In We need some PTO!, Brian Hagopian delivers a wake-up call for the weary soul. This isn't about taking a vacation from work; it's about a Personal Theological Overhaul—a deep dive into your beliefs to see where they clash with the actual Word of God. With humor and raw honesty, Hagopian admits that even those behind the pulpit fall short, himself included.
Through personal stories of failure and redemption, you will discover that your mistakes aren't just accidents; they are the stage for God's greatest lessons. Learn how to identify spiritual burnout, reclaim a life of prayer in the modern chaos, and align your daily actions with biblical truth rather than empty tradition.
God's grace and mercy are not reserved for the 'big' sins—they are for the everyday moments where we forget to lean on Him. It is time to stop drifting and start growing. Whether you are a lifelong believer or someone searching for the path back home, this book offers the tools to live a life of joy, gratitude, and constant connection to the Father. Your rescue story starts today.
I write in two distinct fields: comprehensive Automotive Technology textbooks and faith-centered books drawn from my ministry messages, revivals, and Bible studies.
Automotive & Educational Background
With over 35 years of hands-on automotive shop experience and a passion for teaching, I strive to mold and inspire the next generation of technicians. My journey began at Fresno City College, where an intro automotive class sparked a lifelong passion. After building a successful career—making top technician status at a General Motors dealership—I transitioned into education as an instructor at Las Positas College.
Professional Credentials & Certifications
Education:
B.A. in Organizational Management (Ashford University)
A.S. in Automotive Technology (Fresno City College)
Master & Advanced ASE Certifications:
Master Technician (A1–A9), Advanced Engine Performance (L1), Electronic Diesel (L2), Alternative Fuels & Hybrid (L3), General Service (G1), Compressed Natural Gas (F1), Heavy Duty Truck (T1, T2, T3, T6), Truck Equipment (E1), Mechanical/Electrical Body (B5), Exhaust Specialist (X1), Parts Specialist (P1), and Service Consultant (C1).
Industry Honors:
General Motors World Class Technician (#2 in California, #7 Worldwide), Isuzu Master Elite Technician, NACAT, B'laster, and Tomorrow’s Tech* Instructor of the Month (March 2026).
Specialized Training & Certifications:
California Smog Inspector, Repair Technician, & Instructor, HDIM Referee, Certified Hybrid, Alternative Fuel, & EV Trainer, Tesla Emergency Response, Mike Rowe Works Ethics Certification, HVAC 609, I-Car & ACDelco Certified Instructor, NC3 Certified (Zeus, Oscilloscopes, Verus Edge, Shop Key, Precision Measurement, Torque, TPMS, Procut, B2000P, T7800, Pro X, Multimeters).
Industry Memberships:
ASE, CAT, NACAT, SAE, SEMA, and PRI.
Advice for Aspiring Technicians:
"Buckle down, go to class, apply yourself, listen, and learn. Just because you think you can work on cars does not mean you can. I learn every day. If you cannot accept that there is much to learn, one day you will wake up and be disappointed at the life that you have made for yourself."
Ministry & Community Service
Outside the classroom and shop, I am known as "Uncle B." I proudly serve at Courts of Praise Church in Manteca, California, where I hold several key roles:
* Deacon & Co-President, Board of Directors
* Men’s Ministry President
* Head of Safety & Security
* Maintenance, Operations, & Facilities
Serving the Lord is a joy—as Matthew 11:30 reminds us, *"His yoke is easy and His burden is light."
Personal Life
When I’m not teaching or serving at church, I love spending quality time with my wife and three adopted children. I am an avid firearms collector and enjoy range days practicing marksmanship. Friday nights are reserved for date night, and Sunday mornings are for church!