Meet Darin Roberge | President of Motorwerks Companies

We had the good fortune of connecting with Darin Roberge and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Darin, do you have some perspective or insight you can share with us on the question of when someone should give up versus when they should keep going?
I’d say there are two main components to consider. First, you need to make sure that you test your idea thoroughly to determine its feasibility before you even get started. For most people, this breaks down to an intricate, well thought out business plan. I’ve written hundreds of these breakdowns over the course of my career and their value is immeasurable. If you need some help with this, the Small Business Administration (SBA) has a template on their website, which serves as a great outline to base yours on.

In regard to giving up, you really can’t. While luck, intelligence and hard work are all important elements of entrepreneurship, success often comes to the one who endures — the person still standing on the field when the game is over usually comes out on top. Look, this stuff is rugged, and you go through points in your career that are extraordinarily challenging both physically and mentally. And, sometimes, you are going to have to regroup and pivot. However, if you give up, success becomes impossible. In almost every situation, giving up is never an option.

What should our readers know about your business?
Motorwerks originally began as an advertising agency serving the specialty, classic and collector automotive field. We worked hard, delivered standout assets and quickly became the industry standard. Not long after, we also began investing our time and resources into helping nonprofits — a quieter but equally important part of our work that continues to this day.

While our roots are firmly planted in the classic car world, Motorwerks has since evolved into a comprehensive, one-stop shop for businesses, enthusiasts and collectors alike. Whether it’s through our event efforts, media products or consulting services, we serve an all-encompassing range of needs across the automotive community.

However, what truly sets us apart is the depth, quality and degree of services we provide under one roof. We’re known not just for our high standards, but also for being approachable, easy to work with and excellent communicators with clientele. We always prioritize our clients, and that focus has shaped every aspect of how we operate.

Most recently, we launched Motorwerks Gives, a formal extension of our nonprofit efforts. It’s a full list of services built to support nonprofits in their fundraising efforts, allowing them to raise funds more effectively, without many of the traditional challenges they often face with pre-existing organizations. It’s something we’ve poured a lot of time and energy into, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’d start the week by taking a day or two to just relax. With weather as good as we get around here, it’s important to slow down and enjoy it. After that, I’d take them to the Heritage District in downtown Gilbert for an evening — grab a bite at one spot, a few drinks at another. The next morning, we’d work it all off with a couple rounds of boxing at Apex Performance Facility. There are some truly outstanding museums in the Phoenix area, so I’d definitely include both the Phoenix Art Museum and Musical Instrument Museum. I’d also say the Desert Botanical Gardens are a must — can’t miss that one.

Once the weekend rolls in, I’d hope to catch an event at DeSarthe Gallery in Scottsdale, then spend the evening bar hopping around the resorts in Paradise Valley. We’d probably wrap the week with whatever car event is happening that Saturday, maybe throw in a scenic drive in one of my cars and then close it all out with dinner in one of the gardens I’ve built on my property.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’ve been fortunate to have incredible mentors since I began working in the classic car industry, and their guidance has played a major role in where I am today. I’d be remiss not to acknowledge how important that support has been. That said, the most influential force in my life has been my parents. They’ve been my greatest asset and most consistent role models from the very beginning.

My parents are ethical, engaged and passionate people who are constantly pushing themselves to achieve new and meaningful things. The way they interact with me — and with each other — has given me a rock-solid blueprint for how to live and work with integrity. Their example has shaped not only how I build my life, both personally and professionally, but also what I expect from myself and the world around me.

I also believe the car community in Arizona deserves special recognition. I truly don’t think I could have achieved nearly as much anywhere else. The passionate collectors, event producers, restoration facilities, support organizations, car clubs, and of course, the incredible enthusiasts who call the Phoenix area home have all played a role. Phoenix is home to one of the world’s premier automotive enthusiast communities, and I remain deeply grateful to be a part of it.

Website: https://motorwerkscompanies.com/  | https://arizonacarweek.org 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darinmotorwerks/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinroberge/

Other: LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/DarinRoberge https://linktr.ee/DarinRoberge

Image Credits
Rachel Tabron, Araya Photography
Rob Mains Photography