For the 10th consecutive year (2016–2025), Bill Colwell Ford in Hudson has been voted the Cedar Valley’s No. 1 overall dealership. They’re also honored to be named “Best of the Best” in Automotive Customer Service, Oil Change, Service, and Detailing — and congratulate Dakota Even and Jordan Myers on being voted Favorite Salespeople. Thank you to our loyal customers and community for your support!
This 10-year streak reflects not only their commitment to customer service and community involvement but also the dedication of their employees. “It’s because of the employees commitment to top-notch service, product knowledge, and adapting to our industry that we’ve built such loyal customers,” said Bill Colwell.
Product knowledge and training is always at the forefront of the dealership. This past year Bill Colwell Ford was very proud to recognize Devin Schafer on achieving Senior Master Technician status through Ford. This prestigious designation is reserved for technicians who have gone to the greatest lengths of the Ford Training Curriculum. Senior Master Technician requires a 5-year tenure and extensive classroom and online training. Devin is now one of only four Senior Master Technicians to have worked at Bill Colwell Ford in its 41 years.
Bill Colwell Ford’s 75 employees stay current on new vehicles and technology to best answer customer questions and service needs. They also educate customers through hundreds of YouTube videos and active social media channels that highlight vehicle features, answer common maintenance questions, and celebrate employees and community events.
“Vehicles are the second biggest purchase a consumer makes and so there are bound to be questions whether its five minutes or five years after their purchase. And the best way to always be accessible is through our website and social media channels. It’s also the best way to get to know us as a company. We cover topics we get asked questions on a regular basis, but we also have fun with it,” commented Blake Cowell, General Manager of Bill Colwell Ford.
The family-owned organization has been busy. This year, Blake Colwell purchased Mason City Ford Lincoln and Mason City Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, expanding the family business into north Iowa and southern Minnesota under the new name Colwell Motors of Mason City.
“We’re incredibly thankful for the continued support of our customers, team, and the Cedar Valley community, said Blake Colwell. Expanding into Mason City allows us to carry those same values—trust, service, and connections into new communities across north Iowa and southern Minnesota. I’m excited to lead this next chapter for our family business and to deliver the exceptional experience customers expect from the Colwell name.”
No matter what goes on day to day at the dealership, Bill Colwell Ford still makes it a priority to give back to the community that has given so much to them. This year they hosted events like the annual “Fill-a-50” item drive, which raised over $1,000 for Friends of the Family, and the 14th annual Drive 4 UR Community, which has raised over $77,000 for the Hudson Athletic Boosters since 2009.
Bill Colwell Ford has also been very involved with the new Career and Technical Education (CTE) Center, which is now open in the Hudson Community School District. The facility is a major upgrade from the district’s previous space. Bill Colwell Ford contributed over $30,000 in professional-grade automotive tools and equipment to the new Hudson CTE Center to ensure students can train on industry-standard technology.
All this community involvement has not gone unnoticed by the Cedar Valley. In 2025 Bill Colwell Ford was named the Business Partner of the Year at the 2025 Cedar Valley Nonprofit Awards Luncheon. This recognition celebrates the incredible partnerships between local businesses and nonprofit organizations working together to strengthen our community. Bill Colwell Ford is the first-ever automotive dealership to receive this award.
“Being able to give back to those who have given us a chance to earn their business is what keep our business going. The Cedar Valley is a great community and we’re happy to be a part of it,” said Bill Colwell.
Whether you’re shopping for a new or pre-owned vehicle or need service on your current one, Bill Colwell Ford is here to help. Visit www.billcolwellford.com, call, or stop by the dealership anytime — even just to say hi and enjoy a cup of coffee.