Employee Spotlight: Emily Protzner

Emily Protzner, Walser Toyota

Do what you love. Love what you do. That phrase is one that Walser Toyota Customer Specialist Emily Protzner lives by daily. Automotive is the place where her work and hobbies collide.

Protzner, who joined Walser in 2020, grew up working on cars with her dad. She became an avid auto show goer, learned how to work on her vehicle, and likes to lend a hand on her friends’ cars, too.

“It’s a therapy and hobby of mine,” Protzner said. “No other girl got as excited as I did for a tool kit and Hot Wheels for Christmas.”

After graduating from the University of Minnesota with a degree in Strategic Communications, she turned her hobby into a career at Walser Automotive Group.

“I remember my mom buying a vehicle from Walser and her car search, and I loved going to dealerships with her and figuring out all the new technology. She always told me I should have worked at a dealership because of my love for cars, and I took her advice,” Protzner said.

Protzner said she found a home at Walser Toyota. One of Walser’s 16 franchised locations in Minnesota, Walser Toyota was ranked the region’s #1 Toyota dealer in February. It’s a powerhouse and a flagship location for Walser. Protzner said it’s also a great place to learn.

“From the new CRM to the new building plans, I look forward to seeing this dealership grow and to expand my product knowledge and skill level as well,” she said. Construction for a new Toyota building will begin in 2021.

As a company, Walser focuses heavily on the support of women in the automotive industry. According to Catalyst, women still comprise less than 25% of people in automotive roles. It’s a stat that’s not lost on Protzner. Still, she sees the benefits of her diversity in the role.

“While sometimes it’s challenging to be young and a woman in this industry, I also believe it is rewarding and that I belong here,” she said. “The industry is evolving, and more women should be a part of it. Walser as a company is very well-rounded and is constantly striving to modernize.”

Walser’s utilizes its Employee Resource Group Women of Walser (WoW) to provide a broad swath of personal and professional development opportunities.

“A rising tide floats all boats,” said WoW President Angie Kruger. “What’s good for women in this industry is good for all. That’s why we actively create events that aim to engage all Walser employees, not just women.”

This week, WoW hosted a weeklong series of events to support International Women’s Day on March 8. The events focus on a tie to business acumen, literacy of the automotive industry, mentorship, and personal support.

Protzner, an automotive buff in and out of work, is soon approaching her first anniversary on the job. It’s got her reflecting on the basics of the work.

“My favorite thing about working for Walser is the fact that I get to meet new people every day and talk about something that I am passionate about,” she said. “With a background in marketing, digital media, and the knowledge and love that I have for cars, working for Walser was the best decision I could have made, and I love it here.”

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