The Journey of Kurt von Ahnen
Kurt von Ahnen started his career in the automotive industry working in service roles. What initially seemed like a promising career soon became challenging as he encountered unethical practices at various dealerships. These experiences made him question whether the problem was with him or with the automotive industry itself.
Kurt recalled wondering why he couldn't keep a job, as each time he helped a dealership turn profitable, management would pressure him to do things he found unethical. One incident involved a manager asking him to sign off on a fraudulent $19,000 warranty claim, which Kurt refused, considering it illegal.
These experiences deeply influenced Kurt’s commitment to integrity. A mentor later assured him that the issue wasn’t his principles but the industry’s flawed practices, strengthening his resolve to stay true to his values.
A New Path: Transitioning to the Powersports Industry
Kurt’s shift from the automotive to the powersports industry was a major turning point in his career. After years of dealing with unethical practices, he found a new purpose at Ducati North America, which is where his career ultimately soared.
His entry into Ducati happened almost by chance. Kurt was hired to write a course on fixed operations management, inspired by his book, “Service Writing in Black and White,” which he wrote based on his experiences in the automotive world. Ducati was impressed and asked him to teach the course, which he eagerly accepted.
What started as a temporary job quickly became a full-time role when Ducati decided to bring their training program in-house. They soon offered him a permanent position, and Kurt was happy to take it, marking the beginning of a successful new chapter in his career.
Revolutionizing Ducati’s Training Program
When Kurt joined Ducati North America full-time, his main task was to revamp their training program, which had become inefficient due to reliance on external contractors. This system led to unaccounted expenses, inventory issues, and inconsistent training quality.
Kurt was given the freedom by his boss, Austin Gray, to make significant changes. He streamlined the program, reducing it from a two-week in-person class, to a one-week course with online content. However, some technicians arrived unprepared, falsely claiming they had completed the online coursework. To address this, Kurt introduced a pretest on the first day of class, allowing only prepared technicians to continue. This decision was controversial at first, with some participants threatening lawsuits. Kurt stood firm, explaining that the class couldn't be adjusted for those who were unprepared.
After a few sessions, the new system proved successful, doubling the number of certified technicians, while cutting training costs in half.
Building a Legacy: Mañana No Mas and Powersport Academy
After his successes at Ducati and Suzuki, Kurt channeled his extensive experience into creating something truly his own. He founded Mañana No Mas, a portfolio of learning and membership-based websites, with Powersport Academy as its centerpiece. Powersport Academy is designed to enhance dealership performance by boosting parts and labor sales, improving customer satisfaction, and reducing employee turnover—a win-win for everyone involved.
What makes Powersport Academy unique is its practical and efficient training approach. Instead of pulling staff away from their dealerships for long periods, the program integrates live coaching, homework, and an online community, allowing participants to learn while staying on the job. “We designed the program to avoid the usual costs and disruptions,” Kurt explained. “We offer live coaching, meaningful homework, and a connected online community where students can collaborate. It’s a game-changer.
The Journey to Italy
Kurt’s journey wasn’t just about professional success; it was also about realizing lifelong dreams. As a child, he was captivated by Italy, inspired by the travel shows he watched on PBS. Growing up in a poor neighborhood, he never imagined he would one day travel abroad, let alone visit Italy.
That dream became a reality when he joined Ducati, an Italian company. Soon after starting, he was sent to Italy on business—a surreal experience for someone who had once given up on such dreams. “I never thought I’d leave the U.S., and then suddenly, I’m working for Ducati, and they’re sending me to Italy,” Kurt said. “It was incredible. I ended up making about 15 trips to Italy, and after getting back in shape, I even returned for a Spartan Super race.”
This experience brought Kurt’s journey full circle—from a young boy with big dreams to a successful professional who made those dreams come true. “It was a full circle moment for me,” Kurt reflected. “From dreaming about it as a kid to actually living it—it’s something I’m truly proud of.”
The Legacy of a Resilient Professional
Kurt’s journey exemplifies resilience, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. From his early days in the automotive industry, where he steadfastly upheld his ethical standards, to his pioneering work at Ducati and subsequent entrepreneurial ventures, Kurt has consistently shown a dedication to doing what is right, optimizing processes, and empowering others to succeed.
His personal transformation and the fulfillment of his lifelong dreams underscore his belief in the importance of balance and the pursuit of passion. Today, through his work with Powersport Academy and Mañana No Mas, Kurt continues to inspire others, demonstrating that with the right mindset and dedication, one can overcome challenges, achieve professional success, and lead a fulfilling life.