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From Oil Changes to Leadership: SVCC Alum Jacob Myrick Leads with Hands-On Experience
Southside Virginia Community College (SVCC) is proud to highlight the journey of Jacob Myrick, a resident of Greensville County, a graduate of SVCC’s Automotive Program and current Service Manager at Boyd Chevrolet GMC of Emporia, VA. Myrick’s story reflects the value of hands-on training, career development, and the power of persistence.
Growing up, Myrick found joy in working with his hands and spending time outdoors. While still in high school, he gravitated toward the automotive field, believing that even if he didn’t pursue it as a career, it would be a valuable life skill.
In 2015, Myrick earned his Automotive Tune-Up Certification from SVCC. Armed with knowledge and practical skills, he joined Boyd Chevrolet GMC of Emporia, VA in 2016 as an oil change technician. “Having the certification allowed me to stand out in the crowd,” Myrick said. “I learned a lot of hands-on skills, and the instructors at SVCC were intelligent and helpful.”
Within just a few months, his dedication and training paid off. A mechanic technician position opened at Boyd, and Myrick was ready. With continued on-the-job learning and support from Boyd’s extensive training programs, he rose through the ranks to earn the title of World Class Technician, the highest designation awarded in the industry.
His hands-on education at SVCC laid a strong foundation for success. “Diagnosing, pulling parts, working with electrical components all made me more comfortable with the tools and the language of the trade,” he shared.
In January 2025, Myrick was promoted to Service Manager at Boyd Chevrolet. Now in a leadership role, he actively recruits and mentors new team members, giving special attention to applicants with prior certifications or automotive training backgrounds. “We want our team members to grow, and Boyd is big on promoting from within,” he explained. “Having that foundation through a program like SVCC’s really makes a difference.”
Myrick encourages students and job seekers to consider SVCC’s automotive programs. “I’d absolutely recommend SVCC. Back when I took classes at Fort Pickett, there was even mileage assistance funding available. I’m very grateful to both SVCC and Boyd Chevrolet for the opportunities I’ve had.”
SVCC is proud to support students like Jacob Myrick who picture the possibilities and turn their passion into lasting careers. To learn more about Southside Virginia Community College’s Automotive program, visit southside.edu.
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