Great Lakes Commercial Finance is proud to celebrate Women’s History Month by spotlighting our valued borrower, Advantage Mechanical Refrigeration (AMR), and owner Jodi Van Haren. Through the SBA 504 Loan Program, GLCF provided financing that enabled AMR to purchase land and complete a building renovation. The structure offered a lower down payment and a long term fixed interest rate, which preserved working capital, stabilized payments, and supported AMR’s growth plans during a pivotal expansion. Our team worked closely with AMR from application to closing, providing clear guidance and efficient communication so the project could move forward on time and with confidence. We are proud to do business with AMR and to support their continued success.
Jodi Van Haren’s journey into the mechanical trades began shortly after high school, when a job with a small mechanical contractor introduced her to an industry that would eventually become her life’s work. At just 22 years old, she started her first business, discovering early the drive and determination that would guide her into entrepreneurship. In 2001, at age 29, she and her business partner launched Advantage Mechanical Refrigeration (AMR) with only $1,000, a makeshift office in their home and garage, and an unwavering willingness to work hard and learn fast. Ten years later, Jodi purchased her partner’s share of the company and continued building AMR into what it is today: a thriving team of 60 people serving customers across two states.
From day one, the values behind AMR were intentionally defined. “Own It,” “Display Urgency,” and “Do the Right Thing” are more than phrases on a wall – they reflect Jodi’s belief that culture is built through consistent actions, honesty, and leadership grounded in integrity. She sees AMR as a people-centered company, one that serves not just mechanical systems, but the individuals who depend on them. Her leadership has been shaped by faith, resilience, and the humility that comes from growing something from almost nothing. The early challenges taught her the value of perseverance, surrounding herself with the right people, and developing strong systems that empower her team to thrive.
As a woman building a career and a business in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Jodi faced moments where she had to prove herself, often balancing steep learning curves with the pressure of doing too much on her own. Over time, she discovered that growth happens when you trust others, build strong teams, and stay grounded in purpose. Stress and self-doubt were challenges too, but ones she learned to navigate with perspective. Today, she encourages women entering the trades to know there is absolutely a place for them, reminding them that they do not need a perfect path to build something meaningful. Confidence, hard work, and a willingness to learn can open countless doors in an industry full of opportunity.
A major milestone in AMR’s evolution came when the company purchased its first commercial property through the SBA 504 Loan Program with the support of Great Lakes Commercial Finance (GLCF). For Jodi, the experience working with GLCF was exceptional. Senior Loan Officer Bradd Pierce and Closing Coordinator Abbey Byrne guided her through each step, providing clarity, confidence, and steady communication during a process filled with firsts. The SBA program’s lower down payment and long-term fixed rates made the expansion attainable, allowing AMR to invest in the future without constraining its cash flow. Jodi reflects on the experience with gratitude, noting how the GLCF team helped move the project forward and ensure a smooth completion.
Looking ahead, Jodi hopes her story inspires women to step boldly into technical and leadership roles within the trades. She wants them to see that purpose comes from using their strengths, that meaningful work rarely follows a perfect path, and that leadership is ultimately about investing in people. Her legacy, she hopes, is one of opening doors, building confidence, and encouraging others to pursue opportunities in an industry that truly needs great people.
