From Classroom to Garage: Larry Zinn on Career Paths in the Auto Industry

Warren Henry Automotive is a long-time sponsor of the Fried on Business podcast. This episode includes discussion of their programs and initiatives as part of our continued partnership.

In Episode 820 of Fried on Business, host Jim Fried welcomes Larry Zinn, Executive General Manager of Warren Henry Automotive, to talk about the company’s groundbreaking automotive vocational training program—a paid, two-year opportunity aimed at helping high school students launch careers in the auto industry.

As the automotive world continues to evolve with technology and electrification, the demand for skilled technicians and service advisors is growing rapidly. Zinn shares how Warren Henry is addressing that gap by reaching out to students who want more than a classroom education. Through this program, participants gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and a real paycheck—all while developing valuable skills that can lead to full-time roles in one of Florida’s most respected dealership networks.

This episode covers how the initiative works, what students can expect to learn, and why supporting workforce development in trades is not just good business—it’s a smart investment in the future.

Whether you're an educator, parent, student, or someone curious about alternative career paths beyond college, this episode delivers real insight into how local businesses can drive impact and opportunity from the ground up.

🎧 Tune in now to learn how Warren Henry is putting young talent in the driver’s seat of their futures.

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Jim Fried has been a real estate business person since 1980 and has had his own radio show since 2009.

Mr. Fried specializes in capitalizing commercial real estate transactions, unearthing urban land opportunities and is also a private lender.

He has been active in the real estate industry for many years as a financial intermediary, broker and investor. He has experience with many property types including, but not limited to: apartments, condominiums, retail centers, office buildings, industrial parks and health care – with a special focus on memory care.

Jim has closed over $3BB in real estate transactions during his career in markets across the eastern US.

Jim uses his communication skills to inform and entertain on his weekly podcast show – Fried on Business. Of course, the show discusses real estate, but he also tackles issues such as branding, sports business, philanthropy, entrepreneurship, public private partnerships as well as health and wellness.

He is also a mentor to many up and coming people in the real estate industry through his membership on the Board of The University of Florida’s Bergstrom Center for Real Estate Studies.

Mr. Fried is a winner of the Miami-Dade Public School Alumni Achievement Award.

Contact Jim via email at jim@friedonbusiness.com