Chardon Entrepreneur Pivots to Automotive Restoration Venture

When the COVID-19 pandemic forced the interruption of operations at Tim Staggs' custom manufacturing business in Chardon, Ohio, he saw an opportunity to explore a new direction. Inspired by his son Jonathan's suggestion, Staggs turned his attention to the family's longstanding hobby of restoring classic cars, leading him to establish Leroy Engineering, a venture he now runs alongside his existing business, Aspiretec.

Reviving Automotive Passion and Entrepreneurial Spirit

Adapting to Pandemic Challenges

The COVID-19 pandemic presented significant challenges for many businesses, and Tim Staggs' custom manufacturing operation was no exception. As operations were forced to grind to a halt, Staggs found himself at a crossroads, needing to explore alternative avenues to sustain his entrepreneurial endeavors. Rather than succumbing to the uncertainty, he chose to embrace the opportunity for change, drawing inspiration from an unexpected source – his son's passion for classic car restoration.

Leveraging Family Interests

Staggs had long shared his son Jonathan's enthusiasm for restoring vintage automobiles, a hobby they had enjoyed together for years. When the pandemic disrupted his primary business, Staggs recognized the potential to transform this shared interest into a new entrepreneurial venture. With Jonathan's suggestion as the catalyst, Staggs decided to channel his energy and expertise into establishing Leroy Engineering, a company dedicated to the restoration and preservation of classic cars.

Establishing Leroy Engineering

The decision to launch Leroy Engineering was not without its challenges, but Staggs' entrepreneurial spirit and passion for the automotive industry propelled him forward. He leveraged his existing manufacturing capabilities and technical know-how to create a specialized facility focused on the meticulous restoration of vintage vehicles. By combining his business acumen with his personal interest in classic cars, Staggs was able to breathe new life into a venture that not only fulfilled his own aspirations but also provided a unique service to a growing community of enthusiasts.

Synergies with Aspiretec

While Leroy Engineering represented a significant shift in Staggs' entrepreneurial journey, he recognized the potential for synergies with his existing business, Aspiretec. By drawing on the resources, expertise, and infrastructure of Aspiretec, Staggs was able to streamline the operations of Leroy Engineering, creating a more efficient and effective restoration service. This strategic integration allowed him to capitalize on the strengths of both ventures, ultimately enhancing the overall success of his entrepreneurial endeavors.

Embracing Challenges and Opportunities

The transition from a custom manufacturing business to an automotive restoration company was not without its challenges, but Staggs approached each obstacle with a determined and innovative mindset. He recognized that the pandemic had presented an opportunity to pivot his entrepreneurial focus, and he seized it with enthusiasm. By leveraging his existing skills, resources, and family connections, Staggs was able to create a thriving new venture that not only fulfilled his personal passions but also provided a valuable service to a growing community of classic car enthusiasts.