Dennis Walczak loves cars. He drives them; he works on them; he sells them; he collects them. A corvette enthusiast, Dennis is now a happy owner of a Z06. He collects older machines as well, like vintage gas pumps and oil cans, a tractor and an old motorcycle. “Figuring out how things work led to a good work ethic,” he says. “Having this knowledge gave me the base for figuring out how to service clients better.”

Dennis started out in the auto repair industry on his own. Then, in 1988, he rented what was a 2-bay gas station and started building his shop. Eight years ago, he bought the house on the corner (Transit & French), tore it down and built a 6-bay repair shop. He has since started a towing business – a flatbed and tow truck – and also added used car sales to his many services.

His customers and employees will tell you Dennis is a very fair man. Dave, a 20-year employee says, “That’s why we’re here with him. Dennis is honest, does what he needs to do to keep his customers happy. He’s an extremely smart businessman. We admire him.”

Dennis’ wife Donna works for HSBC. They have two great kids. Jeremy, 21, works as a tech with Dennis at the shop. Jeremy is a 2008 recipient of an ATE scholarship. Daughter Jennifer, 24, works with the disabled at PeopleInc.

At home, Dennis does not sit still either, always tinkering around the house and has just expanded their kitchen. But for relaxation, he and his family like to spend any spare time they have at their condo in Florida.

ATE Executive Director Bob Gliss has known Dennis for many years, their kids having gone to school together. He has watched Dennis’ business grow since belonging to ATE. Both men see the value of sharing ideas and putting them into practice. Walczak’s Auto Service started small and continued to grow the right way. And Dennis has grown to be a happy and successful businessman.