RealRides Volume 8: Jason Jones

Jason Jones is a veteran auto enthusiast with over 30 years in the industry. Jason has a long history in the automotive aftermarket space, from installing aftermarket audio equipment to his current role in RealTruck’s merchandising department. 

What or Who Sparked Your Automotive Passion? 

“I've been in the automotive accessory industry for over 30 years, but my passion started long before that. As a kid, I was always drawing vehicles, dreaming about how cool it would be to drive something I created. I was deep into the mini-truck and car audio scene before the days of the internet—magazines were my gateway into that world.

Once I started driving, I jumped right into installing stereos and systems. After graduating, I got my first job at a shop, and that opened my eyes to what was truly possible in this industry. Shoutout to Auto Images in Jackson, MI—where I learned how to be a true one-stop shop. We didn’t just build show vehicles—we built rolling marketing tools, vehicles that turned heads and brought in business.

At Auto Images, I started with the basics but quickly grew into a leadership role. Over the 20+ years I spent there, I learned every side of the business—from installs to operations to the all-important customer experience. Working face-to-face with customers in a brick-and-mortar environment taught me that how people feel about your work is just as important as the work itself.”

What Led You to Your Current Role at RealTruck? 

“Eventually, I transitioned to RealTruck, starting in Installation Tech Support. Going from hands-on installs to walking customers through the process remotely was a big adjustment. But my background gave me a serious edge—most of the issues they ran into were ones I’d already solved myself. That experience helped me maintain one of the lowest return rates, because customers were actually able to install and enjoy their parts.

From there, I became Tech Supervisor. I loved that role because it gave me the opportunity to mentor others and share everything I’d learned. I’ve always believed in leading from the side—not from the front or the back. I’d never ask someone to do something I wouldn’t do myself, and I ran my team like we ran the shop—like family.

Now, I’ve moved into my current role in Merchandising, where I oversee how products are represented on our website. In a way, it brings everything full circle—from building vehicles and guiding customers, to shaping the entire online experience. It’s all about delivering the best possible experience for enthusiasts in our industry.”

Jason’s Jeep Gladiator