Providing Quality Automotive Service, Repair & Classic Care  Since 1986

Every R&K Precision Auto Mechanic is 100% ASE Certified. That means that no matter what you drive, R&K Precision can provide the top-notch auto work and peace of mind you need to stay on the road. And by continually expanding our certifications, you can trust that we’ll always provide you with the latest state-of-the-art solutions.

R&K Staff

Meet the R&K Team

Rich Vlacci, Owner/CEO

Rich’s love for cars started at an early age. His curiosity on how things worked as a child, led to disassembling and reassembling everything. His love and passion for automobiles have won him numerous prestigious awards.

Rich started R&K Precision Autoworks at the age of 22, and over 30 years later the passion is still the same. He is ASE, NYATTP, NYS and ATI certified.

Rich’s hobbies are classic cars and he is the “go to guy” for classic car repair and restorations.

Rich on guitar

Kathy Vlacci, Owner

Kathy is the “K” of R&K Precision. When R&K first opened, their clients would ask to speak to “Kevin” or “Kenny”…funny!

When R&K opened in 1986, they had the auto repair service, gas pumps and a mini-mart. Kathy was working as a computer programmer in Southampton. Within a few months, she was full time at the business, taking care of all the bookkeeping and paperwork. Over 30 years later, Kathy is still behind the scene making sure R&K Precision is running smoothly and the clients are getting the best service and care R&K can provide.

During her off time, Kathy enjoys any time spent with her family and she finds solace in helping out at Spirits Promise Horse Ranch where she volunteers for a wonderful cause. It gives her an inner peace to be with these gentle giants.

Andrew Hetherington, Service Advisor/General Manager

Andrew has been with R&K since 2009. Prior to R&K, Andrew has 20+ years auto body and paint experience. He is a PPG certified refinish technician.

Andrew’s educational degrees include an associates degree in Accounting and a bachelor’s degree in Business Management/Accounting. He is also ATI certified in Automotive Service Advisor/Manager.

Andrew lives in Riverhead, NY with his two dogs which he considers his children.
He is a big sports fan and enjoys basketball and golf and spending time with friends and family.

Andrew is the face of R&K and will assist you in all your service needs.
R&K is proud to have Andrew as part of their team.

Rob Tennenberg, Technican

Rob is a 20+ year technician at R&K. Before R&K, he worked for Grumman installing and manufacturing electrical equipment on aircraft.

Rob is an ASE Certified Auto Technician, Certified NYS Inspector, and ATI trained. He has attended numerous courses on automotive technology throughout the years. He can handle any job that comes his way. Rob specializes in computer and electronic automotive circuitry.

Rob’s pride and joy is his custom built 1976 Monte Carlo which he established himself as a frame-off restoration. He enjoys spending time with his wife Gerri and his Akita, Mika.

Rob is a big asset to the R&K Team, and they are proud to have him.

Frank Vlacci, Assistant Manager/Service Advisor

Frank is a valuable family member who has been with R&K since the beginning. He has a vast knowledge of all aspects of the automotive service and repair industry. Frank started as a technician and is now the Assistant Manager and Service Advisor. He is one of the friendly faces you see at the counter.

In his free time, Frank enjoys time with his family and playing the drums.

Frank Vlacci Drummer 12th House

James Doolan, Technican

James joined R&K in May of 2017. He was formerly a manager at Maryhaven but decided to follow his passion for working on automobiles. He obtained his ASE certifications through the Boces Program.

His hobbies are enjoying cars, motorcycles and ATV’s in his free time. He is a hardworking, proficient technician and R&K is happy to have him as part of their team.

Hyundai Repair & Service

Edward Nordenberg, Technican