AUTOINC. ONLINE - Shop Profile

Exterior of Jake's Radiator in Norwalk, Ohio.

Jake's Radiator Inc. in Norwalk, Ohio, strives to provide the highest quality service at a fair and reasonable price. Owner Howard C. Wilde III began working for Jake's in 1980 as a technician. After two years as an employee, Wilde had the opportunity to purchase the business. Since 1982, Wilde has worked diligently, along with his dedicated staff, to ensure his customers receive top-notch service with a personal touch.

Wilde began his automotive repair career as a teen working with his father at a local truck center. "You might say I inherited my interest in automotive repair," said Wilde. His grandfather was the truck maintenance manager for Norwalk Truck Lines and in addition to his father's employment at Midway Truck Center, his mother once owned a trucking company.

Howard C. Wilde III, owner of Jake's Radiator, is shown in front of the many training certifications that adorn the walls of the customer waiting area.

After purchasing the business, Wilde continued with the mission the previous owners had put in place. With ownership comes the responsibility to oversee all aspects of the business. "I do everything from working on vehicles to analyzing the financial statements," said Wilde. He is quick to point out that his staff is very capable and qualified for each position; Wilde just prefers to stay in touch with all areas of the business.

The 3,200-square-foot facility offers its customers big-city conveniences and services with small-town care. Jake's currently employs four full-time staff members, including Wilde's son, Greg, and performs approximately 30 repairs per week. "We are able to provide service on any type of vehicle. We have worked on everything from motorized wheelchairs to road graders and everything in between. Jake's has a reputation of having the most advanced equipment in the area," said Wilde.

In addition to high-tech equipment, Wilde is a firm believer in ongoing technical training. This is apparent by the numerous course completion certifications that adorn the walls of the facility. To further the automotive repair industry and his staff''s knowledge, Wilde regularly conducts manufacturers' training courses at the facility for area shops.

Pictured (l to r): Howard Wilde with employees Jeff Eastman and Wilde's son, Greg. Eastman has been employeed at Jake's for 13 years.

Jake's is a NAPA AutoCare Center. The business was honored for the sixth consecutive year by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) for meeting and exceeding the requirements for its Blue Seal of Excellence Recognition Program. The Blue Seal program is presented to companies where ASE-certified employees comprise a minimum of 75 percent of the staff.

Additionally, at least one automotive repair professional must be ASE certified in each area of service offered by the facility. Wilde, who earned his first ASE certification in 1978, is an ASE master-certified technician. As a result of his commitment, Wilde has earned the NAPA/ASE Tech of the Year Award for the Columbus District eight consecutive years.

This continuous drive to succeed has made Jake's a highly reputable firm in the area. The business regularly advertises in the Yellow Pages, newspapers and direct mail pieces. However, customer referrals have proven the most successful advertising method. Through his everyday pursuit of providing the highest quality repairs and services, Wilde has grown his customer base to more than 4,900 with a projected annual sales volume of $400,000.

Howard Wilde talking to his son, Greg.

Wilde has lived in Norwalk his entire life, providing him a distinct advantage of knowing his community. "I believe in order to have a strong business, you need a strong community," said Wilde.

Wilde has made it part of his business philosophy to support the community that has made Jake's successful. He achieves this through various ways, including sponsorships of numerous youth activities such as school sports, the Boy Scouts, local charities and community events.

In addition to sponsorships, Wilde regularly speaks to area youth regarding careers in the automotive industry. He also provides insight into owning and operating a small business. Wilde has successfully chaired and coordinated several community activities such as the "Operation Clean Sweep," a United Way community event designed to beautify the city of Norwalk.

Pictured (l to r) are Sharon Braker, front office manager, and technicians Jeff Eastman and Greg Wilde.

Wilde also volunteers his time for several community organizations including the Chamber of Commerce, the United Fund and the Boy Scouts funding committee. "I hosted the Boys Scouts at my shop in order to help them earn their automotive merit badge," said Wilde.

The number of accolades Wilde and Jake's Radiator have received from various organizations and groups literally fill a three-ring binder. Wilde's commitment, dedication and sincerity should be commended.

For all he does for his community and business, the Norwalk Area Chamber of Commerce honored Wilde with its Dedicated Service Award. The Chamber annually accepts nominations from the community at large for businesses that exhibit outstanding customer service and community support and involvement.

Wilde's industry involvement is just as impressive. His affiliations include memberships in the Car Care Council, the National Auto Radiator Service Association, National Federation of Independent Business and the Service Technicians Society. In addition, Jake's Radiator has been an Automotive Service Association member since 1998. "I believe professional organizations such as ASA provide support for small independents through information, training, technical issues and governmental issues," said Wilde.

Wilde and his staff have proven that a combination of quality service, dedicated staff and community support equal a profitable, professional and successful business. Jake's Radiator has been built on a strong foundation and will continue to prosper for many years.

Shop Stats

Name: Jake's Radiator Inc.
Location: Norwalk, Ohio
Square Footage: 3,200
No. of Employees: 4
Business Philosophy: “Take care of your customers if you want them to remain your customers. Treat each repair as if you were doing that particular repair in an effort to win that customer for life, because you are.” - Howard C. Wilde, III

Business Mixes Community Support With Industry Involvement To Achieve Success, Professionalism

Shop Stats