With over 25 years of experience as a project manager in the construction industry and a family history of small business ownership, Gonnering had always thought she might some day run her own business.

“I’ve been around small businesses my entire life. So I knew quite a bit about running a business,” notes Gonnering. “The Small Biz class helped me to focus on my idea and how to develop it and all the components of the business plan: financials, marketing, having employees and setting up for taxes.”

UW-Parkside SBDC director Matt Wagner, a partner in the Wisconsin Entrepreneurs’ Network (WEN), was Gonnering’s counselor throughout the class. “He was very helpful and encouraging. My instructor Mary Jane Zvara was also fabulous in encouraging me to continue and to get over my fears,” says Gonnering, who continues to utilize the expertise of Wagner and other WEN partners, including staff at the Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corp.

“That is the part I really find is wonderful about that program. You go through it and you have a business plan. And then they are there if you have questions or run into a roadblock, anything that comes up.”

In an industry dominated by men, Gonnering found a niche as a woman-owned construction business. Gonnering markets her services to women and older people who might be reluctant to let strangers into their homes to do repairs. As a woman Gonnering understands those fears and is diligent about background checks and utilizing only highly qualified and trusted craftsmen, many whom she met during her years in the industry. And Gonnering personally oversees each job herself.

“I think customers do have a trust level that they will be taken care of, and I will make sure the job gets done,” says Gonnering.

HomeTown Pro handles repair and maintenance jobs large and small. Currently with one fulltime employee, Gonnering expects to hire additional employees as spring approaches and business picks up.

“I would like to hire more craftsmen, so if someone calls we can be there in a day or two to do what they need to be done, whether it’s fixing a leaky faucet, drywall repair or painting a wall,” says Gonnering. “We can also remodel homes or businesses or build out for retail. That would entail having more people on staff, or more craftsmen that can do the different types of work.”

For more information on HomeTown Pro, check out its Web site at http://hometownproinc.com