Member Spotlight: Humberto Macena

International Detailing Association (IDA): How did you get into the detailing industry?
Humberto Macena (HM): I took a two-week detailing course at a technical school. In the same year, I received several certifications.

IDA: Please tell us your business’s story.
HM: My detailing career began in the middle of a pandemic. I left my lawyer's life and started detailing in a garage. I set up the lighting with the help of my brother. Customers are always impressed with the result. Currently, I provide services for a famous Swedish car dealership.

IDA: In what products or services does your company specialize? 
HM: I detail both new and used vehicles. I believe that all vehicle parts can be protected when treated in the proper manner with the appropriate products. I currently work with the best Japanese industry products.

IDA: What do you think is the most important factor to being successful in the detailing industry?
HM: Knowledge! It takes a lot of studying to succeed. Good relationships with other professionals are also important. They will help you grow and learn.

IDA: Are there any awards/certifications/accomplishments that you or your business has earned and would like to share with us?
HM: I am a current instructor at the Academia do Polidor, a technical school specializing in automotive courses. I am also the President of the IDA Brazilian Chapter and certified by the IDA with CD-SV credentials.

IDA: What is the best advice you ever received?
HM: Commit to the Lord everything you do, and your plans will succeed.

IDA: What tips do you have for the new detailer? For the experienced detailer?
HM: I often tell my students, "Never stop studying." Study chemistry, marketing, finance, anything that will help you succeed. To the experienced, I usually listen and would advise others as well. You never know what you may learn and from whom, so take the time to listen.

IDA: Funniest Business Moment?
HM: At a meeting of the Chapter Development Committee, held via Zoom, I had the camera on but facing the wall. When I moved, the people attending saw the mountains and the view. Everyone screamed into the camera, "Humberto's view is so Nice!" hahaha.

IDA: Why did you decide to get involved with the IDA?
HM: I believe in the seriousness of the work that the IDA carries out. Although the challenges we face in Brazil differ from those others face in the world, there are similar issues that we all face as detailers.

*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.