Detour : My Journey from High-Powered Attorney to Auto Mechanic Trade School and the Hard Truths Learned Along the Way

Would You Quit Your Job to Pursue Your Dream?

David W. Ellis was a successful lawyer, but he was not happy. He wanted something else. In particular, he wanted to learn to work on cars. So in one big leap of faith, he quit his job and enrolled in technical school.

The other students, all of whom were decades younger than David, could tell he was different―he had money. This contrasted heavily with their own financial struggles as they studied to be auto techs. And yet, they couldn’t anticipate the enthusiasm with which David pursued his passion for learning. David became a “bro” and found kindred spirits among the 18- and 19-year-olds who were his classmates.

David brings you along for the ride as he relentlessly pursues a year of technical school, sharing his experiences along the way:

• A series of exciting adventures and unfortunate misadventures. 

• What he learned about himself from taking a huge risk and going all in. 

• The practical difficulties of working with your hands for a living. 

• An honest portrayal of courage as he describes his transformation from successful lawyer to auto technician. 

• A look into the financial challenges faced by technicians in the auto industry, many of whom start their careers with little or no money.

• Hard truths about life, learning, and getting outside of your comfort zone. 

• And much more...

If you’ve ever considered leaving your job to pursue your passion, or if you’ve ever wondered what daily life in technical school is really like, then you will want to read David’s authentic observations and insights. Let DETOUR’s story of embracing uncertainty motivate you to follow your own path, whatever that path may be.