The Small Business Development Center hosted by Western New Mexico University selected Mitchel’s Auto Service and Repair, LLC, in Deming as its 2018 Star Client.
Since opening his business, owner Mitchel Boomgaarn has used the advising services the WNMU Small Business Development Center provides to entrepreneurs in Grant, Luna, Hidalgo and Catron counties. He persevered in his endeavor as a small business owner even after getting severely burned in an accident just weeks after opening his shop.
“Mario LaFragola, my Small Business Development Center advisor, didn’t just sit me down and say ‘I will fix that for you.’ He walked me through everything so that I could understand it,” Boomgaarn said. “Now I have more insight into what’s going on, and I have a better chance for this business to succeed.”
Continuing to work with the WNMU Small Business Development Center, Boomgaarn’s business has expanded to include towing services, and plans are underway to open a second location.
“The obstacles Mitch has overcome would crush most small business persons. He is a true testament to the power of the entrepreneurial spirit,” said LaFragola, who has worked with Boomgaarn over the past two years. “I nominated him as our Star Client for his outstanding ability to rise against adversity.”
Boomgaarn will be recognized as the WNMU Small Business Development Center 2018 Star Client before the New Mexico Legislature in Santa Fe. He is set to be honored at a reception at La Fonda on the Plaza on Monday, February 4, then introduced on the House floor by Representative Candie Sweetser on Tuesday, February 5.