Jason Hulsman

In fleet operations, every minute counts. When a mechanical failure sidelines a vehicle, the effects ripple far beyond the repair shop. Delayed deliveries, missed service appointments, unhappy customers, and mounting operational costs can quickly turn a single breakdown into a significant financial setback.  For fleet managers tasked with maximizing efficiency and controlling costs, vehicle uptime is more than a performance metric. It directly drives profitability. That’s why many fleets...

  In the demanding world of fleet management, every moment a vehicle spends off the road directly impacts the bottom line. Downtime isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a significant drain on profitability, leading to missed deadlines, dissatisfied customers, and lost revenue. For fleet managers, optimizing vehicle uptime is paramount, and a reliable partner like JASPER® is crucial. Jasper Engines & Transmissions, a name synonymous with quality remanufactured powertrain compon...

JASPER, Ind. (April 28, 2026) Jasper Holdings, Inc. (JHI), the nation’s 23rd largest Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), announced a new all-time record share value for 2025, reflecting strong company performance and market conditions. Chairman and CEO Doug Bawel said the ESOP share price increased to $1,515.93 per share, up $220.78 from the prior year. “Our ESOP has been a game changer for our Associate-Owners, their families, and the communities where they live,” Bawel said. “Our ESO...

By Joe McDonald Executive Vice President of Sales Jasper Engines and Transmissions  In the automotive aftermarket, our responsibility is simple: provide solutions that work. At Jasper Engines & Transmissions, we constantly evaluate where original equipment designs may be creating challenges for independent repair facilities and fleet operators. One of the most significant examples of that over the past decade has been the failures related to Active Fuel Management (AFM) and the latest GM de...

As fleets face rising costs, tighter delivery windows, and relentless pressure to maximize uptime, the traditional model of returning to the dealer for service is no longer the most effective path. Fleet managers today need more than a repair vendor—they need a strategic partner who understands their metrics, their operational realities, and the cost of a vehicle sitting idle. That is precisely why JASPER created the Fleet Installer Program, a nationwide network of top-tier independent repair...

In many fleets, an invisible wall between drivers and technicians fosters tension because they don’t understand each other’s importance. Drivers want to get back on the road quickly; technicians want to fix things right the first time. When communication breaks down, minor issues get missed, and repairs are delayed, which can increase the chance of driver safety incidents. Bridging this gap is one of the fastest ways to improve uptime, safety, and morale. It starts with redefining ho...

  On April 29th, Associate-Owner Shareholders of Jasper Holdings, Inc. (JHI) Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) received some outstanding news. JHI Chairman/CEO Doug Bawel announced, “A new all-time record price of $1,295.15 per share based on their performance and market conditions, up $171.25 per share. This past year, we had an annual contribution of 15%, with the average contribution across JHI being 18% (including trust fund gain shares).” Bawel shared, “Our ESOP has been a gam...

Objections are a natural part of life, and handling them effectively can turn skepticism into confidence. These eight steps to overcoming objections aren’t just for sales—they’re valuable tools for everyday communication. Whether you’re discussing plans with family, addressing concerns with coworkers, or resolving misunderstandings with friends, these steps help you listen actively, show empathy, and find common ground. By welcoming concerns, rephrasing objections, and focusi...

Driving profitability in an auto repair shop requires a combination of skilled service advisors, robust training, and the right compensation structure. Service advisors are central to sales, gross profits, and customer satisfaction. To help them succeed—and your business thrive—you need a well-crafted pay program that aligns their efforts with these objectives. Here are actionable tips to design effective compensation programs that motivate advisors and benefit your shop.       Align...

The Importance of a Proactive Service Advisor in Your Business Many shop owners take on the role of their service advisor, especially when running a smaller business. However, as your business grows, it’s crucial to recognize that the service advisor becomes the face of your company. The effectiveness of this role can significantly impact your success. Throughout my 30-year career in the Automotive Aftermarket, I had the opportunity to observe service advisors in over 1,000 Independent Repair...