Our Staff

Jim Zieglowsky

Co-Owner

I’m Jim Zieglowsky, proud owner of Washington Auto Center, husband of 36+ years, father of two amazing daughters, and grandpa to three wonderful grandchildren—all of whom light up my world. I serve as an elder at City Point Church and am continually inspired by the life-changing work of Jesus Christ in our community. Faith plays a central role in my life, both personally and professionally. After earning a BA from the University of Sioux Falls, I’ve been fortunate to own and operate multiple businesses over the years. Most of my career was spent in the heavy construction industry, but today I’m truly enjoying the new chapter of owning an automotive repair business. Outside of work, I’m passionate about 5 F’s: Faith, Family, Friends, Fishing, and Football (hopefully in that order). I also like to mix in a little pickleball when I can. My wife and I love to travel and often find ourselves enjoying the peaceful charm of Branson, Missouri. As owner of Washington Auto Center, my goal is simple—to create a place where people are treated with respect, kindness, and cared for, just like family.

Denise Zieglowsky

Co-owner/Bookkeeper

(319) 727-1218
[email protected]

Denise Zieglowsky is the Co-Owner, Office Manager, and Bookkeeper at Washington Auto Center, bringing over 40 years of accounting experience to the role. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Sioux Falls and has built a reputation for precision, dedication, and trustworthy financial management. Outside of work, Denise is a proud mother of two daughters and a grandmother to three. She enjoys photography, spending time outdoors, playing pickleball, and, most of all, being with her family. Grounded in faith and community, she volunteers her time at City Point Church and values the strong connections she shares with her faith, family, and friends.

Kevin Brame

General Manager

(319) 727-1218
[email protected]

Kevin, our General Manager, brings over 25 years of automotive expertise, rooted in a rich family legacy. Raised in his grandfather’s repair shop, now run by his father, Kevin’s passion for vehicles took shape early. A graduate of Universal Technical Institute and an ASE certified specialist, has excelled in diverse settings, from small two-bay shops to a 46-bay heavy truck dealership, mastering repair, management, and client relations. Kevin was instrumental in building our business from the ground up, driving its success with strategic leadership and a commitment to quality. His vision fosters a culture of trust and excellence. A proud father of three daughters, Kevin enjoys family outings, hunting, and fishing, activities that reflect his disciplined yet approachable leadership style.

Bre Barnett

Service Writer

(319) 727-1218
[email protected]

Bre, our Parts Specialist and Service Advisor, brings 3.5 years of automotive expertise, paired with a strong foundation in customer service. Starting as a high school waitress at a local restaurant, she sharpened her people skills across various industries before joining our team. Bre excels at sourcing parts and guiding clients with clarity and warmth, ensuring seamless service experiences. Her ability to connect and problem-solve makes her a vital asset. Outside the shop, Bre is passionate about family and friends, cherishing time with her horses, whether barrel racing or joyriding. A rodeo enthusiast, she also loves riding four-wheelers and admiring classic square-body GM pick-ups, drawn to their timeless design. Bre’s energy and dedication shine in both her work and her vibrant rural lifestyle.

Jeremy Neef

Automotive Technician/Diesel Technician

(319) 727-1218
[email protected]

Jeremy brings over 20 years of hands-on expertise to his role as an Automotive Specialist, tackling everything from routine maintenance to complex repairs across a wide range of makes and models. A graduate of Indian Hill Auto Tech School, he honed his skills early on, including a stint at a Ford factory dealership where he mastered the intricacies of automotive systems. Jeremy’s deep knowledge and problem-solving prowess make him a trusted go-to for any vehicle challenge. Beyond the garage, Jeremy thrives outdoors. Living on a farm, he’s always eager to lend a hand during harvest season. Whether he’s fishing, hunting, or foraging for mushrooms, you’ll find him soaking up nature’s best. Weekends often mean camping trips with family and friends, a tradition he cherishes. Happily married, Jeremy is a proud father to one daughter and an even prouder grandfather to his grandchild, who keeps him young at heart.

Matt Milewski

Automotive Technician/Diesel Technician

(319) 727-1218
[email protected]

Matt, an Automotive Specialist with eight years of experience, has been a key part of our shop since its opening. Committed to growth, he is pursuing his apprenticeship certification to enhance his repair expertise. Matt skillfully handles a diverse range of vehicles—cars, SUVs, light and heavy-duty trucks, trailers, and school buses—ensuring each operates safely and efficiently through precise repairs. His thoroughness and teamwork earn him trust from colleagues and clients alike. A dedicated husband and father of two daughters, Matt enjoys fishing in local rivers, camping with family, and playing golf. His focus shines through, whether troubleshooting a trailer or enjoying a weekend outdoors.

Clint Albert

Automotive Technician/Diesel Technician

(319) 727-1218
[email protected]

Clint is a seasoned automotive specialist with an impressive 22 years of experience under his belt, specializing in everything from routine maintenance to complex engine repairs. His passion for cars and engines sparked in childhood, growing up surrounded by the hum of motors and the thrill of mechanics, which led him to pursue a career where he could turn his love into expertise. Factory dealer-trained, Clint brings a high level of precision and professionalism to his craft, ensuring every vehicle he works on runs at its peak performance. Beyond the garage, he’s an enthusiast of RC nitro trucks, often spending weekends fine-tuning his models or racing them with fellow hobbyists. Clint also enjoys heading out to the range for some target shooting with friends, a hobby that keeps him sharp and connected. Above all, he’s a dedicated family man, cherishing time spent with his young son, whom he’s raising with the same curiosity and hands-on spirit that shaped his own life.

Zach Kaufman

Lube Technician

(319) 727-1218
[email protected]

Zach, our Automotive Intern, is a motivated student set to graduate from Southeastern Community College in May 2025, eager to build a career in the automotive industry. With two years of hands-on experience, he approaches repairs and maintenance with a keen interest, steadily refining his skills under our team’s mentorship. Zach’s curiosity and strong work ethic position him as a promising contributor, always ready to tackle new challenges in the shop. Outside of work, he enjoys restoring antique lawnmowers, captivated by their mechanical charm. A farm enthusiast, Zach, helps with a wide variety of tasks on the farm and looks forward to the annual Old Threshers event, where he spends a week enjoying vintage machinery and community traditions.

We are a Digital Shop

The Washington Auto Center technicians use the latest technology to not only tell you if there are any issues with your vehicle, but show you. If we uncover an issue the photo will be e-mailed to you for your records. At the end of every visit you will receive a detailed report regarding the general health of your vehicle. Our #1 goal is to keep you safe on the road.

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