January 9th was the date set for partners and friends to come together in Fort Wright, KY for a very special occasion. The group had assembled to honor the 10-year Anniversary of INA Towing and its ribbon cutting at the grand opening of their new National Operation’s Center. A large contingency of towers of INA’s Tow Elite Provider Network started arriving in town Wednesday a day ahead of the celebration. This time was used by all to catch up, compare notes on what has been working well for everyone’s business, and to share in the joy for Gay Rochester and INA’s success and commitment to this industry.
Gay stated “INA is proud of the industry support that has been offered over the years, and that was a crucial building block in INA’s success.” Talking with some of the staff, it was apparent that not only was this industry Gay Rochester’s passion, but a passion of everyone of INA’s employees. Many said working for INA was an absolute joy. They spoke of how they internalize their customer’s needs and look for solutions for their clients to ensure their safety and efficiency while on scene.
Tow Elite, Element Fleet Management, attendees from TRAA, and American Red cross were all blown away by the new facility. Anyone that knows Gay knows how she loves to decorate for Christmas. The office was “outfitted to the T” and looked like a winter wonderland. I remember thinking how you could come to work here and not be filled with joy. The new facility has a state-of-the art call center, conference room, training facility for new employees, and full kitchen and wellness center that had all the necessities needed to make you feel like you were at home. Cold drinks, and a spread of finger food and sandwiches were on hand for all to enjoy, and we did!
Gay used this opportunity to unveil INA’s Awareness Mural Campaign for Driver Safety. In an industry that has become increasingly dangerous while working roadside. INA strives for driver safety on every call. Gay stated, these towers are our building blocks, that put every brick in our facility. Our network of towers strives to do a great job for our clients being timely and efficient; however, INA’s biggest concern is getting them and customers home to their families safely. This safety push is seen most clearly in INA’s “Over One, Lose None” national campaign (overone.org) which seeks to raise public awareness of their power of life and death on our nation’s highways.
After the group left the headquarters, we enjoyed a delicious meal at Lisse Steakhuis in Covington, KY were awards were presented to those who had provided outstanding service and leadership within the towing and recovery industry.
Awards were given to INA Provider Partner, Darin Ficenec, VP of Element Fleet Management for Element’s global commitment to innovative solutions shared with INA provider partner delivering safety and extraordinary service within the industry.
The Super Star Award was given to Cynthia Martineau, TRAA Executive Director for the TRAA’s success in fostering and promoting “the interest and welfare of all towing and recovery operators in North America and to towing professionalism and quality customer service throughout the world.”
Also, INA’s annual donation was presented to the American Red Cross showing INA’s commitment to give back and specifically to a group whose mission is to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and donated resources.
INA’s commitment and passion for the industry has resulted in a top-notch company that strives not only to meet needs but to go above and beyond every customers’ expectation. The description on the front door of their new facility says it all, “INA moves beyond where ordinary rests- this is where extraordinary begins.” The sky is the limit with the passion and direction harnessed by INA, we look forward to seeing what the next ten years will bring. Thanks again for Gay Rochester’s and INA’s vision and love for the industry and all the men and women that step out of their safe place, so our families can be protected and helped in their time of need!
