40 Stories: Johnathan Garlow of Ford Office Technologies

Johnathan Garlow, President of Ford Office Technologies, sat down to discuss the company’s growth, future plans, and the critical role they play in keeping businesses running smoothly. Ford Office Technologies started as a copier and print solutions provider but has evolved into a comprehensive IT and managed network services company, boasting over 4,200 clients across the region.

With its deep roots as a copier service provider, Ford expanded its offerings in response to client needs. Garlow noted, "We were the guys getting blamed when the printers didn’t work, often because of network issues. So, we turned that expertise into a business." Today, managed IT services make up a growing portion of Ford's operations, helping clients tackle cybersecurity challenges while ensuring their networks run efficiently.

Garlow said Ford’s customer-first approach is key to their success. As Garlow emphasized, they don’t want their clients caught in the middle of tech issues: "It’s our problem to fix, and we make it right."

Ford’s growth isn't just about expanding services—it’s also about vision. The company operates under the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), which provides a clear roadmap for the future. "We’ve set a 10-year goal to serve 10,000 clients," Garlow said. "We break that down into three-year and one-year plans to keep us on track."

As Pittsburgh’s tech scene continues to thrive, Ford Office Technologies is positioned to support not only traditional office needs but also cutting-edge IT solutions. The company’s involvement with the Pittsburgh Technology Council reflects their commitment to staying ahead of industry trends and connecting with the region’s vibrant tech community.

Looking ahead to 2025, Ford’s focus remains on growth—both in their customer base and their service offerings. With a keen eye on industry trends and a commitment to delivering top-tier service, Jonathan Garlow and his team are well on their way to achieving their ambitious goals.