As C&W celebrates 65 years of service, we recognize the women and men who have shaped our history – and have helped us successfully serve our wonderful customers. Mary Halldorson is one of those, joining C&W in 1990.
Mary Halldorson is not your typical finance manager. She has a story that could inspire anyone who has faced adversity in their life. Mary was born in Long Beach, California and moved to Bellflower, California with her pet goat. Unfortunately, her mother contracted tuberculosis and died when Mary was only three years old.
After her mother’s death, Mary was raised by her grandparents in Chico, California. Her grandfather passed away when she was only seven years old, and she became the oldest of seven children. She learned early on how to be self-sufficient and independent, traits that have served her well in both her personal and professional life.
Mary attended a Catholic school, where she was told by a nun in ninth grade that “We all have our crosses to bear.” This lesson stayed with Mary and helped shape her outlook on life. Her Grandmother also played a significant role in her upbringing, helping her develop her independent streak.
Mary’s journey to the appliance industry began when she worked at Halldorson Appliance Service, a business owned by members of her extended family. She was convinced to leave her job as a dental assistant and join the appliance industry in November of 1983.
Later on, Mary joined the leadership team of the National Association of Service Dealers, where she was one of the first women to serve as part of the organization. Her time there caught the attention of Wayne Thompson, co-founder of C&W Appliance, who was looking to hire someone to help him grow his appliance repair company in Texas.
It was a six-month process before Mary agreed to move to Texas and join the team at C&W Appliance Service. As a Chico native, Mary was hesitant to leave the Golden State for the Lone Star State. However, Wayne’s persistence paid off, and Mary rode with her son and cat from Chico to Dallas.
When Mary joined C&W Appliance Service, the company was much smaller than it is today, with only 12 employees. She did payroll and took the time to understand how the company worked. Over time, Mary earned the respect of the technicians, many of whom did not know she had been in the business for seven years.
Mary has been with C&W Appliance Service for over 30 years and has seen the company grow significantly during that time. When Mary joined, Technicians Randy Carter, Wade Mannon, Parts Manager Mr. Bob (LaPlante) and his son Philip worked in the business. Randy, Wade and Philip continue at C&W today. Philip recently celebrated his 40th anniversary at C&W.
While Mary has evolved the business over time, including transitioning payroll from pen and paper to the computer, she remains committed to ensuring the company’s exceptional customer service continues.
Mary’s story is one of perseverance, independence, and self-sufficiency. Her journey to the appliance industry and her time with C&W Appliance Service is a testament to her hard work and dedication. The entire C&W Team is grateful for Mary’s continued contributions to C&W, our team and our customers.
