We thought Friday was the final round. Then the replies kept coming. Here are four more 2027 Top 50 Installers, in their own words, presented by CEoutlook and ME Magazine.
CHAD SCHREIBER, Schreiber Auto Design, San Diego, CA
- What install from the past year are you most proud of, and why?
My best build this year was a full custom trunk installation in a 2026 Shelby Super Snake. The client is a great customer who gave me complete creative freedom. It pushed me to use all of my skills in lighting, aluminum finishing, and custom stitching. Everything was designed to match the factory colors and finishes. - What skill separates you from the average installer?
I own the business. That lets me guide the build from start to finish. If I feel it’s necessary to invest extra time to take a project to the next level, I have the flexibility to do so. - What’s the most important skill to focus on in 2027?
Communication with other shops, along with attending as many trainings as possible. With industry standards constantly evolving, knowledge is the key to staying ahead. - What tool or product has made you more efficient in the bay?
A 3D scanner, which has become much more affordable. If you’re willing to put in the work to learn it, combining 3D scanning with CAD software opens up endless possibilities. - Who helped shape you as an installer?
Larry Frederick was the first person to take me under his wing. Phoenix Gold was right down the street from my house. One day I walked into the building, something consumers typically don’t do. The secretary happened to be away from her desk, so the very first office I walked into was Larry’s. He taught me system design and the fundamentals of basic electronics. - What advice would you give a young installer who wants to make this list?
Caring. The difference between an install that is merely adequate and one that is incredible comes down to caring: about quality materials and products, about the customer loving the result, and about the details, so anyone looking at the finished work can see the craftsmanship. Never be afraid to reach out and ask questions. Learn all you can, every way you can, and care enough about your craft to keep growing.
THOMAS SHAFER, Blossom Installations, East Stroudsburg, PA
- What install from the past year are you most proud of, and why?
A steel-body ’32 Ford Coupe, originally finished in the 1990s with a full tweed interior, a popular trend of that era. I designed and installed a DSP audio system that added modern function while staying true to the car’s character, with seamless dash integration and wireless charging, enhancing the vehicle without becoming its focal point. It was the culmination of years of experience: fabrication, system design, integration, and attention to detail on a level that pushed me into a new tier as an installer. - What skill separates you from the average installer?
A commitment to performing every installation at the highest level of professionalism. Remote starters, lighting, ADAS, dash cams, heated seats, CarPlay, basic audio or advanced DSP systems, I approach every project with the same dedication. My goal is to exceed expectations. If an installation does not meet my standards, the vehicle does not leave my shop until it does. - What’s the most important skill to focus on in 2027?
This industry has always faced evolving challenges: GM’s Passlock in the early ’90s, Ford’s first PATS system in 1996, Chrysler’s multiplexed wiring, and by 2001 the Chevrolet Trailblazer needing one of the first external interface modules, pioneered by companies like TriLogix in Canada. Through all of it, the most important skill has been the willingness to keep learning and adapting. For a new tech today, I’d say become highly proficient with a digital multimeter. It remains one of the most valuable diagnostic tools we have. - What tool or product has made you more efficient in the bay?
A year ago I moved from a 1/4-inch tabletop router to a permanent 1/2-inch dual-router workstation with dust collection, a downdraft cutting and sanding table, and a full selection of bits and templates. The speed, accuracy, and repeatability have been impressive. On the technical side, MECP Expert certification and professional information systems like ProDemand are essential. Instant access to wiring diagrams, component locations, and panel removal procedures, combined with a DMM, lets you work efficiently and with confidence. - Who helped shape you as an installer?
In the mid-1990s I met David George and George Romberger. David built car audio systems; George focused on home audio. Neither saw their work in separate categories. To them, it was simply “audio.” That perspective still shapes my approach. In 2022 I attended my first national learning conference and expo, and since then I’ve attended many more, growing not only as an installer but in sales, marketing, leadership, and business management. - What advice would you give a young installer who wants to make this list?
Success begins with passion. Beyond technical ability, genuinely care about every installation, because each project becomes part of your professional legacy. This career is a journey. Take the time to appreciate each stage, because the pursuit of excellence is just as rewarding as the achievements themselves.
CHRIS REED, Stereo and Video Center, Tyler, TX
- What install from the past year are you most proud of, and why?
The 2024 Nissan Altima I helped my boss, James Halter, with. I’m most proud of it for competing in SQ and getting a spot in a magazine. - What skill separates you from the average installer?
Continuing to want to learn more. - What’s the most important skill to focus on in 2027?
Knowledge of what is new and changing in the industry. - What tool or product has made you more efficient in the bay?
Maestro and Firstech products. - Who helped shape you as an installer?
James Halter has helped me and continues to help me, believing in me and showing me fabrication I didn’t know. - What advice would you give a young installer who wants to make this list?
Always be willing to keep learning.
MIKE HUNGERFORD, KarTele Mobile Electronics, Waterbury, CT
A Top 50 Installer for the fifth straight year, Mike co-owns KarTele Mobile Electronics.
- What install from the past year are you most proud of, and why?
The most recent build I’m really proud of is a sub enclosure for a 2010 Audi R8 I recently completed. What stands out is that it’s the first enclosure I’ve ever done completely digitally. I designed it in Fusion, then fabricated it with a mix of 3D printer, CNC router and laser cutter/engraver. - What skill separates you from the average installer?
My entire skill set. On any given day I can go from installing lighting, to audio, to remote starters, and maybe finish the day tinting windows, and anything in between. Then there’s the ability to fabricate, process, wrap and install custom builds. - What’s the most important skill to focus on in 2027?
I don’t believe the vehicles are more challenging. We just need to use different products and use a little caution, especially with EVs and hybrids. Luckily for us, the major difficulties lie with the manufacturers. Once their engineers figure it out and release a reliable product, it’s simply up to us to install it correctly. - What tool or product has made you more efficient in the bay?
The iRTA2. It’s so much quicker to understand what’s happening in a vehicle before you run into issues than the older way of doing it with different products. - Who helped shape you as an installer?
Mario Buzzelli. Mario has since passed away, but he hired me as an installer many years ago. He showed me so many techniques I still use today, and he really helped me understand how things work in a retail environment versus in my own garage. - What advice would you give a young installer who wants to make this list?
Listen. Pay attention to those willing to teach, attend trainings, ask questions, and actually listen to the answer.
That wraps up our 2027 Top 50 Installer series. Thank you to every installer who took the time to pull back the curtain on their work, and congratulations again to all of this year’s honorees.
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