Every so often, our editorial staff selects one aftermarket industry professional to get to know a little better. Participants are asked to respond to a series of questions that can be answered in about the same amount of time you might spend chatting at the office coffee pot or waiting for an elevator. In this installment of “Five Minutes With,” we get to know Patrick Shaughnessy, product manager at MotoRad.
What was your first job in the industry?
My first automotive job was working for a professional Porsche Race Team called “Farnbacher Loles” back in my high school/college years. After college, my first career/corporate automotive job was with a custom wheel manufacturing company called VIP Modular Wheels.
What do you like best about your current position?
Being a product manager here at MotoRad allows for me to really “own” as well as be in charge of the Thermal Management division here. I enjoy the freedom and trust my coworkers put in me with my position. They trust the comments, suggestions and ideas that I come up with to better our product on a daily basis.
Did you initially intend to pursue a career in the aftermarket? If not, what drew you to the industry and what keeps you here?
I knew I always wanted to be working in the automotive industry ever since I was a kid. Working on cars in the garage with my Dad and attending shows was something I always enjoyed. Having car posters fill my childhood room and model cars all over the house really set my mind straight from the beginning I would say. Cars surrounded my life when I was little and only grew stronger and bigger as the years went on. I was meant to be in the automotive world and don’t ever plan on leaving it either!
What do you do when not at work?
When I am not working, I am usually working on whatever vehicle I currently own at the time or my motorcycle. If both of those are good and running, then I usually have my hand in a buddy’s engine bay assisting with their project cars. Non-automotive related items would include snowboarding, surfing and traveling.
What one word best sums up your personality?
I think everyone can agree that I am an extremely outgoing type of person. In one word… Passionate!
What kind of car do you drive?
I currently drive a 2017 Chevy Silverado with a 5.3L V8 and a 2014 Harley Davidson 1200 Sportster.
What was your first car?
My first car was passed down from my father as a gift, which was a 2002 Ford Explorer with a 4.6L V8
Favorite quote/mantra/motto?
“Win or Die, you will be immortal.” – Enzo Ferrari and “If you ain’t first, you’re last!” – Ricky Bobby.
