Since their early start , the Conways have been loyal attendees of the NATDA Trailer Show , often bringing along service managers , technicians and other employees . Alongside educational presentations and product discovery , Patrick credits the dealership ’ s ability to create a clear , informative website to the show .
“ It really grew our business that year ,” he remembered .
Along with website development , the Trailer Show first connected the dealership with Kenect , an NATDA member benefit . The partnership has helped the company focus on retention and growth on a long-term basis . In Conway ’ s opinion , much of the company ’ s success is due to extended growth in its service department .
“ Service in this day and age is tough to find ,” Conway explained . “ That ’ s whether you are bringing your car somewhere or getting your refrigerator fixed .”
Today , the dealership boasts a 3,800 square-foot building with four full-time technicians . According to Conway , hiring and retaining technicians is no short-term project . The dealership prides itself on great , long-term employees , from people who are knowledgeable on the technical side to those with a good mindset .
“ We can teach people how to fix things , but we can ’ t teach attitude ,” divulged Conway . “ A great example is our lead technician , Jacob Roussard , who has been with us for ten years . He can do almost everything now .”
Empowering employees is a pillar of Tucson Trailer Company ’ s successful mission . The Conways keep doors open for their employees and show them that growth is possible , even in a small business like theirs . Once the owners take a chance on someone and show them the difference they are making , more often than not , it pays off .
When asked how dealerships can emulate Tucson Trailer Company ’ s success , Conway cites hard work and persistence in addition to their signature , employee empowerment .
“ The growth didn ’ t come fast ,” explained Conway . “ It was a grind , day in and day out , 365 days a year . That is your recipe for success .”
22 NATDA Magazine www . natda . org