Meet Our Team
Kellyn Karr
Founder and Technician
Kellyn Karr was born in Fort Myers, Florida. His father gifted him Canadian birthright citizenship upon his birth which is something he is very proud of. Being Flornadian, Kellyn has a very “unique” accent. His father spent many hours in the garage, sharing his love for automotive with Kellyn from a very young age. That experience grew into a passion, graduating from Universal Technical Institute in 2006 and moving on to work for Toyota, Hyundai, Subaru, Mitsubishi, and eventually independents. In 2012, he founded Karr Automotive out of his driveway and never looked back. Today his passion for all things automotive shines through not only himself, but his employees. A very passionate owner/operator who is committed to leaving a positive impact on the industry.
Favorite Brand: Too easy. You all know.
Favorite Vehicle Color: Anything but black
Monica Cubillos
Human Resources & All-Around Badass
Monica Cubillos works behind the scenes at Karr Automotive, overseeing administrative tasks and HR duties while working diligently. Since joining the company in July 2020, she has played a key role in keeping operations running smoothly.
Born in Sarasota, FL, Monica is proud of her Colombian heritage, a gift from her remarkable parents. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of South Florida—a background that has proven invaluable in her role. Over the years, she has had the privilege of watching Karr Automotive grow into the well-oiled machine it is today.
Monica is incredibly proud to be part of a team that is dedicated to breaking the stereotype of traditional automotive shops as impersonal, untrustworthy, and outdated. Karr Automotive strives to create a welcoming, transparent, and customer-focused experience. "Thanks for giving us the opportunity to show you what an automotive experience should be—honest, accurate, and data-driven. Welcome to the family!"
She also happens to be the Baby Momma to Sivan—a mutual project between Monica and Kellyn.
Favorite Vehicle Brand: Toyota
Favorite Vehicle Color: Green
John Keller
Technician
John Keller has been in the automotive industry for over 25 years. His passion for the field comes from a deep interest in understanding how electrical, electronic, and mechanical systems work. He finds great satisfaction in diagnosing issues and bringing vehicles back to peak performance.
With a strong commitment to quality, John prides himself on performing repairs the right way, using the best automotive parts and maintaining complete transparency with customers. His technical expertise and dedication make him a valuable part of the Karr Automotive team.
John chose Karr Automotive because of its unwavering commitment to integrity and excellence in vehicle repair. He appreciates being part of a team that prioritizes doing the job right the first time and treating customers with honesty and care.
Favorite Vehicle Brand: GM
Favorite Vehicle Color: Black
Roy Samad
Technician
Roy Samad has been passionate about the automotive industry since he was 16 years old. He is fascinated by automobiles and enjoys the challenges that come with this field.
As a dedicated worker, Roy strives to thoroughly understand car issues and fix them efficiently. He takes pride in delivering high-quality work and ensuring customer satisfaction.
Roy chose Karr Automotive because of the wonderful team members and the positive work environment. The company provides him with the tools he needs to perform high-quality work, allowing him to continue his passion for automotive repair.
Favorite Vehicle Brand: Toyota
Favorite Vehicle Color: Blue
Jorge Torres
Service Writer & Technician
Jorge Torres has been working in the automotive industry professionally for over 11 years. His journey began at a young age, fixing family vehicles alongside his uncle, which quickly transitioned into building performance vehicles. From drag racing to rally and eventually drifting, his passion for cars grew from a hobby into a lifelong career.
Starting as a technician, Jorge worked his way up to becoming a Ford Master Technician before transitioning into a service advisor role after a decade in the field. In 2017, he first approached Karr Automotive about a job but was told they weren’t hiring at the time. However, life came full circle when, years later, he received a call from Kellyn inviting him in for an interview.
From the moment he stepped into the shop, Jorge knew this was where he belonged. The top-of-the-line diagnostic equipment, clean and open workspaces, and welcoming team made an immediate impression.
Since joining Karr Automotive, Jorge has found not just a workplace but a close-knit family. He takes pride in being part of a team that values professionalism, continuous learning, and a great work environment.
