Galen trained as a tech at San Diego City College and worked in the industry for 20 years before founding North Country in February 1993. He loves being involved in all aspects of running this independent auto repair shop. Four of Galen’s top five strengths involve relationship building, which is great for creating team synergy and providing our customers with the services they need to get their vehicles on the road again in beautiful and safe condition. Galen’s pride and joy is his favorite (and only) grandchild.

Little-known fact: Galen was the recipient of the first annual Emil Stanley Merit Award in 1990 for the highest test score in the nation. The scholarship is awarded annually to an individual who works in an Automotive Service Association (ASA) Collision Division member-business who displays a desire to improve their business skills through management education.

Susan has a background in administrative support in accounting, insurance, and higher education which fueled her passion for organizational leadership. She applies her strengths in the areas of marketing and strategic planning on behalf of North Country, encouraging the team to look for opportunities for improvements that will help both the business and everyone connected to it. Susan’s favorite pastimes are hanging out with family, walking, bicycling, and exploring places new and old.

Little-known fact: Susan went back to school after the kids were grown to complete a BA (2008) and an MA in Organizational Leadership (2013) at Bethel University.

Lou keeps the paperwork in order, the numbers crunched, and the front office running smoothly. She has a heart for helping others and is attentive to customer and staff needs. It’s no wonder that she holds everything together: she once worked for that famous company known for snapping building blocks together to build cool things. (Think begins with an “L” and ends with a “go”)! Lou has a green thumb when it comes to growing flowers, and she loves to spend time with her grandkids – even when they drive her slightly crazy.

Little-known fact: Lou is Galen’s little sister so she knows how to keep him in line…and vice versa!

Steve hails from North Dakota, where he got an early introduction to life in the industry at his father’s body shop and has worked in the auto industry his entire career. His resume includes combination body/paint technician, insurance company adjuster, and body shop estimator. Steve really understands the ins and outs of both the administrative and technical repair and refinish processes. He enjoys hunting, fishing, and coming across bears in the woods on his ATV.

Little-known fact: If you want to see Steve smile, just ask about the latest addition to his family. Hint: Steve’s newest title is Grandpa!

Mark has been with North Country since our doors opened. He is happy when painting vehicles and strives for perfection with each refinish job. Mark’s motto is “Do it right the first time,” and his commitment to production efficiencies is one reason why he makes a great shop supervisor. He assures that our customers get back on the road ASAP with their vehicle restored to pre-accident condition – or better! Mark enjoys fishing with his family and home improvement projects.

Little-known fact: Mark followed in Galen’s footsteps as a painter AND as the father of awesome twins.

Chad has been around the block a time or two with 30+ years’ experience, including early years in his dad’s shop. He trained at South Central Technical College and is I-CAR certified. Chad is experienced in refinishing as well as collision repair and street rods. He also tends toward perfectionism with an eye for details. Chad enjoys drag racing and watching his kids play ball.

Little-known fact: Chad has the strength of Ideation and is always coming up with new ways of doing things. He also likes to get creative with interior design projects, as evidenced at North Country with our tin, wood trim and other projects.