Exploring alternative career paths with Forrest Davis of Griot's Motors

Forrest Davis, the shop foreman of Griot's Motors, joins Darla and Josh Welton to talk about his nontraditional journey into the automotive restoration industry.

He shares how he began working at Griot's Garage as a retail employee and eventually transitioning to work on the owner's car collection in in Tacoma, Wash., which led to the creation of Griot's Motors, a full-service restoration shop that specializes in restoring a wide variety of vehicles.

Davis emphasizes the importance of developing a systematic restoration process, thorough documentation, and comprehensive testing to ensure a high-quality final product for customers. He also discusses the challenges of building a skilled workforce and the apprenticeship program he is establishing to mentor the next generation of automotive restoration technicians.

He also talks about his love of Volkswagen, photography, travel, and expanding his worldview.

Davis hopes his passion for cars, creativity, and commitment to training the next generation of fabricators and metal workers exemplify the innovative spirit of the American manufacturing industry.