Autobiography

BY MARK

I have devoted twenty-five years to the automotive industry, honing my skills in a variety of roles, including frame machine specialization, painting, and bodywork, before embarking on my entrepreneurial journey. This diverse experience has been instrumental in developing my expertise in restoring vehicles to a state that often surpasses their original condition. My dedication to excellence is a cornerstone of my business, and it's the reason our clients remain loyal.

My journey into business ownership began in September 2011, following 17 years of service in other shops. I've always been passionate about this field, and I started with a modest 800-square-foot shop. During those early days, I worked solo, equipped with a Car-O-Liner frame machine, a 5 hp air compressor, and three different spray guns for clear coat, base coat, and primer. I purchased materials as needed rather than in bulk and created a small office space in a corner.

By 2013, I recognized the need for more space and expanded into an adjacent 900-square-foot unit. This expansion allowed for the addition of a crucial spray booth and more spray guns, each designated for specific colors. As business steadied, I began to stock more materials and forged stronger relationships with various insurance companies. This period marked a significant growth phase for my business.

The most transformative change came in the fall of 2016 when I expanded my business to include an additional 6,200 square feet. This space now houses an organized office, a client waiting room and restroom, a spray booth, a paint mixing room utilizing PPG paint, two frame machines (a Car-O-Liner Mark 5 and a Car-O-Liner Bench Rack with EVO 1), a Car-O-Tronic Vision measuring system, and various Pro Spot welding and dent pulling systems. We also added a polish station, wash and detail station, and hired certified technicians and an office assistant. Our partnership with Martin Auto Color for bulk material purchases has been crucial. We now cater to all insurance companies, including the newer ones.

This expansion has led to a tripling of our workload, and we've achieved I-CAR gold certification. My vision was to create a space that's not only appealing to clients and adjusters but also comfortable and well-organized, a stark contrast to the previous state of disrepair. Our growth from an 800 square foot start-up to a 15,000 square foot facility is a testament to our hard work and commitment.

This shop is a reflection of my identity, my artistic expression, and my aspirations. It embodies my passion and my drive to push boundaries. Looking forward, I am excited to continue this journey, expanding and evolving my business for many years to come.