Locations: 2246 First Ave. S.

When was it founded?

The company was founded in 1985 in Humboldt. Kathy and I (Brian) purchased the company in December of 1997 and it has been located at our present address in Fort Dodge since that time.

Who are the key leaders? Owners: Brian and Kathy Forsythe, service managers: Mark McGuire and Heath Hansch, parts manager: Kevin Dolder and administrative specialist: Deb Dooley.

-Messenger photo by Chad Thompson
Austin Powers, an employee at Hiway Truck Equipment Inc., works on an electrical box attached to a truck at the shop.

How many people does it employ?

A total of 15; 12 full-time employees and three part-time employees.

What services and products do you provide?

Sales and service of truck equipment, industrial parts supply, trailer and equipment repair.

What are you doing differently to serve

customers due to the COVID-19 pandemic?

Increased sanitizing of all traffic areas, closed off shop areas to employees only, more communication online and on the phone, masks are available for all employees, maintaining social distancing.

What is the biggest challenge your business has overcome recently?

We have been fortunate that we had a sizeable backlog of vehicles scheduled into the shop, so the mechanics have all stayed busy. The walk-in traffic for parts and service has decreased significantly. We have experienced some parts and equipment shortages with some manufacturing facilities closing due to the virus. We have had to look for some new sources for essential items to keep jobs going.

What is the biggest success your business has experienced recently?

The shop expansion that was completed in June of 2018 has increased the amount of vehicles that we are able to get through the shop. We have added more mechanics to help get vehicles completed in a timely fashon. We are still struggling to keep up with demand as sales have increased dramatically over the last three years. We greatly appreciate all of central and northern Iowa for their tremendous support they have shown us.