Much of what Fyda Freightliner’s second-generation CEO, Tim Fyda, brings to the helm of the company was forged high above the earth, in the cockpit of an F-15 fighter jet. As a former U.S. Air Force pilot, Tim learned to make split-second decisions under pressure, prioritize in rapidly changing environments, and lead with a steady hand—all qualities that have served him well in guiding Fyda Freightliner through decades of growth and transformation.

Seventy years ago, this family business began as a modest dealership in Youngstown, Ohio. Today, Fyda Freightliner is a thriving regional powerhouse with eight locations, over 600 employees, and a reputation for excellence that spans generations. Under Tim’s leadership, the company has navigated the shifting landscapes of the trucking industry with the same precision and focus that once guided him through the skies.

As Fyda Freightliner marks its 70th anniversary, the story is not just about trucks and milestones; it’s about the people, values, and vision that have powered its journey forward.

A Legacy Rooted in Bold Beginnings

Fyda Freightliner’s story began in 1954 when Tim’s father, Walter F. Fyda, made the strategic decision to become the first Freightliner truck dealer east of the Mississippi River. At the time, Freightliner was a small company, but that decision proved transformative. “Today, Freightliner has a commanding 40% market share in the U.S. and North America,” Tim shares. “That early choice shaped our legacy and continues to benefit us.”

The business grew steadily, with key milestones marking each decade. In 1985, Tim’s brother Bob acquired the Columbus dealership, now the company’s largest location. Tim would join the company two years later in ‘87. The turn of the millennium saw further expansion with the launch of Highway Commercial Services, Fyda Freightliner’s in-house financing arm, and the acquisition of a dealership in Cincinnati.

In 2018, the company diversified its offerings with an Isuzu franchise, adding a complementary product line that allowed them to serve new market segments in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. By 2019, Fyda Freightliner achieved Daimler Truck North America’s Elite Certification across all its locations—a testament to the company’s dedication to top-tier service and customer satisfaction. “It elevated us to a higher tier of service within the Daimler network,” Tim explains.

A defining moment in recent years has been the involvement of the third generation—Tim’s sons Neil, Matt, and Brian, as well as his nephew Walter. “Seeing them passionate about the business is one of my greatest joys,” Tim says. “Their presence ensures that our company will remain family-owned and driven by our shared values.”

This seamless generational transition reflects the company’s commitment to stability, continuity, and a long-term vision for growth.

Guided by Roosevelt’s Wisdom

When asked about the foundation of Fyda Freightliner’s enduring success, Tim Fyda draws upon a famous quote by President Theodore Roosevelt: “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” For Tim, this philosophy is more than a mantra—it’s a guiding principle that underscores how the company approaches its relationships with both employees and customers.

“This quote resonates deeply with how we operate as a family business,” Tim explains. “Whether it’s addressing the concerns of an employee or ensuring a customer has the best experience, it all starts with showing that you care.”

This approach shapes Fyda Freightliner’s workplace culture, where the smallest concerns are treated with the same importance as the largest issues. Employees are encouraged to bring forward ideas or challenges, knowing that their voices will be heard. For customers, the philosophy manifests in the company’s unwavering focus on quality service and timely support. “If something matters to someone, it matters to us,” Tim emphasizes. “That’s the standard we hold ourselves to.”

The impact of Roosevelt’s wisdom is evident in Fyda Freightliner’s ability to foster trust and loyalty among its employees and customers. It’s a philosophy that not only strengthens the company’s internal dynamics but also ensures its longevity in a competitive industry.

The Three P's: People, Product, and Processes

At the heart of Fyda Freightliner’s success is a leadership philosophy built around people, product, and processes. “If one of these areas falters, it pulls the others down,” Tim explains. “They are the foundation of everything we do.”

The company invests heavily in its people, offering robust training programs and career development opportunities. A notable initiative is the Bob Fyda Scholarship Fund, named in honor of Tim’s late brother, which supports aspiring technicians through partnerships with community colleges and Daimler Truck North America. This investment addresses an industry-wide technician shortage while ensuring Fyda Freightliner continues to attract and retain top talent.

Product quality is equally essential. Representing Freightliner, Western Star, Isuzu, Battle Motors and Kalmar Ottawa, Fyda Freightliner has built its reputation on providing reliable, innovative vehicles that meet the needs of a diverse customer base. “There’s no substitute for quality,” Tim says. “In our case, we’re fortunate to represent brands that deliver exceptional products.” The company’s processes are equally rigorous, with a focus on efficiency and customer satisfaction. Continuous improvement coordinators at each location work to optimize operations, ensuring that every aspect of the business—from facilities to parts delivery—is aligned with customer needs.

