Wingard Quality Supply, LLC
James Wingard
President & CEO
From day one, Wingard Quality Supply has committed its operations to exceeding the quality expectations of its customers and automotive industry standards. My father, Jesse Wingard, built this business from the ground up after spending more than four decades working in the automotive manufacturing industry.
After working for Ford Motor Company for more than a quarter century, he joined New United Motor Manufacturing, Inc. (NUMMI), where he served as vice president of plant operations until he retired in 2001. The next year he launched WQS, providing tire wheel assembly for NUMMI.
When I joined the company as vice president in 2008, I wanted to carry on my father’s legacy as a go-getter who was always looking for new ways to innovate. I brought to the table a layer of global management experience that my dad wasn’t able to provide, and I made the bold decision to move to the market where our largest customer was located, which is what led us to Chattanooga.
The spirit of taking risks and being innovative is a cornerstone of the foundation my father laid when he first started the company, and I strive to emulate that spirit in every decision I make. In order to take risks while at the same time creating sustainable success, you have to have careful strategic planning, a well-trained and informed team, and a willingness to adapt your business operations to meet the growing demands of your customers and the economy.
For 12 years, my father served as an active advisor and board member for WQS. With his guidance, we have been able to ensure that the values of this company will stand the test of time. As my four sons continue to come of age, I’m looking forward to hopefully introducing a third generation to the business, and I know they will carry a commitment to quality and spirit of innovation with them into the future.