“This can be done so much better,” was the constant thought in Mike Kerley’s head for years leading up to launching United Door and Dock. After a successful career with a former employer, where he rose from outside sales representative to general manager, Kerley identified inefficiencies and growth limitations in the industry.
Determined to make a difference, he founded United Door and Dock with his business partner. The company started modestly—Kerley’s first office was a folding table and chair in his garage—but it quickly gained momentum through strategic marketing, relentless determination and the adoption of cutting-edge technology.
Even during the uncertain early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, Kerley’s “whatever it takes” mentality drove success, said his colleagues. Established in 2020, United Door and Dock specializes in the service, maintenance, and installation of commercial doors, loading dock equipment, and crash-rated vehicle barricades.
Kerley’s leadership has been pivotal in revolutionizing the industry through innovative technology, customer-focused strategies and a workplace culture that prioritizes employee well-being.
“I have focused greatly on treating employees the way I would want to be treated,” said Kerley. “All the revenue, profits and accolades of the business are a byproduct of a healthy culture filled with happy, hard-working employees.”
With Kerley at the helm as president, the company has experienced an average annual revenue growth of nearly 50%, with projections to exceed $21 million in 2024. Key achievements include the launch of an in-house concrete repair division and recognition for excellence from numerous industry organizations, including the International Door Association.
Kerley has led his team to embrace innovative technology, operating as a near-paperless company and leveraging advanced AI solutions to improve efficiency and enhance the customer experience.
“I don’t rely on specific strategies to reignite my passion for the business; instead, I’ve always felt a deep motivation to create the most successful company possible,” he said. “When I see our employees genuinely happy, knowing they believe United Door and Dock is where they will build their careers, it reinforces my commitment to our mission.”
Looking ahead, Kerley envisions United Door and Dock becoming the clear leader in Chicagoland’s commercial door and dock industry, with plans to expand nationally in key sectors. He aims to grow the company’s new concrete repair division to account for 25% of total revenue and continue scaling crash-rated vehicle barricade installations across the Midwest and beyond.
“At United Door and Dock, we take pride in our ability to find effective solutions to our customers’ challenges,” said Kerley. “By sharing experiences, learning from our mistakes, and utilizing technology to conduct thorough research, we will continue to stay one step ahead of our competitors.”