“We take pride in keeping our customers’ trucks running,” Tim says. “Time is money for them, and if we can minimize downtime, we’ve done our job.”

Embracing Technology and Safety

The trucking industry is undergoing rapid transformation, and Fyda Freightliner is at the forefront of this change. The company has embraced advancements in battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) and is exploring the potential of hydrogen-powered propulsion systems. 

BEVs are already part of Fyda Freightliner’s portfolio, and the company has certified several locations to service these vehicles. While hydrogen-powered trucks remain in development, Tim is optimistic about their potential to revolutionize long-haul transportation. “Hydrogen fuel cells could be the future for long-haul trucking in North America,” he notes.

Safety systems are another area of innovation, with features that pave the way for autonomous trucks. “The pace of technological advancement is unprecedented,” Tim observes. “We’re preparing for a future where autonomous vehicles are part of everyday operations.”

These advancements are not just about meeting market demands; they reflect Fyda Freightliner’s broader commitment to quality  and innovation, ensuring the company remains competitive in an evolving industry.

Leadership Lessons From the Skies

Tim’s approach to leadership is deeply influenced by his time in the U.S. Air Force. “The military is a phenomenal leadership laboratory,” he explains. “You learn to prioritize, make decisions under pressure, and lead effectively.”

These skills have served Tim well in guiding Fyda Freightliner through decades of growth and change. His son Matt, a former Apache helicopter pilot in the U.S. Army, has also brought a unique perspective to the family business. “It’s inspiring to see the next generation bring their own strengths to the table,” Tim says.

The lessons learned in the skies—adaptability, focus, and resilience—are evident in Fyda Freightliner’s approach to challenges and opportunities. Whether navigating market shifts or implementing new technologies, the company’s leadership remains steady and strategic.

Strategic Growth Through Acquisitions

Over the years, Fyda Freightliner has expanded not only organically but also through strategic acquisitions. From Columbus and Cincinnati to Buckeye Western Star and Yard Trucks of Ohio, each addition has strengthened the company’s footprint.

“Merging cultures is the greatest challenge of acquisitions,” Tim notes. “It’s not about one culture being better than another—it’s about finding alignment and ensuring everyone is working toward the same goals. Patience and understanding are key.”

This thoughtful approach has enabled Fyda Freightliner to maintain its family-oriented ethos while embracing opportunities for growth. With additional acquisitions on the horizon, the company is poised to expand its footprint while staying true to its core values.

Community Engagement: Supporting the Bright Minds of Tomorrow

Fyda Freightliner’s commitment to community is a cornerstone of its identity. The company supports nonprofits, funds scholarships, and participates in workforce development initiatives. Tim himself has served on several nonprofit boards, while his son Brian is an active member of the local Chamber of Commerce.

The company’s training programs not only address the technician shortage but also create opportunities for young professionals to build meaningful careers. “We believe in giving back to the communities that have supported us for 70 years,” Tim says. “It’s about creating opportunities and building a better future.”

Fyda Freightliner’s community engagement reflects its belief in the power of collective growth. By investing in people and organizations, the company strengthens the fabric of the communities it serves.

Humble and Hungry: A Vision for the Future

As Fyda Freightliner looks to the future, Tim emphasizes the importance of staying “humble and hungry.” This philosophy drives the company’s continuous improvement culture and its pursuit of growth opportunities, both in existing markets and new ventures. The company’s finance arm, Highway Commercial Services, is one such initiative, offering customers a seamless financing solution alongside vehicle sales and services.

“We’ll continue to grow responsibly, always with an eye on delivering value to our customers and communities,” Tim affirms. “It’s about balancing tradition with innovation, staying true to our roots while embracing what’s next.”

With an eye on expansion, Fyda Freightliner plans to explore new regions and services while maintaining its commitment to sustainability and innovation. The company’s focus on people, product, and processes ensures that it is well-positioned to navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead.

A Legacy of Excellence

Fyda Freightliner’s 70-year journey is a testament to the power of family, vision, and resilience. From its humble beginnings to its position as a leader in the trucking industry, the company has remained steadfast in its commitment to people, quality, and community.

“We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished, but we’re even more excited about what’s ahead,” Tim concludes. “Fyda Freightliner is more than a business—it’s a family. And we’re just getting started.”

With a strong foundation and a clear vision for the future, Fyda Freightliner is poised to continue driving success for generations to come.