After nearly a decade writing code for Bloomberg L.P. and a career defined by constant reinvention, Jasmine Islam is enthusiastically trading in her software for spark plugs.
The 49-year-old Valley Stream resident has opened an AAMCO auto repair shop on Long Beach Road in Oceanside, marking a bold career pivot into the traditionally male-dominated industry — and the realization of a lifelong passion rooted in childhood memories.
“I wanted to do something very different,” Islam said. “This is something I’ve thought about for a long time.”
Islam’s journey to business ownership has been anything but conventional. From 2016 to 2025, she worked as a software developer for Bloomberg — a privately held financial, software, data and media company — capping a broader career in technology that spanned multiple roles. Before that, she owned and operated several small businesses, including ventures in food service, printing and imports.
Islam said her professional path has been driven by curiosity — and restlessness.
“I would learn something, master it, and then I would get bored,” she said. “Once that happened, I would switch to something else.”
But her interest in cars predates her tech career by decades. Growing up in Astoria, Queens, Islam often accompanied her father, a New York City taxi driver, to a neighborhood mechanic.
“It was daddy-daughter time,” she recalled. “I’d walk around, look at the cars, see what was going on. That’s where it started.”
That early exposure grew into a lifelong enthusiasm. Islam estimated that she has owned more than 30 vehicles over the years and has long been fascinated by anything with a motor — from motorcycles to heavy equipment.
Opening an auto repair shop, however, required careful planning. The process began in early 2024 and stretched over two years as she evaluated different business models and locations. She considered launching an independent shop, buying into other automotive franchises and even opening a body shop before ultimately choosing AAMCO.
“I leaned toward a franchise because I wanted the support,” she said, citing access to technical guidance and marketing resources as key factors. “I’m strong in sales and marketing, but there are things I’m not strong in since I’m still learning. If I have questions, there’s someone I can call.”
Her decision was also shaped by conversations with other AAMCO franchisees across the New York metropolitan area, whose openness and mentorship left a strong impression on her. One owner, Jon Tow, whom she now considers a mentor, continues to advise her as she navigates the early months of ownership.
Islam’s shop has been operating in a soft-launch phase for just over two months. A grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony, in coordination with the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce, is scheduled for April 18.
“I immediately fell in love with the space,” Islam said.
The location itself carries deep roots in the Oceanside community. The space was previously home to Olympic Service Station, operated for decades by longtime mechanic Peter Kostopoulos, who remains a familiar figure to many local customers.
“People know Peter. They trust him,” Islam said. “So the biggest thing is earning that same trust.”
That transition has not been without challenges. While many residents have welcomed the new ownership — particularly praising Islam as a woman entering the automotive field — others have been hesitant to embrace change.
“Some people are nervous,” she said. “They’re used to coming here for years, even generations.”
Some customers have been reluctant to book appointments, preferring to wait until they can speak directly with the previous owner, Islam explained. Others assumed the shop was corporately owned, rather than locally operated.
“I tell them, ‘This is my shop,” Islam said. “’Yes, it’s a franchise, but I own it. I’m here six days a week.’”
To build trust, she emphasizes transparency and customer education — principles she says are essential in an industry often criticized for lack of honesty.
“We try to take care of customers the way we would want to be treated,” she said. “If something can wait, we’ll tell you it can wait. We want to be open with everyone. All we need is a chance to take care of you — and we will.”
Her experience as a woman in a male-dominated field has been shaped by her earlier career in technology, where she often found herself in similar positions.
“I’m used to being the exception,” she said. “But things are changing. You can do these things.”
Islam’s long-term vision extends beyond routine repairs. She plans to host educational clinics aimed at demystifying car maintenance, particularly for women, young drivers and older adults.
These workshops may cover everything from changing a tire to understanding when a repair is necessary — or when it isn’t.
“Sometimes people are told they need things they don’t actually need,” she said. “If we can help them recognize that, it’s better for everyone.”
For Islam, the new venture represents both a personal milestone and a renewed sense of purpose.
“I get excited every morning,” Islam explained. “There’s a level of pride when I come in and get to help people.”
As she settles into this new chapter, Islam expressed hope that her business will not only serve as a reliable auto repair destination but also as a community resource grounded in trust, education and empowerment.
“This is something I’ve wanted for a long time,” she said. “Now I’m finally doing it.”
