Meet Ross Glenn, the founder and CEO at Protech Commercial Vehicle Outfitters (protechcb.com).
Tell us a little about your business. – We basically take a vehicle and turn it into a “work” vehicle. By adding components like ladder racks, shelving, lift gates, tool boxes, gas tanks, dump bodies or flatbeds, we can customize a vehicle for each type of work and then on top of that, we can narrow it down to what is the most efficient for each technician. We have unmatched expertise and commitment to excellence, and have emerged as a leading player in the commercial vehicle outfitter industry. We pride ourselves on our ability to provide a diverse range of services from cargo management and storage solutions to van upfitting and custom fabrication. Our state-of-the-art facility is equipped with the latest technology and tools to provide a seamless client experience, from the initial consultation to the final product delivery. We prioritize remaining at the forefront of industry trends and best practices to ensure the delivery of top-notch products and services, whether it’s a fleet of one or a fleet of 200.
How did you get started in the business? – While working as a journeyman electrician in a family business I often helped with setting up and organizing each new vehicle that was added to the fleet. While doing this I realized that there wasn’t really any business that provided this service in the metropolitan area. I saw this as a great opportunity and thought I could take this need one step further by offering customization.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – Starting out, the early challenges were finding vendors, cash flow and building a customer base. Today, my biggest challenge is finding qualified staff to help grow the business with a nationwide employee shortage taking place.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – Having the opportunity to win and team up with large fleets. By working closely together we solve problems, implement new products while maintaining their fleet. Together we become partners with the customer that lasts for many years.
Tell us a little about your family. – In September, I will celebrate 35 years of marriage to my wife Trish. We were blessed to have two sons and a daughter. All the kids have worked in our business. Brent and Dean have important roles in sales and management while Kyla moved on to be a mom and homemaker. Our children have given us four wonderful grandchildren and the fifth is due in August!
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – Taking the leap of faith and starting my own business.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Spend quality time being a grandpa.
Who inspires you? – My savior, the Lord Jesus.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – Make yourself indispensable to the customer.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Kind.
What local nonprofit organizations are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – Rapid Relief Team and One School Global. Rapid Relief Team helps those in need, and One School Global is a global private school that nurtures each student’s potential.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – The Bible.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – rglenn@protechcb.com; (712) 328-1310; protechcb.com.