F.E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. -- “We do our best to help Airmen out and instruct them on what to do with their cars,” said Greg Winters, the automotive mechanic at the Auto Skills Center.
The Auto Skills Center is an indoor space where customers can work on their vehicles and have access to different tools and resources not readily available.
A resource that may come in handy at the shop is Winters himself. He has worked in the auto shop since 1998 with the exception of 2011 when it closed. Winters enjoys helping his customers with problems they do not understand and watching them learn.
“I like to see the young people get into fixing their own cars,” said Winters. “I think it builds confidence. Sometimes they are a little reluctant, but once they get to turn the wrench and work, they get a little more confident.”
Customers most commonly use the shop to change oil and replace breaks. However, the shop has tools for just about any type of work, according to Winters. Along with hand held tools, the shop has lifts, flat stones, a tire machine, tire balancer and a strut compressor. Each of these machines are available to rent for a few dollars an hour.
The auto shop is open for service Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Airmen should take advantage of the great opportunity to save money and learn new skills, according to Winters.
“I think having it here for the people is the best part of the shop,” said Winters. “It’s a good place for people to come in and learn how to work on their cars, and if they already know how, it’s a good place out of the weather to work.”