Florida Commerce Secretary Visits Four Star Freightliner’s Midway, Florida Location
Four Star Freightliner in Midway, Florida had the honor of hosting a delegation touring Gadsden County, coordinated by the Gadsden County, FL Development Council (GCDC). FloridaCommerce, the state agency dedicated to strengthening Florida’s economy, workforce, and communities, selected up to three businesses for the tour, and we were proud to be one of them.
The group was enthusiastic to learn about Four Star’s history, our continued growth, and the instrumental role GCDC played in supporting our establishment in Gadsden County. They were eager to hear how our Midway location has expanded our ability to serve the transportation industry and contribute to the region’s economic development.
The distinguished delegation included:
J. Alex Kelly, Secretary of the Florida Department of Commerce
Melanie S. Griffin, Esq., Secretary of the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation
Representatives from the Gadsden County Administrator’s Office, City of Gretna, Big Bend Minority Chamber, CareerSource Capital Region, Opportunity Florida, and others.
During the visit, the group engaged with Four Star representatives, including our dealer principal Jerry Kocan, who fielded thoughtful questions about our operations. Our apprentice program sparked conversation, highlighting our commitment to workforce development and technical training.
Attendees enjoyed a guided tour of the facility led by Four Star Truck Account Manager and Continuous Improvement Coordinator Zack Howard, along with CFO Scott Coleson, Director of Aftermarket Development Mike Ellifritz, and Midway Parts Manager Jamie Hargrove. The tour began in our parts department and warehouse before moving through the service department where the hands-on work happens every day to keep customer vehicles on the road. Their interest was genuine, and their questions reflected real curiosity about the keys to Four Star’s success.
Four Star Freightliner officially transitioned from our former Capital Circle location in Tallahassee to Midway in late January 2018. At the grand opening, Jerry Kocan shared his vision for the move:
“We will be better able to support the transient customers by being easily accessible to Interstate 10 and the two largest truck stops in the area. Not only will customers have greater access and visibility, but there is much more space to support our customers’ needs for parts, sales and service.”
This relocation, and the growth that followed, was made possible through the collaboration of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, Gadsden County, and the Gadsden County Development Council. Their support has allowed Four Star Freightliner to make a significant and lasting investment in the City of Midway.
We are grateful to FloridaCommerce and GCDC for including us in this important tour and for recognizing the value Four Star brings to the transportation industry and the local community. We look forward to continued partnership and shared progress.
