Today we’d like to introduce you to Jacob Willman.
Hi Jacob, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I graduated from University of Buffalo with a BA in Communication, I am an Eagle Scout, and I am a USN veteran. I pursued civil service after graduation, but worked for my uncle’s HVAC company in New York in the meantime. Working with my hands was very rewarding, and I also realized I can help people with the skills God had given (and was developing) in me. I moved to North Carolina where I worked a small family owned HVAC business. In 2008, I enlisted in the Navy as an electronics technician, which brought me to Florida. After leaving the Navy in 2012, I went back into the HVAC field here in Jacksonville. It was very clear that our industry was suffering from a lack of TLC, and eventually, I believed that I could fill that void. With an emphasis on client satisfaction, I started Willman Air in 2015. It was my goal to not only provide for my family, but to build another family. With God leading us, we have been effectively serving our Jacksonville neighbors for 10 years. We build relationships through trust, transparency, and a go-get-it attitude, which has formed the foundation for Willman Air to keep serving our community well into the future. We never pay our employees by the job, and no receives commission or perks for selling products/services; we simply take care the client. I have often said that we are not a heating and air conditioning company; rather, we are a successful client satisfaction company that just so happens to do heating and air conditioning extremely well! When you have a passion for your trade and the people you serve, you have a very successful business model, AND a very deep satisfaction. I could not have come this far without the support of my wife, Roxie, who has been a cornerstone for my faith, fatherhood, and business. I also wish to acknowledge my loyal employees, who do their best to bring these values to our loyal clients, leaving them with a smile whenever they can.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Seriously? It’s been hard to even STAY on the road at times! This trade comes with it’s own unique struggles: hot attics, scorching sun, itchy insulation, and of course Florida’s famous random rain bursts. However, being a business owner is certainly a road of it’s own, with many more struggles and challenges. Growing has never been a problem… our work and prices speak for themselves, and people hear about these things. Whether it is from a coworker, neighbor, friend, or Google Review, good contractors spread like a wildfire. My biggest struggle was a personal one: the desire to please people. As a home service company, it’s the basis of what we do; but when the phone never stops, and your tired, sometimes you have to say no… I practically killed myself by overworking the first couple of years. Thank God I found the right employees to help spread the load, or else I would not be in business today. Those times also taught me to put God before everyone and everything else in my life; even my clients. Every struggle I’ve gone through was a blessing, bestowed upon me so I can learn. So I can do better. So I can BE better. I am a work in progress, which means the struggles will continue; and I am happy to receive them.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
We stress client satisfaction. Our mission statement has 5 points:
• HONESTY IS POLICY. We pride ourselves on always being honest. We will tell you the truth, even when it hurts. Your trust is our most valued asset!
• THE GOLDEN RULE. “Treat others how you want to be treated”. It holds true in all aspects of life, and our job is no different. We have families of our own and would expect nothing less from any contractor entering our homes. So rest assured, we will treat you as family, and show the utmost respect for your house and loved ones.
• LET’S DO IT RIGHT. We love our customers and we love what we do! Cheap and inadequate repairs can end up costing far more in the long run. We take pride in our work, so we’re going to do it RIGHT, the FIRST TIME, saving you money and peace of mind.
• WE DON’T SELL ANYTHING. We only offer solutions to your problems.
Our employees may suggest a product or repair, but you will never be placed in a
“high-pressure” sales situation. Our #1 goal is customer satisfaction. In fact, it’s our ONLY goal.
• LET’S TALK. Communication is key. While we are in your home, please do not hesitate to voice your concerns or ask any questions. We love educating our customers, so get ready to learn a little bit, too! After we have left your home, we are available 24/7 through email, text, or phone. You can find all that information at the top of your detailed invoice. You can also let us (and others) know how we’re doing through a review on Google, Facebook, or Yelp!
This has been what sets us apart.
Recently I have started a youtube channel in an attempt to help Jacksonville homeowners become more educated regarding their HVAC systems, and also include tips and lessons to save money.
How do you think about luck?
LOL, You can call it luck, but we all know it’s God blessing us. And yes, I have always had a guardian angel following me; I would not be alive today if that were not true.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.willmanair.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/willmanair
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@WAHVAC
