Legends of the Lock Industry: Jake Matteson

July 1, 2024

Jake Matteson, Locks and Unlocks

Jake Matteson, the owner of Locks and Unlocks, exemplifies the essence of dedication and excellence in the locksmithing industry. Jake's unwavering commitment to his craft and comamunity distinguishes him as a deserving nominee for Locksmith Ledger’s 2024 Gale Johnson Legends of the Lock Industry Awards. 

Jake's journey in locksmithing is guided by his deeply rooted values of compassion, integrity, and service. A devout Christian, Jake approaches every aspect of his business with a profound sense of purpose, viewing his work as an opportunity to positively impact the lives of others. His genuine care for people transcends mere transactions, as he seeks to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct in all his endeavors.

Through Locks and Unlocks, Jake embodies the motto, We are not in the business of locksmithing but the business of helping people. We just happen to know about locks, keys, and safes, striving to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those he serves. Moreover, Jake's commitment extends beyond the confines of his business as he endeavors to educate the community about the breadth of services locksmiths can provide. Recognizing that locksmithing is often an overlooked trade, Jake actively engages in outreach efforts to raise awareness about the myriad solutions locksmiths offer. Through Locks and Unlocks, he seeks to demystify common misconceptions, such as the belief that one must visit a dealership for a new car key or a hardware store for a replacement lock. Instead, Jake emphasizes the convenience and cost-effectiveness of locksmith services, such as key rekeying, which not only enhances security but also eliminates the need for multiple keys.

Furthermore, Jake advocates for collaboration between locksmiths and other businesses, fostering mutually beneficial partnerships that leverage each other's expertise. By working together, locksmiths can enhance the overall customer experience and provide comprehensive solutions that address a wide range of security needs. Through his tireless efforts to educate and inform, Jake empowers individuals and businesses to make informed decisions about their security needs, ensuring that they have access to the full spectrum of locksmithing services available. His dedication to promoting industry awareness and collaboration underscores his commitment to advancing the locksmithing profession and serving the community with integrity and excellence.

Matteson has spent more than 24 years in the security industry. His illustrious career trajectory showcases his unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation in locksmithing services. Jake's journey in the security industry commenced over two decades ago, where he diligently apprenticed under seasoned locksmiths, meticulously honing his skills and mastering the craft.

Jake actively engages with industry associations, including the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA) and the Safe & Vault Technicians Association (SAVTA), highlighting his fervent dedication to staying abreast of industry trends and best practices. Furthermore, Jake's proactive involvement extends to attending trade shows, seminars, and educational courses, where he continually expands his locksmithing knowledge base, embraces technological advancements, and networks with fellow professionals to share insights and expertise.

Throughout his illustrious career, Jake has achieved numerous milestones, including the expansion of Locks and Unlocks' service areas to encompass Sun Prairie, Stoughton, Watertown, and Madison.