Technician Darrell Ard replaces a windshield at a glass in Sumter, S.C. Photo courtesy a glass.
Stan Turner began his life-long career in the auto glass industry at the ripe old age of 12, handing tools to installers at a friend’s dad’s shop in Greenville, S.C.
His brother Danny, who is 11 years older, worked at Shirley Glass in Greenville, S.C. Turner, now 65, credits Joe Shirley with introducing the brothers to the auto glass industry. “I went to the glass shop and played before school started,” he says. “Joe Shirley taught me and my brother to install glass.”
In 1976, Stan went to work for Atlanta-based Uni-Worth Glass Co., which was active in 11 states and pioneered the mobile glass concept. “I was instrumental in bringing mobile glass to South Carolina,” he says.
In 1976, brother Danny founded Turner Glass, while Stan started Superior Glass in 1979. In 1985, he sold the Greenville, S.C., auto glass shop and joined his brother in Myrtle Beach, S.C. at Turner Auto Glass.
He worked at Turner Glass for 31 years until his brother decided to sell the company. Stan started “a glass” in 2018. The company boasts South Carolina locations in Florence and Sumter.
About 90% of the business comes through mobile glass installation.
Stan, an Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC) master technician, emphasizes the importance of technician training and certification. His company recently renewed its membership in AGSC because of the group’s up-to-date rigorous certification program.
“The certification is probably the biggest thing,” Stan says. “It doesn’t matter how many years you’ve been installing. The automotive industry changes all the time.”
He says the AGSC raises a company’s awareness of safety issues, and “everything revolves around safety.”
“You can make one careless mistake with your urethane system and cost somebody their life,” Stan says. “You have a huge responsibility. Every glass you put in is a safety feature, and it’s got to be done right.”
The way the article delves into the intricacies of a lifetime spent in auto glass is truly commendable. It provides a rare and valuable insight into the challenges and triumphs that technicians face daily. The emphasis on technician training is particularly enlightening. It’s a reminder of the dedication and skill required in this field, and how ongoing education plays a crucial role in maintaining high standards. Thank you so much for sharing this article!