Member Spotlight: Chris Williams, CD-SV

International Detailing Association (IDA): How did you get into the detailing industry?
Chris Williams (CW): I began detailing as a hobby and as part of my inspections in 1998 as a Law Enforcement Officer. We had to go through inspections regularly, so I always maintained my vehicle. Later, in 2005, I began working in the fire service, and of course station pride and having all your apparatus shining was as important as training and your equipment readiness. I started working on vehicles on the side back then for extra money. I did this for years while still working at other jobs. In January 2019, I attended my first detailing course at Majestic Solutions in Raleigh, North Carolina. It was great, but I wanted more training and knowledge. So, in May 2019, I attended Detailing Success in Big Bear, California, with Renny and Diane Doyle. Since then, I have gained certifications in Aviation Detailing as well. 

IDA: Please tell us your business’s story.
CW: I started part-time officially as a business in 2019. I left my full-time job in April of 2021, and I have been detailing full-time ever since. We have grown immensely in a short amount of time, and we are constantly improving. 

IDA: In what products or services does your company specialize? 
CW: We focus on all aspects of detailing. However, we do not offer basic washes. Our services start with a wash, clay, and sealant all the way to paint correction and ceramic coatings. Auto is our primary focus, but we also cover many motorcycles and aircraft in the area. 

IDA: What do you think is the most important factor to being successful in the detailing industry?
CW: The most important factor to success in this industry is having the right mentors. Listen more than you speak. Remove your ego from everything, and learn from everyone. 

IDA: Are there any awards/certifications/accomplishments that you or your business has earned and would like to share with us?
CW: I was awarded a “Made” member of The Detail Mafia in November of 2020, I was a Selected Team Member for the Air Force One Detailing Team in July 2021, and I was presented the Essence of the Mafia Award in November 2021. I was voted into the IDA Board in January of 2022, and am also an active board member for The Detail Mafia. 

IDA: What is the best advice you ever received?
CW: Never stop learning. No matter how good you may think you are, there is always room to learn more. 

IDA: What tips do you have for the new detailer? For the experienced detailer?
CW: For a new detailer, get to know others. Find a good and legitimate mentor. Not just in this industry but in business as well. Times will get very hard, but you wake up each day and make that day your day. Every little step you gain will forever help you. For experienced detailers, bring others up. Reach back down and pull up those around you. You have been there and seen the struggle. Let’s not let others struggle as hard as you did. Be the example!  

IDA: Funniest Business Moment?
CW: Being a mobile operator, I usually have a ring I keep clients' keys on while completing a service. While working on another former law enforcement officer's car, we finished and were on our way to the next job. Well, the client calls me and asked if I knew where his key was. Turns out, I forgot to give the key back! Embarrassed, I rushed back. Of course, I got some grief from him and some laughs. 

IDA: Why did you decide to get involved with the IDA?
CW: I want detailing to be seen as any other professional trade. I want to be able to reach back to other detailers and help as much as I can. The IDA and many of its members see this same view and are continuing the push to make “us” better. Let’s set those standards. Let’s push to bring education to our clientele and communities around us. Educating the public helps us justify our profession. We are business owners and huge parts of our communities. 

*The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the IDA.