before entering into the automotive business in 1995. She is responsible for regulatory compliance, accounting, payroll and all day-to-day business operations. Without Darlene the wheels would come off of this bus and the doors would close. As someone who is very neat and organized, her biggest challenge is sharing an office with John! Married to John’s cousin and close friend, Ted, Darlene enjoys being with friends and family.