Back in October 2005 we had the privilege of hiring one of the Icons of the Towing and Recovery Industry to provide a two-day training class for us, members of the Garden State Towman's Association. Joe Sroga has been a friend to the industry dating back to the early days of training classes where previously it had been the “school of hard knocks” and “learning on the fly” while hoping for the best outcome. Joe and associated friends have provided training for many groups over the years, as well as owning his own business catering to towing and recovery and has sat on the SAE Towability Committee as Chairman bringing his expertise and association with manufactures to the table.
As with all classes of this type the day begins with the basics. Safe lifting capacity, Safe Towing Capacity, chains, wire rope, winches, hook-ups and brake systems. On both days the practical starts late morning or early after noon right after lunch. In conjunction with members of GSTA, scenarios were set up. Depending on the needs of the class and the available equipment a variety of subjects can be and were taught from one lane up righting to basic hookups. In all scenarios, Joe stresses safety.
When all was done on Sunday afternoon we had once again satisfied some inquiring minds and with Joe's help gave us the confidence that we had helped another group put more tools in their tool box with the knowledge they gained.
It is my personal opinion that Joe Sroga is a knowledgeable, well-versed and highly qualified instructor in this industry.
Stanley E. Sikora
Board Member GSTA
Chairman Metropolitan. Section of SAE
Owner Olde Tyme Towing stansoldetymetowing@att.net
For over a decade, Joe Sroga has shared his towing and recovery expertise through informative and timely articles in Tow Times magazine, the premier publication for the towing and recovery industry. No doubt his knowledge has benefited thousands of our readers, from beginning operators to seasoned professionals.
Tim Jackson
Editor, Tow Times magazine
I have known Joe and his family since I was a young boy. Joe has always
been willing to help my family and our towing business, which was
technically a competitor of his, with everything from training to fixing our
tow truck at 1 or 2 o'clock in the morning.
I largely credit Joe and Star Training with instilling confidence and
knowledge in our staff which has allowed us to grow into a towing company
that can handle any call for service that we receive.
Through towing seminars taught by Joe, usually hosted by the Minnesota
Professional Towing Association, and several "in house" training sessions at
our shop, Joe has helped us become more competitive and profitable. Our
damage claim costs dropped drastically when our company became committed to
industry education offered by Joe and Star Training.
Joe's knowledge of towing and recovery techniques is unmatched. His ability
to relate to the average tow truck operator allows him to connect with them
on a level in which they can learn. My staff typically argues over who is
going to attend a training seminar taught by Joe because they all want to
go.
I have learned a lot through the "school of hard knocks", however Joe's
influence has allowed me to think through tough recovery situations and
complete the job sooner and without damage. Furthermore, Joe's phone number
is on my cell phone speed dial. Joe jokes in his classes about doing
recoveries by phone, but I'm here to tell you that he really does. He has
an uncanny ability to get you to stop, step back, and think the situation
through.
Joe and Star Training are second to none and my family and our towing
business is forever grateful for his help.
Brett Letourneau
President, Citywide Service Corp.
