Client Corner

This client was featured in February 2003. The information in this profile was accurate at the time of writing. Please contact us if you believe something should be changed.

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Jerry Shoff
Shoff Consulting Engineers
Cedar Falls, Iowa

As a sole proprietor with one employee, Jerry Shoff knew his background in civil engineering would give his new business the competitive edge. Now, one year, nine employees and a Limited Liability Company later, he understands the importance of experience. More than 25 years of engineering experience among senior associates, coupled with a diverse client base and strong work ethic made Shoff Consulting Engineers (SCE) one of the fastest growing companies in the Cedar Valley during 2002. SCE's clients consist mostly of municipalities and private developers.

Managing growth has been Shoff's greatest challenge, which he's overcome by simply taking the time to get up the steep learning curve. He has carefully hired and trained the right people and invested heavily in new technologies. Patience and careful planning have paid off in dividends for Shoff, and it's sent him looking for office space. He will soon be moving his home-based business to a centralized location, where he and his associates will no longer rely on telecommuting to work with each other.

Shoff sought the services of the UNI Regional Business Center early on in his pre-venture planning stage by attending Fast Trac, a program that he recommends every new business owner go through. He's also a firm believer in professional mentors - hire an accountant, a CPA, an attorney. Most importantly, above all other advice to entrepreneurs, Shoff is adamant that they must enjoy what they're doing.

Headed into year two, Shoff reflects on the greatest rewards he's experienced so far, "I've enjoyed seeing employees broaden their knowledge in new areas and seeing their success in managing projects on their own." If he had it to do over again, he'd do it sooner.