Episode 42 - "From Truck Bodies To The Tarmac" Inside Wilcox GSE with David Dick

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A single email from an airplane window changed everything. We sit down with David Dick of Wilcox GSE to unpack how a Canadian truck body manufacturer spotted an opening in aviation, listened closely to operators, and built a fast-growing line of non-powered equipment and purpose-built trucks that stand up to ramp reality.

David walks us through the early days—cleaning shop floors, studying criminology, running production—and the moment he realized a baggage cart is, at its core, a box they already knew how to build exceptionally well. From there, the brand evolved from Wilcox Bodies to Wilcox GSE, sharpening focus on dollies, baggage carts, maintenance stands, and bobtails. We dig into chassis choices (Ford and Ram), why a 550 variant is coming, and how they approached complex steps like shortening frames and balancing loads. Along the way, he shares how a rubber isolator and smarter modularity cut axle replacement from eight hours to 20 minutes, a practical win for maintenance teams under pressure.

We also get candid about supply chains and strategy. While many pulled back during COVID, Wilcox stocked inventory and posted it online, meeting urgent demand when others couldn’t. That move introduced them to airlines and ground handlers across the U.S., while partnerships expanded service coverage to keep downtime low. And yes, we talk about marketing: David’s unedited LinkedIn walkarounds became a signature—proof that clear demos and honest talk beat polish. The conversation winds through first-time hangar awe, bringing family airside, and the community feel of GHI golf, reminding us why quality gear and dependable support keep operations—and people—moving.

If you care about stronger dollies, smarter carts, and bobtails built for real work, this one’s for you. Listen now, subscribe for more ground support stories and strategies, and leave a quick review to help fellow GSE pros find the show.

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