Working with glass is nothing new for Trent Alberts of Sully. For the past 17 years, Alberts has worked for Pella Corporation, from installing sashes into window frames to his most recent role of HR compensation and shared services manager. Recently, however, the entrepreneurial bug hit Alberts, and he began examining different business opportunities.
Spurred on, in part, by the success his brother and sister-in-law have experienced in their own businesses, Alberts felt led to follow suit and take the plunge.
“I’ve had the entrepreneurial dream for years, and the timing felt absolutely right,” said Alberts, of his decision to open a NOVUS Glass franchise location in central Iowa. “My wife Kari has been extremely supportive also, encouraging me to go after this dream.”
NOVUS was founded in 1972 and specializes in windshield repair and replacement.
“I’m excited to offer a premium product at a competitive price to the communities I live, work, and spend time in,” shared Alberts.
“I researched many, many different business opportunities,” said Alberts, who ultimately chose the auto glass business. “Simply put, NOVUS provided the integrity, brand recognition, and premium product that made them the clear choice.”
NOVUS is also backed by an attractive national guarantee, supported by a network of franchise owners, chemical and product engineers, and a world-class supply system, additional qualities that made NOVUS appealing to the new franchisee.
As a NOVUS owner, Alberts fixes windshield imperfections, including breaks and chips of multiple shapes and sizes, including any crack repair. His repair and replacement services extend to cars, trucks, tractors, and semis.
“I also offer headlamp restoration and a windshield performance package,” added Alberts. “The performance package includes the application of Aquapel, a professional rain repellant. I also have a variety of windshield wipers available for purchase.”
While his former employer no doubt equipped him with a solid understanding of glass, the window company also drove home several important business values for Alberts.
“My desire is to bring extraordinary customer service, professionalism, and dedication to my clientele in this community and in our surrounding communities,” Alberts said.
To prepare for his new role, Alberts took extensive training, first in Minnesota at the company’s corporate headquarters, where he received factory, corporate, and repair training.
“My time in Minnesota was followed by two weeks in Atmore, Alabama,” added Alberts. “Down south, I had two weeks of rigorous, hands-on replacement training at NOVUS’s regional facility. While in Alabama, I also received my Total Seal Certification, which recognizes technicians who have been instructed in the recommended adhesive installation procedures for automotive glass replacement, which assures customers of quality workmanship and the use of quality products. It was a great experience with supportive people and very extensive and complete training. I left Alabama feeling confident and competent in my new industry. Once back in Iowa, I followed up with in-field training with my regional manager.”
Alberts’s office, as pictured above, is his NOVUS van. NOVUS offers convenient, mobile service.
“We come to you,” explained Alberts. “My area of primary responsibility includes Jasper, Poweshiek, Marion, and Polk Counties, but I can go out to 50 miles in any direction of my base in Sully."
Should you have a windshield claim, Alberts adds that he works with all insurance companies and networks. Backed by the NOVUS brand and guarantee, Alberts assures that his customers will be well taken care of, with prompt, responsive service.
As a franchise owner, Alberts wears several hats. He handles the quoting, scheduling, installation and repair, billing, and invoicing. His wife Kari has been an important part of the new business as well, providing marketing and IT support, in between her day job as a surgical nurse at Pella Regional Health Center.
The couple has three children: Caitlin, 14 and in eighth grade; Elise, 10 and in fifth grade, and Trace, age 6 and in first grade, all at Lynnville-Sully School. The family stays very busy following their children’s sports and other extra-curricular activities.
Alberts also enjoys giving back to the community as a volunteer, having served on the Youth Sports Committee, coaching various teams, and as a youth group leader at Sully Community Church, where the family attends.
His new business has brought with it a few fun surprises along the way.
“I’m amazed at how my past experiences have been so integral in shaping how I run this business,” Alberts shared. “It’s also been fun meeting new people and building new relationships. Business has already been steady, and I’ve been encouraged by how many people have asked me how they can help me grow my business. The community support has been great.”
Looking down the road, Alberts has set a few specific business goals.
“I would love to grow the business to the point of needing additional technicians,” added Alberts. “My desire is to become established as the premier windshield repair and replacement service provider.”
To schedule a windshield repair or replacement, see Alberts’s contact information listed here. His Facebook page will also be coming soon. Be sure to check out Alberts’s opening advertising special located on page 20 of this week’s “Hometown Press,” exclusive to this newspaper’s audience.
Owner: Trent Alberts
Cell: 641-780-4848
Office: 515-412-4471
Toll Free: 800-77-NOVUS
E-mail: centraliowa@novusglass.us
Website: www.novusglass.com
