3 Minutes
Transitioning from a stable career to an entirely new field is a daunting endeavor. Yet, Desiree Hill's journey from nursing to establishing a thriving auto repair business exemplifies the rewards of such bold decisions.
From Healthcare to Auto Care
Six years ago, Desiree Hill dedicated her days to caring for cancer patients in Georgia, earning approximately $40,000 annually. Despite her commitment, the long hours, emotional toll, and extensive daily commute left her unfulfilled. As a single mother, the demanding schedule also limited her time with her children.
Today, Hill owns Crown’s Corner Mechanic near her residence. Last year, the business reported a net income of $440,000, with monthly revenues now averaging around $70,000—double the previous year's average.
Starting from Scratch
In 2019, without prior experience in mechanics or entrepreneurship, Hill began learning about automobiles through YouTube tutorials and family support. Her ten-year-old daughter recently assembled an engine, and her son now serves as a mechanic in the U.S. Army.
Hill earned a medical assistant degree in 2011 from Florida Metropolitan University (later renamed Everest University). Over time, she advanced to specialized roles, including oncology. However, the high-pressure environment and constant exposure to critically ill patients led her to reconsider her career path.
First Steps into Auto Repair
Seeking additional income, Hill ventured into buying and refurbishing used vehicles. Her first purchase was a $1,200 truck, which she repaired for $60 and sold two days later for $4,000. Encouraged by this success, she continued acquiring and fixing cars, eventually deciding to leave nursing in January 2020 after 15 months of balancing both professions.
Within a year, Hill bought, repaired, and sold 38 vehicles, generating approximately $100,000 in income.
Establishing a Mobile Mechanic Service
In 2021, Hill launched a mobile mechanic service with minimal investment, acquiring essential tools, a website, advertising materials, and invoicing software. In the first six months, she earned $13,000, with her TikTok presence attracting more clients.
By spring 2022, increasing demand led her to rent a small space in a repair shop. However, the rapid growth soon necessitated a larger facility.
Securing Support and Expanding
While repairing an RV, the vehicle's owner, impressed by Hill's dedication, offered her a $10,000 interest-free loan to establish her own shop. Hill insisted on a 10% interest rate with a three-year repayment plan but managed to repay the loan in just 18 months.
In September 2023, she leased an 8,000-square-foot facility. By subleasing space to other automotive professionals, she offsets half of her $6,566 monthly rent.
Overcoming Challenges and Looking Ahead
Despite her success, Hill often faces skepticism due to her 5-foot stature. She notes, "I constantly have to prove myself. I need to impress them with my knowledge."
Hill anticipates her shop's revenue will reach $1 million this year, though this figure remains below the average for U.S. repair shops. She aspires to purchase her current workspace, requiring an estimated $4 million investment.
Currently, Hill focuses on expanding her client base through social media and aims to pursue an online mechanical engineering degree.
She asserts, "We won't stop. If you don't know us yet, you will soon."
Conclusion
Desiree Hill's remarkable transition from nursing to owning a successful auto repair business underscores the potential of embracing change and pursuing one's passions. Her story serves as an inspiration for those contemplating bold career shifts, demonstrating that with determination and adaptability, significant achievements are within reach.
Source: cnbc
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