What began as a second career for James Copeland's father has grown into successful Midwest Autoworx locations in Boonville and Versailles, Mo.

After retiring from a 22-year Army career as a tank and heavy truck mechanic, Copeland's father opened a gas station in Blackwater, Mo. After two years, though, he realized that he missed working with vehicles. He bought a vacant building and hung a sign reading, "Copeland's Garage." With James and his brother working in the shop after school, the business took off immediately.

After attending college, the younger Copeland went to work for his father full time. Six years later, he knew he wanted to own his own business and worked out an agreement to buy the business. Soon after, he moved the shop to Boonville, Mo. Twenty years later, the business has gone through numerous changes, including four additions to the original location and a second location in Versailles, Mo.

Copeland believes one factor in the success of Midwest Autoworx has been its employees. He is very particular about the people he hires and believes that finding and training good employees has made Midwest Autoworx the premier auto repair facility in mid-Missouri. Copeland's belief in his employees is reflected in the company slogan: "Car trouble? We fix anything!"

Midwest Autoworx also puts a strong emphasis on preventative maintenance. When unexpected repairs are needed, though, the shop believes in quality work with a quick turnaround time. Both shops are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and highly trained ASE-certified technicians. They deliver same day service in most cases, and also provide a free shuttle service for local drop offs.

James Copeland believes that a back-to-basics business philosophy is one of the reasons Midwest Autoworx has been a success for over 20 years. As a second-generation, family owned business, they believe in providing customer service the old fashioned way: With a warm smile and a handshake.