Area Center: Greenville Title: Business Consultant Start Date: September 1, 2015

QUESTION: What was your career track prior to joining the SC SBDC network? ANSWER: I joined the South Carolina Small Business Development Centers Network (SBDC) as a  Certified Business Advisor (CBA) from Dayton, Ohio with over fifteen years of consulting experience. I hold a B.S. degree in Organizational Leadership and currently run my own internet based company. I have been an entrepreneur for over 20 years in sales, business services and ecommerce. I am a U.S. Air Force veteran and was stationed at Shaw Air Force Base in Sumter, SC in the late ‘80s.

My most recent position before moving to South Carolina in August, 2015 was SBDC Regional Director at Wright State University. My center was responsible for all military veteran Boots to Business training within the state of Ohio.

QUESTION: What motivated you to become an SC SBDC consultant? ANSWER: The SBDC was my best client. I saw how I could have a greater impact with more flexibility within the small business community by joining the organization rather than having them as a customer.

QUESTION: What is the best piece of advice you would offer aspiring business owners? ANSWER: Don't spend a dime on marketing that you can't track.

QUESTION: Do you have a particular area of interest/expertise that you offer clients? ANSWER: All things internet, marketing and business planning. As a past scheduler/planner in the military I have developed an ability to see the big picture and pull it together in actionable steps.

QUESTION: Since becoming an SC SBDC consultant, what is your greatest accomplishment? ANSWER: It hasn’t happened yet.

QUESTION: Why is the SBDC an important resource for small business owners in South Carolina? ANSWER: We are their best, first phone call. We are seasoned, talented entrepreneurs with connections to valuable resources and it doesn't cost a thing to work with us.

QUESTION: What is your favorite part about working for the SC SBDC? ANSWER: Seeing a client’s dream become reality.

QUESTION: What quote best expresses your philosophy toward work/life? ANSWER: Don't be afraid to try something new. Remember, experts built the Titanic. A novice built the Ark.

QUESTION: What is your approach toward client counseling? ANSWER: Simple, listen. Then listen some more. Only then can you give sound advice.

QUESTION: What honors/awards have you won while serving as an SBDC consultant? ANSWER: SC SBDC Leadership Award, the Small Business Administration’s SBDC Excellence and Innovation Award, Ohio SBDC Peer Recognition Award for Mentorship and the Ohio SBDC State Star Award for top business counselor.