John Lopez was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. Always a forward-thinker, John geared his college education toward real-world experience, ultimately earning his State Academic Credited Achievements from Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) as a State-Certified Master Machinist.
A third-generation engineer, John also gained a lot of knowledge from working together with his father on foreign and domestic automobile engines. After considerable deliberation, the two men determined that focusing specifically on Subaru engines made the most sense. Since then, John Lopez has been widely-regarded as one of the top Subaru engineers in California.
John Lopez currently serves as the Director of Operations for GHC Long Block Racing, a Subaru-affiliated machine shop based out of Pomona, California that specializes in selling customized, rebuilt engines to Subaru owners, as well as other mechanics and machine shops. Known for its outstanding craftsmanship, dependability, and excellent customer service, GCH Long Block Racing prides itself on conducting all of its work in-house and under the supervision of a State-Certified Master Machinist.
What do you currently do at your company?
As Director of Operations for GCH Long Block Racing, I’ve not only brought credibility, education and experience to the table, I have also brought our production up by as much as 35%. Using the business skills that I’ve picked up along the way has also brought the company increased revenue, higher quality workmanship, faster turnaround time, and better customer service, as well. I also personally oversee every single engine, so every customer gets the benefit of my specialist training.
What was the inspiration behind your business?
Knowing I have built thousands of engines for thousands of vehicles inspires me to continue forward, both as a Master Machinist and as the company’s Director of Operations. Also, as a family-owned business, I sometimes bring my kids into work with me and train them. I’m amazed how well they pick everything up. They inspire me to keep this enterprise going!
Tell us one long-term goal in your career.
Right now, I’m seeking investors for the continuing growth of the company. Further down the road, I envision putting GCH Long Block Racing on the public market to be traded on the New York Stock Exchange. Stay tuned for the IPO Press Release.
What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned through the course of your career?
We all make mistakes in life, but it’s how we deal with them is what counts; how we learn from them.
What are some of your favorite things to do outside of work?
I love to spend time with family, trade on the New York Stock Exchange, and fly airplanes.
How would your colleagues describe you?
Everyone that knows me knows I try to stay humble. But they also know that I generate ideas non-stop.
How do you maintain a solid work life balance?
Balance is extremely important. It’s the only way to remain in top physical and mental condition and therefore get things done to the best of my abilities. We all only have 24 hours in a day, and it depends on each of us as individuals to use them as we see fit. However, they can’t all be spent at work. Family time, rest, and self-care are also very important.
What is one piece of technology that helps you the most in your daily routine?
My smartphone is a handy device that helps me a great deal with running the company.
What are some of the keys to your success?
I can’t take all the credit. After all, none of our success would have been achieved without the efforts and talents of my amazing team! I owe them everything!
Who has been a role model to you and why?
My dad, who has been my biggest inspiration, is the best role model I could ever ask for. He once told me “Son, there’s always somebody better than you.” I think what he meant by that is that, even when you do your personal best, you will not always be the objective best at any given endeavor. It’s best to simply accept that instead of killing yourself trying to attain perfection.
What is one piece of advice that you have never forgotten?
Stay humble, and live your life by the Golden Rule: “Treat others the way you want to be treated.” That has always served me best!
How do you measure success?
True success is not measured by money, nor by the quantity of the engines I have built, but rather by the reputation of the business and the ongoing service we provide.
What advice would you give to aspiring to succeed in your field?
If anybody wishes to become a great automobile engineer, I would recommend that they learn from veterans in the field who have thrived under ALL conditions, and that have managed to achieve what others thought to be unachievable. By doing so, any prospective engineer will gain invaluable insight and advice as they embark on their career.
Read more:
Getting to Know you: John Lopez, Director of Operations for GCH Long Block Racing
