Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with K.C. Rutiaga, Owner of Fresno Neon Sign Co., Inc., located in Fresno, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Fresno Neon Sign Company is one of the oldest electric sign companies on the West Coast. Established in 1932, we continue to lead the sign industry in the Central Valley of California. With clients from across the state and recognizable projects dating back to the 1930s, they are truly a part of valley history.
While neon is no longer a primary part of Fresno Neon’s everyday business, this type of lighted sign still delights both industry leaders and customers alike. Fresno Neon Sign Company manufactures everything from small lighted storefront letters to school marquees to large freeway hi-rise signs. We are also the most experienced electronic message board installer and service shop in the Valley. With projects throughout the Valley and the Bay Area, more and more of our very versatile signs are being sold by Fresno Neon than ever before.
With such a rich history and extensive experience, it’s easy to see why Fresno Neon, after 90 years, remains a Valley leader in the sign business.
Tell us about yourself
I worked for my dad back in high school, learning the ins and outs of the sign business. I left Fresno to attend law school and worked as a deputy district attorney for some time, but I returned to the business in 2005. In 2014, my father retired, and I took over the company and have been here ever since. I am motivated primarily by our wonderfully talented staff members, who make the company what it is. In such a specialized trade, we would be nothing without their knowledge and dedication. We are truly a family at Fresno Neon Sign Company.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment has been the growth that we have experienced in recent years. For such a small company, we have managed to turn out more projects than ever before, and we are proud of every one of them. I love to drive around town and see our custom work lighting up the Valley.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
For our industry, the hardest thing has been finding and training qualified sign tradesmen. Most of us have been here for 20+ years, and we wish there were more young people interested in the trades.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Treat your employees like family.
- Be willing to think outside of the box and try new things, even when it is scary.
- Lead your customers to the right decision; that is our job!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://fresnoneon.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fresno_neon/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.