With the acquisition of Auto Tech Systems in December 2013, Koorsen Fire & Security moved into the Akron, Canton, and Cleveland market for the first time. Led by the experienced leadership of branch manager, Ed Helwagen, the Akron branch location has grown nearly 30% by overall sales in the first year.
Strong Leadership
With 18 years of service for Koorsen and more than a decade in the role of branch manager, Ed provides the Akron location with strong leadership skills. A Circle of Excellence award winner for three consecutive years at his previous branch in Mansfield, Ed is committed to achieving the same recognition at the Akron office.
One of the biggest lessons that Ed has learned during his tenure as a branch manager is the importance of following through and following up with customers. Fulfilling promises and maintaining open lines of communications have helped cultivate a family-owned feel at the Akron branch. They strive to make customers feel valued and to build long-term relationships with every client.
Committed and Experienced Staff
The Akron branch is not only friendly, but they are dedicated and experienced as well. With the average years of experience standing at approximately 15-18 years in the industry, the technicians have the skills to do the job quickly and correctly. Several technicians have even more experience, with an astonishing 30 years of service, and some possess the rigorous NICET certification as well. It is essential to work with a company with experience and expertise in the industry to ensure you can trust them to safeguard your business.
Involvement in the Community
The Akron branch employees are not only committed to fire safety in their professional lives; many of them serve their local community as well. Currently, eight members are volunteer firefighters, and one is a full-time firefighter that utilizes his knowledge and expertise at Koorsen as a part-time employee.
The Akron location has cultivated a connection to friends and neighbors living near them, with roots that make them a part of Akron. In their free time, many of the Koorsen employees enjoy target shooting and motorcycle racing -- They have a penchant for the bold!
Building on the Past
Building upon the 30-year track record of Auto Tech in the Akron, Canton, and Cleveland areas, Koorsen Fire & Security is committed to delivering high-quality service to each one of its clients. The high retention rate of Auto Tech employees (85 to 90 percent of existing Auto Tech employees remained after the changeover) is a testament to the excellent culture which Koorsen strives to foster.
Large national chain stores and restaurants are being serviced by the Akron branch location. Recognition of the Koorsen brand is growing in the Akron, Canton, and Cleveland areas. The impressive jump in sales experienced in the first year can be attributed to maintaining a satisfactory relationship with these franchises and chains. Offering more products and services has also helped perpetuate growth in the region.
Focus on the Future
No longer only focused upon fire alarm installation and service, the Akron branch has expanded its available products and services to also include:
- Sprinkler installation and service
- Fire extinguisher sales and service
- Kitchen fire suppression system installation and service
- Commercial and home security installation and service
- Expanded list of clean agent choices:
- FM200
- Inergen
- Novec
- Halotron
Future goals for the Akron branch include increasing its recognition in the community and continuing to provide excellent service for every customer this branch will also be looking for additional large accounts to add to its existing client base and hiring new technicians to service them.
With highly trained and experienced staff, a full line of products and services, and a family-owned feel, you are sure to be pleased when partnering with the Akron branch for your fire and security needs. Visit contact or call 330-762-3343 to learn what they can do for your home or business today.