Favorite Vehicle Brand: Ford
Favorite Vehicle Color: Blue
John Arnold
Service Manager
Born in Minnesota, John Arnold moved to Southern California at a young age. His journey in the automotive industry began at 18 when he started working in a retail automotive parts store. By 21, he relocated to Rhode Island, where he balanced roles as a technician and a parts counter associate. It was there that he met his future wife, and in 1995, they decided to start a new chapter in Florida.
Upon arriving in Florida, John worked in a dealership parts department in Cape Coral before transitioning to a large retail tire center. Moving from store to store as needed, he helped achieve sales goals and build strong customer relationships. In 2000, he accepted a management position at a startup repair shop in Naples, where he played a key role in growing the business into a well-respected establishment.
John and his wife have built a wonderful family together, welcoming their first daughter, Ashley, in 2002, followed by twins, Alex and Alyssa, in 2006. In 2022, they celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary. Around that time, John and a couple of friends ventured into the competition BBQ circuit, which has since become one of his favorite pastimes.
In 2023, John joined Karr Automotive with a clear mission: to help take the company to the next level alongside an incredible team and a hands-on, dedicated owner. His passion for customer service, team leadership, and continuous improvement makes him a valued part of the Karr Automotive family.
Favorite Vehicle Brand: Toyota
Favorite Vehicle Color: Red
John Stone
Parts Manager
John Stone is the Parts Manager at Karr Automotive, where he oversees inventory, parts purchases, returns, shipping, and receiving, along with various other responsibilities. His meticulous attention to detail ensures that the shop runs smoothly and efficiently.
John began his career in the automotive industry in May 2000 as a parts runner at a Chevrolet dealership in Lee County, FL. Over the years, he has expanded his experience by working at multiple dealerships, including another GM dealership, an Infiniti dealership, an RV dealership, and even a brief stint at AutoZone. His diverse background has given him a well-rounded understanding of the parts industry.
What keeps John engaged in the automotive world is its constant evolution. He finds it fascinating to watch how automotive technology continues to advance—combining with non-automotive innovations to create vehicles that are more fuel-efficient, powerful, and reliable than ever before.
When asked why he chose Karr Automotive, John credits the owner, Kellyn. Coming from a dealership parts background, stepping into this role was unfamiliar territory. However, after speaking with Kellyn, he knew this was where he was meant to be. "His attitude and personality are traits that are far less common than they should be—and definitely something this industry could use a lot more of."
Favorite Vehicle Brand: Toyota
Favorite Vehicle Color: Blue
Mike Rowe
Shop Foreman
Born in the '80s, Mike Rowe's passion for automotive repair started early. His father, a former military mechanic specializing in fighter jets and tanks, opened Rowe’s Garage in Essex County, Massachusetts, after his service. Weekends at the shop gave Mike a deep understanding of how cars work, and by age 10, he was already rebuilding carburetors and starters.
Years later, Mike worked alongside his father at a friend’s repair shop, continuing to sharpen his skills. He then spent over 16 years as a Subaru flat-rate technician, undergoing extensive training with the brand. Looking for a new challenge, he transitioned to the independent shop environment, where he could expand his expertise even further.
Now at Karr Automotive, Mike has found what he calls “the best shop I’ve ever worked in.” He takes pride in being part of a dedicated team that never stops learning and always strives to provide the highest level of service.
Favorite Vehicle Brand: Subaru
Favorite Vehicle Color: Black
Nelson Ramos
Technician
Nelson Ramos, born in Miami, Florida, proudly embraces his Cuban and Peruvian heritage. From a young age, he developed a passion for automobiles, learning the trade at his father's repair shop—a passion that evolved into a lifelong profession.
With over 20 years of experience in automotive repair, Nelson is an ASE-certified technician who takes great pride in his work. Seeking a better work environment and opportunities for professional growth, he chose to join Karr Automotive. Here, he continues to hone his skills and contribute to a team dedicated to excellence.
Favorite Vehicle Brand: Nissan
Favorite Vehicle Color: Grey