Today our CEO students had the opportunity to visit Landers Towing and Collision Centers of Mt. Vernon, where we heard directly from Manager Chase Landers and Body Shop Manager Cory Thorsen.
Landers Collision began in 1988 in a small pole barn and has grown into a thriving, family run business with locations in Salem, Mt Vernon, Nashville, Edwardsville, and St Jacob. Their steady growth is a testament to vision, grit, and a willingness to evolve.
Chase and Cory shared insight into operating in both business to business and business to consumer markets, the importance of establishing proof of value when working with loans and lines of credit, and how credibility drives long term success. They emphasized staying relevant in your market and being willing to change with the industry rather than resisting it.
One of the most impactful conversations centered around technology. Advances in vehicle systems and the rise of AI are directly shaping their business. From diagnostics and estimating software to the complexity of repairing today’s vehicles, continuous investment in training, equipment, and certifications is essential. The message to our students was clear. Businesses that adapt are the ones that continue to grow.
We are grateful to Chase, Cory, and the entire Landers team for opening their doors and investing in our young entrepreneurs today.
