At Armadillo Automotive, we’ve always believed that commitment to quality shouldn’t stop at the garage door. That same care and pride that we put into every powder coating or ceramic coating job also drives our support for the people in our community. This month, that dedication took a new form when our founder, Shawn Vamvoras, led a cooking team in the 19th Annual Crawfish Cookoff to help raise funds for Amelia — a five-year-old girl recently diagnosed with DIPG, an aggressive and inoperable form of brain cancer.
The event, hosted at Bay Café in Metairie, LA, brought together 17 teams from around the region. But this wasn’t just about competition. It was about showing up for a family in crisis and making a real difference. For Shawn, stepping into that role wasn’t just a personal commitment — it was a reflection of the values we hold as a company. That’s what makes Armadillo Automotive more than just a place for automotive service and repair — we’re a business rooted in people.
Crawfish With a Cause
Representing the Heads or Tails Crawfish Cooking Team, Shawn and four teammates brought their A-game to the cookoff. With Shawn leading the kitchen, the team served up a variety of dishes that captured the spirit of Louisiana cuisine. One of the showstoppers was a unique creation by team member Dennis: Crawfish Boil Eggrolls. These deep-fried delights wrapped all the spicy, savory goodness of a traditional crawfish boil into one crispy, handheld bite. It was bold, flavorful, and unforgettable — and it helped them earn 2nd place among 17 talented teams.
But winning a trophy wasn’t the real victory. Every ticket sold, every raffle entered, and every plate served helped raise funds to support Amelia’s medical care. Events like these remind us that real strength lies in showing up for one another. Whether you’re behind a grill or under a hood, the heart you bring to your work matters.
What This Means to Us
At Armadillo Automotive, we’re known for delivering high-end finishes, durable coatings, and expert craftsmanship. Our powder coating and ceramic coating services are trusted by customers who want results that last. But there’s another layer to what we do — one that can’t be measured in microns or horsepower. It’s the way we stay involved, the way we contribute, and the way we take care of people around us.
Shawn’s leadership at the cookoff wasn’t just about representing our brand; it was about living up to the standard we set every day at the shop. It was about showing that we care — not just about your vehicle, but about your story. We believe in building trust, one job and one relationship at a time.
Giving Back At Armadillo Automotive
It’s easy to talk about supporting the community, but it’s another thing to show up and do it. That’s why we’re proud to highlight Shawn’s role in this meaningful event. It’s not the first time he’s stepped up to support someone in need, and it certainly won’t be the last. Community service is part of who we are, and it’s something we’ll continue to make time for — even during our busiest seasons.
We also want to extend our appreciation to the other 16 teams who showed up with big flavors and even bigger hearts. Together, we created something powerful: a show of support that Amelia’s family will never forget. That’s what true community looks like.
Ready to Work With People Who Care?
When you bring your vehicle to Armadillo Automotive, you’re trusting a team that values integrity, service, and community. Whether you need automotive body and paint work, a precision ceramic coating, or expert powder coating in New Orleans, we’re here to get it done right — with the same care and pride we brought to the cookoff.
Give us a call or stop by today. Let’s get your project started — and let’s keep building a stronger, more connected community, one job at a time.