Most chain auto parts stores employ whatever they can get for the buck. But belittling them won't get you anything. Like some have said, if it is a young guy take a little time to teach. I have found that a lot of them have project cars of their own and are willing to learn.
I have an indy parts place that is strictly parts and machine shop. The guys there are very knowledgeable. In fact, one of them knows just about any German make, especially VW's, inside and out. They are folks I can call early in the day and have my parts ready for pick up on the way home. Some of the parts may cost a couple of dollars more, but places like that make it up in service. My $$'s are spent more in places that provide service.
