“If you’re not training, you’re falling behind.”

Wade Fremling’s professional journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, integrity, and lifelong learning. With over four decades of experience across the automotive and wholesale industries, Wade’s career exemplifies a steady climb from humble beginnings to influential leadership roles in both corporate and community arenas. His path reflects not only technical mastery and business acumen but also a deep commitment to service—both to his industry and the people who power it.

From his early days at Trucks of Duluth, where he began as a broom-pushing technician’s helper, Wade quickly distinguished himself as a driven learner with an innate mechanical aptitude. Recognizing his potential, the company invested in his growth, training him to become a Journeyman Heavy Truck Technician. This formative experience laid the foundation for his career-long philosophy that hard work, continuous improvement, and curiosity are the cornerstones of success. His understanding of automotive operations from the ground up gives him a unique perspective that few executives possess—a perspective rooted in firsthand experience rather than distant observation.

As his technical expertise deepened, Wade’s leadership capabilities began to shine. Transitioning from technician to management, he became an indispensable part of several major automotive organizations, including Ford and Chrysler dealerships, where he served as a Service Advisor, Warranty Administrator, and Service Manager. His tenure in these roles was marked by innovation in customer satisfaction processes, strong mentorship of team members, and the cultivation of efficient, high-performing service departments. He achieved Chrysler Gold Certification in all service operations, solidifying his position as a trusted leader capable of balancing operational excellence with a customer-first approach.

Currently serving as an Account Manager for BG Automotive and Partsmaster, Wade continues to bring his expertise in sales management, service optimization, and client relations to a broad range of commercial clients. His role demands a balance of technical understanding, sales strategy, and interpersonal finesse—skills he has refined throughout his career. Wade’s deep familiarity with the automotive aftermarket, coupled with his ASE certification and extensive service background, allows him to help businesses maximize profitability while ensuring ethical practices and sustained customer trust.

Wade’s leadership extends far beyond business operations. In 2014, he stepped into the public arena, running for the Minnesota House of Representatives. Although a political newcomer, his grassroots campaign resonated deeply with his community. Earning 38.7% of the vote against a 38-year incumbent, Wade’s campaign was widely respected for its authenticity, work ethic, and ability to connect with voters across diverse backgrounds. His opponent would later admit that she had never worked harder in an election—a testament to Wade’s relentless dedication and the trust he inspires in others.

Community involvement has always been central to Wade’s life. He currently serves on a nonprofit board supporting children with autism and contributes his time to a school board dedicated to advancing automotive education. His passion for mentorship and youth development reflects his belief that real leadership means investing in future generations. Additionally, his twelve-year commitment as a Salvation Army Bell Ringer highlights his compassion and willingness to stand—sometimes literally in sub-zero temperatures—for causes that matter.

Wade’s career has also taken on a global dimension through his exposure to international markets and perspectives. This global awareness enriches his approach to leadership, enabling him to navigate cultural nuances and industry dynamics with poise and adaptability. Whether managing complex service operations or guiding organizational strategy, Wade brings a global mindset that values diversity, inclusivity, and innovation.

Beyond his professional achievements, Wade is a man deeply grounded in family, faith, and the outdoors. Married for over forty-three years, he and his wife have raised three children and now cherish their two granddaughters. When he isn’t leading teams or developing business strategies, Wade finds fulfillment in horseback riding, hunting, fishing, and barbecuing—activities that remind him of the importance of balance, reflection, and connection to nature. These personal passions mirror the qualities that define his professional life: patience, precision, and an appreciation for both challenge and reward.

Currently in the process of authoring a book, Wade seeks to share his life lessons and professional insights with a wider audience. His writing embodies his core values of perseverance, humility, and the pursuit of excellence—values that have guided him throughout his career. Having spoken on numerous topics throughout his life, he continues to inspire audiences with stories of resilience, adaptability, and the unwavering belief that anyone can rise to success through integrity and hard work.

With over forty years of experience, Wade Fremling remains a consummate professional dedicated to growth, leadership, and making a difference. Whether building teams, solving complex challenges, or mentoring future leaders, his career reflects an extraordinary blend of technical expertise, strategic foresight, and genuine humanity. He embodies the principle that leadership is not about titles or positions, but about the lasting impact one leaves on others.

Character:
Wade’s character is defined by humility, perseverance, and an unwavering sense of integrity. He treats every individual with respect, from entry-level technicians to corporate executives, fostering an environment of trust and collaboration. His authenticity and moral compass have earned him the respect of colleagues, clients, and community members alike.

Knowledge:
With over forty years in the automotive and wholesale sectors, Wade’s knowledge is both deep and diverse. His ASE certification and Chrysler Gold status reflect a technical mastery complemented by strategic insight into business operations and customer satisfaction. He continues to expand his understanding of emerging industry trends, integrating both hands-on experience and modern best practices.

Strategic:
Wade approaches every opportunity with a clear vision and tactical precision. His leadership is grounded in data-driven decision-making and a long-term perspective that balances profitability with sustainability. Whether optimizing service departments or guiding organizational growth, he ensures that every decision aligns with both ethical standards and strategic objectives.

Communication:
Wade’s communication style is empathetic, direct, and impactful. His ability to listen—what he calls “the most important part of sales”—sets him apart as a leader who values understanding before action. Whether engaging with teams, customers, or the broader community, he conveys his message with clarity, sincerity, and purpose.