Our History

Brian’s Story

Owner/Mechanic, Brian Gortney

Brian’s Automotive was founded on July 28th,1975 by Brian Gortney, a life resident of Canton, Ohio. Prior to opening the business, Brian had worked as a mechanic at local Ford,  Mazda, and Volvo dealers and was a Volvo Certified mechanic.

Earlier, Brian had worked with both his father and grandfather, who were both mechanics since he was a very young boy. Brian’s grandfather ran a Sinclair gas station and garage in Dover, Ohio and later built his own 5 car shop with an attached office and machine room. Brian’s father, George Gortney, went on to become involved in the auto parts industry as a manufacturers representative and training specialist  for major Automotive Corporations, and later became an independent representative for many National Brands of automotive parts.

Brian has been an ASE certified “Master Mechanic,” certified in ALL 8 areas of repair for many years.

Certified in the Following:

  1. Engine Repair
  2. Transmission and Transaxles
  3. Drive train and Axles
  4. Suspension and Steering
  5. Brakes
  6. Electrical Systems
  7. Heating and Air Conditioning
  8. Engine Performance.

Brian is also Certified for A/C repair by MACS (Mobile A/C Society ). The Shop has been a long time member of the ASA (Automotive Service Association) and the IATN (International Auto Technicians Network) and Brian is a Certified All Data Automotive Information Specialist.

The shop is extensively equipped with the latest “State of the Art” diagnostic and repair tools, scanners and computer systems and Brian’s vast experience and expertise are often called upon by other local mechanics…how about that for a vote of confidence!