While Ron Wilder was serving in the Army National Guard in the late 1980s, he never thought the skills and discipline he had developed would one day help him launch his own business. By Patty Horansky
While Ron Wilder was serving in the Army National Guard in the late 1980s, he never thought the skills and discipline he had developed would one day help him launch his own business.
During his eight years in the military, Wilder worked in Ohio and became a certified public accountant, before he landed in Georgia, where he worked with major corporations, including the Atlanta Housing Authority.
Believing his true purpose was to be an entrepreneur and to teach others, Wilder began exploring franchise opportunities about six years ago.
Now, instead of donning a corporate hat or military fatigues, Wilder wears the iconic yellow insignia as the owner of 1-800 WATER DAMAGE of North Fulton, in Alpharetta, Georgia.
“I wanted something in the area of helping individuals, and what better way than when they’re going through a property disaster,” he said.
1-800 WATER DAMAGE uses the most advanced methods and equipment to dry floors, walls, ceilings, furniture and personal effects damaged by water, mold, fire, sewage and more.
Wilder was impressed by the umbrella BELFOR group and its reputation for integrity, expertise and customer satisfaction. “I didn’t know anything about this kind of business,” he said. BELFOR has been with him every step, from a month of training at its headquarters in Ann Arbor, Michigan, to hands-on experience and ongoing support.
In a $210 billion industry, 1-800 WATER DAMAGE is among the most affordable, fastest growing and largest property restoration franchises, even while offering discounts to veterans. “The military teaches you to be very disciplined and to follow a set of rules,” Wilder said. “That’s ideal for a franchisee.”
About 90% of Wilder’s calls are from distressed homeowners who have experienced water damage from leaky toilets, refrigerators, water heaters and other sources. Wilder educates and empathizes with these homeowners who often are experiencing a disaster for the first time. “It’s a tough thing to go through,” he said.
He and his team of four trained technicians are on-call 24/7, and Wilder often works on-site to ensure that industry standards are followed.
1-800 WATER DAMAGE has territories available for those who possess people skills, a willingness to build relationships and a desire to help others.
Patty Horansky