Pub. 5 2023 Issue 5

K.C. Heidler, Tom’s Truck Center EMBRACING CHANGE Established in 1949, Tom’s Truck Center began as a commercial truck repair facility. In 1973, George Heidler acquired the business after owning gas stations and a tow truck operation. By 1984, he transformed it into a franchised commercial truck dealership. Over the years, Tom’s also operated Kia, Suzuki and Isuzu car dealerships and currently owns a Ford automotive dealership. Sadly, George passed away from cancer in 2011, and his son K.C. Heidler, now serves as the president and CEO. Tom’s has two Southern California locations, offering new and used commercial vehicles, parts (both new and recycled) and services for medium to heavy-duty trucks and vans (Class 1-8). They represent leading commercial truck brands, including Allison, Caterpillar, Cummins, Ford, Fuso, GreenPower, Hino, Isuzu, Nikola and REE. Staff members also provide assistance with government incentive programs, charging infrastructure and product education. While still maintaining the Ford dealership, Tom’s primarily focuses its efforts and energy on the commercial truck sector. K.C. was brought into the industry through a combination of childhood experiences and family influence. Growing up around a junkyard and gaining experience by disassembling cars and trucks sparked his interest in parts. This hands-on experience contributed to 32 California New Car Dealer Quarterly

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