Owners:
Ryan - Owner
Ryan Hicks is the engine and the heart of Ryan’s Automotive. A Santa Rosa native, he practically grew up wrenching in this very garage (it was his dad's shop!). Ryan drove that childhood passion straight to an ASE Master Technician certification, mastering virtually all domestic and Asian vehicles. He stays sharp by keeping up with the newest tech and collaborating with peers through ASCCA and ATI.
When the wrenches are down, Ryan loves adventure: snow skiing, boating with family, and traveling.
Cheri - Owner
Cheri Hicks is the passionate Owner who makes sure every customer feels at home at Ryan’s Automotive. While she may not wrench, she's a master of the garage environment, having grown up helping her dad restore classic cars. With a BA in Psychology (UC Irvine) and ongoing auto coursework, Cheri's superpower is helping you understand your car's needs clearly and stress-free. She brings strong leadership and customer focus from her background as a head gymnastics coach and in sales.
When she’s not leading the team, Cheri is focused on outdoor adventures—camping, boating, and traveling with her husband and two children.
Service Advisors:
Chris – Service Advisor
Born and raised in Sonoma County, Chris brings years of experience as both a technician and a Service Advisor. He started his career specializing in diesel engines before moving to the front counter, where his love for helping people really shines. Chris lives with his wife, cat, and dog, and in his downtime enjoys local craft brews and competitive disc golf—he’s even been sponsored!
Travis – Service Manager
Travis has been with Ryan’s Automotive since 2021. A Healdsburg native, he’s a loving husband to his wife Anna and proud dad to two young boys. He enjoys camping, fishing, bike rides, and cheering on Bay Area sports. Always friendly and helpful, Travis brings great energy to the front counter every day.
Technicians:
Abel – ASE Certified Technician
Abel joined Ryan’s Automotive in 2019 and brings years of experience, including time at Toyota. He’s ASE Certified and skilled in everything from routine service to major engine repairs. A proud car club member, Abel shows off his classic Plymouth and brings his passion for cars—and people—to everything he does. When he’s not working, you’ll find him dancing salsa, singing, or planning his next travel adventure.
Chris – Master Technician & Foreman
Chris is a lifelong automotive professional and our go-to expert for electrical diagnostics. As a Master Technician and Shop Foreman, he leads with calm confidence and a passion for mentoring the next generation of techs. A Windsor local, Chris is a loving husband and proud father of two football-playing sons. He enjoys camping, Sonoma County wine, and cruising in his fully restored classic Blazer. We're lucky to have him on our team.
Ignacio – Lube Technician
Ignacio started at Ryan’s Automotive in 2018 as a Windsor High intern and has grown with us ever since. From sweeping floors and running parts to working the front desk and now training as a lube tech, he’s gained a full-circle view of the industry. He’s currently attending the JC Automotive Program and will graduate next year. A true car enthusiast with an eye for detail, Ignacio is a rising star and a key part of the Ryan’s Automotive team.
Manny – ASE Certified Technician
Manny is a Windsor native and ASE Certified Technician who brings over seven years of experience from working at Chevrolet. From electrical diagnostics to basic maintenance, he’s a well-rounded, capable tech who gets the job done right. A new homeowner, Manny spends his off time renovating his house and enjoying the outdoors with his fiancée—especially hiking and camping right here in Sonoma County.