RR 129: Jerry Holcom from S & S Service
With nearly 50 years’ experience in the automotive field, Jerry Holcom 
is an ASE Certified Master Auto Technician with the Advanced Engine Performance (L1) certification, a former Certified Master Machinist, and is also an Accredited Automotive Manager (AAM) through the Automotive Management Institute. Jerry owns S & S Service in Kansas City, MO.
A Must Listen!
This is a very special interview with Jerry Holcolm. He’s been through some challenging times recently when he was diagnosed with cancer and Parkinson’s. Jerry tells of the support he has received from his loyal staff and how they stepped up to the plate to support him. A truly great and sensitive story.
The Start
Jerry said no to his father when he was offered to buy the business. Jerry went on to work in dealerships and then purchased the business from the owner, that his dad had originally sold the business to, 10 years later. He has learned great lessons over the years and
he shares the big ones.
Loves Tech
He has provided four separate computer-driven information databases to his staff and ensures that they are provided with ongoing training in both technical and business management and customer service. Jerry was a trendsetter back in 1983 when he programmed a Tandy RS Model 3 to track his daily numbers.
Investment in technology and equipment
Jerry is always looking to provide th
e training and special tools necessary, both OE and aftermarket. He credits having the latest tools for being able to provide that “old-fashioned service” that his clients have been receiving since the 1950s. This also helps in employee retention, as evidenced by the 13-year average length of employment for the staff.
Work with ASA-Midwest
He has served on the Board of Directors and as the vice-president of the Automotive Service Association Greater Kansas City chapter. He currently serves as president of the ASA-Midwest affiliate.
Jerry was one of the founders of Kansas City’s VISION High Tech Training and Expo. He feels that the future of the automotive repair industry will hinge on information availability, technical proficiency, and total customer-driven service methods. Through his association with VISION, especially as the award committee chairman for many years, Jerry was able to present many $1000 scholarships to students wanting to enter the automotive trade.
Relaxing
For fun and relaxation, Jerry enjoys reading, woodworking, and walking with his dogs, Jake & Sam. He and his wife Kris are avid professional drag racing fans.
Link To S & S Website here.
S & S Service Overview:
| Years in industry: | 49 |
| Years in business ownership: | 34 |
| Number of technicians: | 3 |
| Number of Lifts and Bays: | 8 |
| Annual estimated volume: | $750K |
| Days Open: | M-F |
| Special Accreditation’s: | AAMwith 755+ credits -Service Manager Shelly McGuire and Service Manager Bryant Moyer both have their AAM |
| Trainer/Coach: | Currently with Elite and formerly for 10 years with Bottom Line Impact Group |
| Association Memberships: | ASA – ASE – AAA |
| ASE Blue Seal Certified: | Yes |
| Certifications: | ASE Master Auto L1 |
| Supplier: | Carquest Tech-Net and on their advisory council |
| Philanthropy: | Donor for Technicians of Tomorrow Scholarship Foundation and on advisory council for two community college programs |
Jerry Holcom’s Recognition’s and Awards
| Motor Magazine ASE Technician of the Year 1988 |
| Fel-Pro Tech-Pro of the Year 1988 |
| AAA Approved Auto Repair shop since 1992 |
| Top 10 Finalist for Carquest Excellence Award 1993-1995 |
| Carquest National Excellence Award Winner 1995 |
| NAPA/ASE Tech of the year Local Finalist 1994-1995 |
| ASA Mo-KAN Facility of the Year 2006 |
| Motor Age Top 10 Shop Finalist 2007 |
| Best Dressed Shop at Vision 2010 |
| AMI Dedication to Education Award 2014 |
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