Kurt Gustafson joined Wake Up Tri-Counties from the future expansion of Gustafson Ford in Kewanee. Gustafson Ford has been a family business for 75 years, with Kurt heading the family business for 40 years. Kurt talks about how he got started in the automotive business as a kid and a new apprenticeship program with Kewanee High School as a way to give back to the community. A local car dealership in Kewanee is making big strides in developing future automotive technicians right in their hometown. Gustafson Ford is undergoing a major expansion, converting a neighboring property into a state-of-the-art technology center. The dealership has teamed up with Kewanee High School and Ford Motor Company to create a pipeline for young talent, offering students hands-on training, Ford certification, and an apprenticeship rotation with Parkland College. This effort means students can graduate high school with valuable credentials and a head start on a career—while also supporting local businesses and strengthening the community. With an expanding facility and a dedicated effort to train young, local talent, the program aims to benefit not only the dealership but also the wider business community needing skilled technicians.
Ford Motor Company has brought recognition to the small town of Kewanee, celebrating hometown talent and dedication. Courtney Conley has been honored as a Senior Master Technician, a significant achievement reflecting years of commitment and expertise. Longtime employee Wayne received a special award as he approached retirement, marking the end of his distinguished tenure with the company. These accolades highlight the value Ford places on its employees, especially in tight-knit communities. Residents express a sense of pride and gratitude, feeling fortunate to see local professionals acknowledged on a larger stage for their hard work and loyalty.
Popular Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
What Are We Even Doing? with Kyle MacLachlan
Join award-winning actor and social media madman Kyle MacLachlan on “What Are We Even Doing,” where he sits down with Millennial and Gen Z actors, musicians, artists, and content creators to share stories about the entertainment industry past, present, and future. Kyle and his guests will talk shop, compare notes on life, and generally be weird together. In a good way. Their conversations will resonate with listeners of any age whose interests lie in television & film, music, art, or pop culture.