Q1) To start off why don’t you tell me a little about yourself Scott?
A1) I was originally a science major in college, and soon converted to an agriculture and economics major which would help me on later down the road. And then at 39 years old i decided to start my own business and buy my first saw mill.
Q2) What sparked the idea of starting your own business?
A2) Well it all started when i was looking for a way to earn a little extra money somehow, but i was kinda thrust into the business when I was laid off from my job at U.S. Airlines.
Q3) In what ways did you finance this new business that you were planning on starting?
A3) I had a little money saved up in a bank account, but most of my money came from bank loans.
Q4) In what ways did you prepare for this new business you were about to start?
A4) I really had no help when i started out because this was all very new to me. So the most i had to go on was calling around to other saw mill owners and just gathering research as much as i possibly could.
Q5) What was the hardest thing to deal with on a day to day basis in your business?
A5) Some trials that i have to overcome daily is the fact that i have to rely on other people daily, and sometimes they can be very unpredictable. Whether it is for work, labor, or an order that needs to be picked up or filled. Another difficulty i have to deal with is the economy being so bad, and the amount of debt I am in.
Q6) Who are your main competitors?
A6) My Competitors are all the main suppliers such as Home Depot., Lowes, or Tractor Supply Company.
Q7) All in all are you happy with the way your business has grown and progressed over the years?
A7) Yes i am very pleased with how my business has grown and progressed, and am looking forward to expanding with the new shaving mill that i just purchased making shavings for horse pins and stables.
Q8) what advice would you give to a young entrepreneur like myself?
A8) Well i would say never think small because the possibilities are endless when starting your own business. And also when starting from scratch start small and learn your trade, while also watching your debt level, don’t let it get too high.
