Garage door industry magazine for garage door dealers, garage door manufacturers, garage door distributors, garage door installers, loading docks, garage door operators and openers, gates, and tools for the door industry.
Issue link: https://idoi.epubxp.com/i/105596
DOORDEALERDIALOG Steve's Overhead Door Company employs 24 full time personnel and 1 part time person, operates 14 trucks and vehicles, and has been serving the greater Lafayette market for the past 23 years. A long term IDA member, the company has also achieved IDEA Accreditation status. They have been at their present location for the past nine years, following a move from downtown Lafayette. Without exception, I always inquire about a firm's Mission Statement during my interviews. In this case the statement is brief, to the point, but most certainly reflects the values expressed to me by John: "Our Mission is to provide quality products, superior service, and exceed customer expectations." I think the key word used is 'EXCEED'. Meeting customer expectations is just not good enough for the people of Steve's Overhead Door Company. As previously mentioned, John drove me to a job site where I was shown the installation of a 20' wide by 26' tall C.H.I. model 6181 flat slat door with opener – exterior mount. John explained that they had to build a new opening to accept the weight of the replacement door. The end use of the building was a recycling center. I experienced the project up close and personal as John took me up to the height of the opening on a scissor-lift. It was an impressive installation for sure especially for a guy who isn't real crazy about heights. It is interesting to note that John began his door career after a successful, but brief period in the grocery store business. Having started as a sack boy at the age of 16, John quickly moved into various management positions and ultimately was named a manager. While employed by the grocery, he worked his way through college (Purdue University, of course). When the company ultimately demanded that he relocate to Chicago, he decided to remain in Lafayette. It was at this point when he decided to purchase an existing garage door business from his brother-in-law. Prior to that point, he'd never installed a door in his life. As a side note, the grocery chain is now known as Jewel. I learned that due to the diversity of businesses and institutions in Lafayette, the economy has remained stable while other communities have experienced significant downturns. Having Purdue University located nearby as well as Subaru, Cargill, and Caterpillar most assuredly helps as well. New residential construction remains to be a significant market for the company where it maintains an approximate 76+% share. Continued on page 18 "…we invest a great deal in our employees…" left to right: General Manager, Chad Hodgen, Sales Manager, Jeff Hobaugh, Inside Sales, Jeff Swindenhammer, President, John Riehle, Office Manager, Michaele Bolka, Assistant Manager, Kristi Coffey, Outside Sales, Jon O'Neil V O L U M E 4 6 I S S U E 1 2 0 1 3 17