Turning passion into purpose with Nason Higinbotham
From his early fascination with cars to his current role as vice president of stores for British Columbia, Manitoba, and Ontario at Fountain Tire, Nason Higinbotham’s career is a testament to the power of aligning passion with purpose. Since joining the Young Professionals in the Auto care sector (YPA) Community in 2022, he has become a strong advocate for mentorship and career growth within the industry. Nason’s journey reflects how curiosity, perseverance, and the right guidance can turn an interest in automotive into a meaningful, lifelong career.
What inspired you to work in the auto care sector?
From a young age, I was drawn to automobiles, but I never considered the industry as a career path when I entered the workforce. I was at a crossroads; I had business experience but felt unsure about where to apply it. That is when I recalled some valuable coaching from my late grandfather, who had encouraged me to align my career with something I was truly passionate about. For me, that was automotive. When I had the opportunity to combine my love for vehicles with the problem-solving challenges of working with customers and navigating the complexities of the business, I was all in.
That was how it started, but as I dug deeper into the industry and career growth opportunities presented themselves, I became even more energized by the operational and strategic challenges this sector presents—and the chance to make a real impact. That initial spark has grown into a lasting passion, and I have not looked back since.
You are involved in the Young Professionals in the Auto care sector community— what does it mean to you?
The YPA Community is one of the few groups truly dedicated to encouraging young adults to explore the auto care industry as a viable and rewarding career path. In my late teens, career counselling rarely highlighted the trades or related industries, and I never considered this sector because I knew I did not want to be an automotive technician, but I was not aware of the many other opportunities that existed.
Through my involvement with the YPA Community, I have seen firsthand that the next generation is more open to the automotive sector. But like all young adults, they want to understand what’s truly possible and how to get there. That is why I am passionate about connecting with others and, hopefully, inspiring them to expand their career in the auto care sector with purpose. The YPA Community excels at connecting young leaders in the industry, which is crucial for the long-term growth and sustainability of the sector.
What advice do you have for someone starting out in the industry?
I only know what has worked for me, which includes:
- Find a company that is committed to helping you grow, one that genuinely cares about you and your career aspirations.
- Surround yourself with people who are better than you—ask questions, be a sponge, respect those with experience and take on responsibility when it is offered.
- Do not be afraid to try something new, but also do not hesitate to ask for help when you need it. When you are with the right people, they will want to help you grow.
- Set realistic personal and career goals, and be laser-focused on achieving them. You will not go from service advisor to general manager in three years—it takes time. Most give up too soon, but it is important to stay the course.
- I genuinely believe the auto care sector is built on hard work and determination. If you put in the time and do the hard work, with the right people, I promise you it will give back to you exponentially—it has for me.
About Fountain Tire
Fountain Tire is a Canadian-owned tire and automotive service company founded in 1956 in Wainwright, Alberta. With over 160 locations across the country, it combines national resources with local ownership to deliver reliable tire and vehicle maintenance services built on trust and expertise.
About the Young Professionals in the Auto care sector Community
Young Professionals in the Auto care sector (YPA) Community is an Automotive Industries Association of Canada (AIA Canada) community comprising of young executives, of 45 years or younger, in the Canadian auto care sector. They support the career growth of young professionals by expanding their network and assisting them in becoming a thought leader in Canada’s auto care industry.