[My TOPDON Story] Wrenches, Fast Lanes and Mentors: Making True Friends Along the Journey

Brand news February 12, 2025

This story was shared by Donald Lee Tyrone, a Level A Technician from the U.S., known as 'Duck' in the TOPDON Community.


Do you have mentors who have shaped your life or career? Who has guided you to where you are today? For Donald Lee Tyrone, a level A technician, it’s the people he met throughout different phases of his life, helped him grow into the skilled and accomplished professional he is today. Join us as we trace Donald’s path and uncover the inspirations that have fueled his growth as a technician.


From childhood tinkering with electronics to mastering automotive diagnostics, my journey as a technician has been fueled by curiosity and shaped by extraordinary mentors. The thrill of figuring out how to make a VCR, an N64, or a home stereo system work seamlessly was something I couldn't get enough of. I would take pride in hiding all the wires for a clean, organized setup, and I was always experimenting with units that weren’t meant to work together. This hands-on problem-solving fueled my passion for both electronics and cars.


From the Car Door to the Fast Lane

My first real automotive experience came when I was 10. The moment I saw the my uncle removing the door panel from my mom’s car and the inner workings of the car door—wires, moving parts—I was hooked. Just like many other kids, I couldn’t believe that you could take something apart like that and understand how it worked. It completely flipped a switch in my brain. From that moment, I started watching PowerBlock on Saturday mornings instead of cartoons, diving deeper into car culture. Then, The Fast and the Furious, the infamous movie, was released, and it opened up an entirely new world for me—modifying cars, tuning them to your taste, and pushing the limits of what was possible. I was especially captivated by the iconic Toyota Supra taking down a Ferrari, a scene that solidified my love for the craft of building and modifying vehicles.


How I Got Into the Automotive Repair

At 16, I got my first car: a gold 2001 Dodge Neon, which would become my gateway to automotive repair. I picked up a Haynes repair manual and started pouring over the diagrams and repair procedures. Though I didn’t fully understand what I was looking at, I was determined. I began doing my own maintenance, learning how to use hand tools, and developing the skills to fix my own car. At the time, I never imagined that automotive repair would be my career, but life had other plans.


From Salvage Yard to Technician

At 19, I found myself unexpectedly out of work after leaving my restaurant job. That’s when fate stepped in. My girlfriend’s grandparents were friends with the owner of a local salvage yard, and they were looking for help. I took the job, doing everything from cleaning up the yard to breaking down tires from dismantled vehicles. Over time, I was promoted to a parts puller, removing everything from brake boosters to quarter panels for body shops.


Behind the Wrenches: People in My Life

Along the way, I’ve been fortunate to learn from several influential figures. At the yard, I met James Henly, an ASE Master Tech who changed my life forever. Watching him diagnose a Chevy Impala’s crankshaft sensor with a PicoScope opened my eyes to a new world of diagnostics. This was a whole new world of diagnostics, and I realized I wanted to be that person who could solve tough problems like he did. Years later, I returned to show James my ASE Master certification—his proud smile and kind words made it all worthwhile. It is also one of the proudest moments of my life.


John Baker, my first lead technician at Pep Boys, taught me invaluable lessons about the importance of taking my time and doing things right. Paul Danner (Scanner Danner) was another major influence. I was an early subscriber to his YouTube channel, back when all his training content was free. His teachings on scope training, precision in diagnosis, and knowing your worth as a technician have shaped the way I approach my work. Mike Ross, who worked next to me during my time at Toyota, helped me learn the ropes of dealership life and taught me that if I wanted to get better, I was the one who had to put in the work. Funny enough, Mike was a student of Paul Danner as well, showing just how interconnected this community of automotive technicians is. I continue to learn from others, from Ivan at Pine Hollow Auto Diagnostics to Mario from Super Mario Diagnostics, and countless others who inspire me daily.


TOPDON Supported Me in Finding a Path Forward

A little over a year ago, I had the ambition to open my own repair shop and was looking for a sponsorship. I reached out to TOPDON, and though they didn’t have a sponsorship program, Luciana suggested I look into their TestLight Program. I applied and began beta-testing TOPDON products, starting with the CarPal. 


Since then, TOPDON has provided me with tools, support, and a community that has significantly impacted my career. Their products, like the TS diagnostic tools and the CarPal, have enhanced my ability to diagnose and repair vehicles with confidence. Through the community forum, I’ve been able to help others, and the TOPDON Master’s program has been an incredible reward for my dedication and hard work.


TOPDON has given me more than just tools—it’s given me purpose. With their support, I’ve gained the opportunity to help others, earn a living, and continue my personal and professional growth. I am grateful for their role in my journey.


To anyone starting out, my advice is simple: you will make mistakes—learn from them and strive not to repeat them. Invest in your knowledge first, and don’t worry about the fancy toolbox until you’re ready. Listen to those around you, observe, and apply what works for you. Don’t settle for a shop that doesn’t align with your values, and never cut corners. Always be confident, continue learning, and never stop honing your craft.


Thank you, TOPDON, for giving me the tools, the knowledge, and the community to keep growing in this incredible field.


Click here to view the My TOPDON Story project details and explore more user stories.

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