Riley Sturm
Why did you became a mechanic?
The main reason I became a mechanic is because I ran out of projects to do on my own car! And I’m only half joking here. I’ve always loved working on vehicles. When I was younger, I would build and repair bikes and motorbikes for fun. When I realized I could make a career out of having fun, it seemed like a no-brainer to get certified as a mechanic. According to my mom, I’ve loved cars since before I could walk. I guess becoming a mechanic was the most natural thing I could do. Why not have a job you love?
What do you like most about working at Scott’s EQ?
Scott’s has great customers! Our customers bring in their vehicles for some really fun modifications, interesting problems, and projects. Scott’s EQ is a very professional shop, and I take pride in working at a place that always treats the customer right. We do almost anything you could imagine needing to be done on a car, and we stand behind our work, and I believe that’s very important. It’s great driving around Missoula and seeing a customer’s vehicle that we have fixed and kept on the road. Plus you couldn’t ask for a better group of guys to work with. We have a great time, but we also work hard, and at the end of the day, that makes for a very satisfying work environment. And sometimes people bring us in snacks too… I work here mostly for the snacks.
What certifications do you have?
Graduated with an Automotive Technology degree from Lincoln College of Technology. Graduated top of my class with a 4.0 GPA.
Why do you like living in Missoula?
The outdoors, mountains, snowmobiling, hiking, biking, its all right here, so Missoula suits me perfectly. I’ve lived in some pretty big cities, and I really prefer a town the size of Missoula. It’s big enough that there’s lots to do, but small enough that it only takes a few minutes and you’re out of town and in the mountains. Its a great community with a very friendly feel, just an enjoyable place to be!
Tell us more about yourself?
I grew up going back and forth between Seeley Lake, MT and southeast Asia. I’ve experienced different cultures and places, and for me, that just solidified early on the kind of lifestyle I want and the kind of place I want to live. I guess my childhood would be considered exotic by many people, but whenever I was away, as fun and interesting as it was, I couldn’t wait to get back home. I always considered Montana home, even when I spent years away.