Roland on the Road: Reconnecting Across California
By: Roland Ewert, Business Development Director
roland@narsa.org
Every so often, you get an unexpected chance to revisit a chapter you thought was long closed. For me, that moment came in early February, when I set out on a road trip for NARSA that took me across a wide stretch of California.
I started from Southern California, where I live, and headed north through towns I used to know like the back of my hand. The miles were relatively easy, except when I hit the infamous Valley Toll fog. Yes, it’s a real thing in the central valley of California. Thick fog, little to no visibility for miles on end. But when it cleared, it was a big relief. Years passed, and as a Territory Sales Manager, long drives were routine. It had been at least twenty years since I’d made this particular run.
My route took me through Bakersfield, Fresno, Modesto, and as far north as Sacramento, then west toward the Bay Area before looping down through King City and Santa Maria. It was a familiar arc, one I’d traced countless times in the past.
My goal was to stop in and see some NARSA members as well as prospective members. Most were also past customers whom I used to work with– many I hadn’t visited in years, but had always respected. I wasn’t sure what to anticipate after so much time had passed, despite the grayer hair these days, and the fact that there’s not quite as much of it. But the moment I walked through their doors, it was as if no time had passed at all. They remembered me instantly. It was a great feeling, one that I really did not expect.
By the time I made it back home, the odometer told one story: 1,100 miles in a week. In hindsight, the memories and the reminder that the relationships you build along the way often outlast the roles you once held.
Looking forward to my next road trip!
Automotive Radiator Service - Bakersfield, CA
Established in 1951, this long‑standing Heavy‑Duty Radiator Shop in Bakersfield, California, has a trusted reputation throughout Kern County. Family‑owned and operated, Steve Bratcher and his son Kevin take pride in delivering reliable cooling solutions for the region’s most demanding equipment. The shop specializes in Class 7 and 8 trucks, agricultural machinery, and oil‑production equipment, providing expert service backed by decades of hands‑on experience.
King City Radiator – King City, CA
King City Radiator has been a trusted name in the community since 2000. Under the leadership of Humberto, the shop has built a strong reputation for expertise in agricultural cooling as well as automotive cooling and general repair. Their team is known for delivering reliable, high‑quality service, and they remain a well‑respected resource throughout the region for both farmers and local drivers.
Pacific Radiator – Fresno, CA
Pacific Radiator has been serving the greater Fresno market since 2008, and in that time, Ignacio has built a trusted specialty cooling shop. He and his team focus on truck, industrial, and agricultural cooling systems.
Today, Pacific Radiator is preparing for its next chapter. Ignacio is actively exploring opportunities to expand operations, which will allow them to better service their customers.
During the trip, Roland also connected with several respected independent shops that reflect the depth and longevity of California’s cooling industry. Visits included Visalia Radiator, Commercial Radiator in Fresno, Western Radiator in Stockton, Pankey’s Radiator in Hayward, and Industrial Radiator in Santa Maria. Each business involves generations of experience, strong customer relationships, and a continued commitment to serving heavy-duty, agricultural, and industrial markets across the region.
Do you have a suggestion where Roland should head next? Email us at info@narsa.org!
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