K & M Auto Service Opens Third Location, Raises the Bar for “Green” Business Standards
Portland, OR (PRWEB) September 25, 2013 -- K & M Auto Service was founded in 2007 by Matt Stewart. Stewart’s tale is a unique story of overcoming the odds through dedication, hard-work and a commitment to excellence. Stewart grew up in a tough family situation; both of his parents were severely handicapped with cerebral palsy. After some trying times, he eventually ended up in foster care at the Cordero Home for Boys.
After dropping out of high school to get his GED, Stewart began working hard to support himself. He was introduced to automotive repair around 1994 and his future became clear. With goals of being the best in the industry, Stewart decided to enroll in college in 2004. He graduated with honors from the Clackamas Community College Automotive Technology program in 2006 and opened K & M Auto Service shortly after.
As K & M gained a reputation as a top quality automotive service center in Portland, they decided that giving back to the community would be an integral part of their business. Each year, K & M helps award scholarships for automotive students and looks to the Clackamas Community College Automotive program when hiring new employees. Stewart has spoken for the Home Builder’s Foundation to raise money for shelters that house women and children. He also helped in rebuilding his former childhood residence, the Cordero Home for Boys.
With all of the harsh chemicals used in the industry and since they’re constantly replacing metal parts, K & M knew they had to do their part to implement “Green” business practices. “We feel a serious responsibility to mitigate the potentially damaging impact the automotive repair and maintenance business can have on the environment,” Stewart declares. They utilize a number of resources to ensure automotive liquids are cleaned and recycled. Discarded tires are picked up and shredded into products used for mulch. Heavy metals and batteries are reclaimed for recycling and remanufacturing. They also participate in the Jasper Preferred Installer Program, which re-manufactures engines, transmissions and many other automotive parts which carry a 3-year/100,000 mile transferable warranty.
With a focus on providing the highest level of customer satisfaction, K & M is involved with organizations that help promote high standards. The National Automotive Trades Association (NATA) has helped establish a code of ethics that requires members to provide an unmatched level of customer satisfaction. They’re also involved in the International Automotive Technicians Network (IATN) and TECH-NET Professional Auto Service network, an invitation only program reserved for the best facilities that adhere to the strictest standards.
With the ever-changing technology in the automotive world, K & M requires a high-level of continuing education for their mechanics. “All of our technicians are required to take 80 hours of ongoing training per year, through CARQUEST Technical Institute,” says Stewart. CARQUEST Technical Institute’s focus is to conduct world-class training for professional technicians.
With such a strong commitment to excellence and customer service, K & M Auto Service is recognized by the community of Portland as one of the highest rated automotive service providers around. They recently opened a third location in order to better serve the city they call “home”. The new K & M Auto Service facility is located at 16116 NE Halsey Street, Portland, OR 97230. If you need an automotive repair service you can trust, give K & M a try. They will exceed your expectations.
Matt Stewart, K & M Auto Service, http://www.kandmautoservice.com/, +1 (503) 252-9577, [email protected]
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