It’s always inspiring to see a local business thrive and make a difference in their community. The story of Performance Maintenance Inc. (PMI) highlights how dedication and hard work can transform a small venture into a significant enterprise.

From Small Beginnings to Big Milestones

Eric Quintana founded PMI in 1994, starting with just a few clients and a strong dream. Initially, he took on cleaning tasks to help his friend, while also aiming to give his sons a special Christmas gift. With his wife, Celina, on board, they turned their small cleaning service into a comprehensive building maintenance company that has now flourished for nearly 32 years.

Based in Española, New Mexico, PMI has expanded its reach to locations in Santa Fe and Los Alamos, employing over 200 individuals. Their recent growth includes hiring staff to explore opportunities in Albuquerque and constructing a new 20,000-square-foot distribution center in Española. This upward trajectory was recognized when Eric Quintana received the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) New Mexico Small Business Person of the Year award, which highlights PMI’s enduring influence and commitment to community service.

Building Community and Family Legacies

The Quintana family’s dedication to their business and community is evident. Eric credits much of his success to his hardworking team and family, particularly his sons, Daven and Eric Jr., who are now key operational figures in PMI. Daven expressed gratitude for the legacy his parents built, noting that it proves their hard work was worth it.

At PMI, the Quintana family learned valuable lessons including the importance of seizing opportunities. Eric recalls a moment when someone doubted PMI’s capability, leading him to teach his children about the virtue of acceptance and commitment. Over the years, PMI has grown from a small service provider to a comprehensive company that offers janitorial services, deep cleaning, and a substantial line of cleaning products—all sold through an online store that ships nationwide.

Sustainable Practices and Growth Strategies

PMI’s growth wasn’t just due to expanding their services. A significant partnership with the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) played a crucial role in their journey. With a contract valued over $52 million secured in 2019, PMI stepped into the realm of larger contracts, further solidifying their position in the market.

Eric attributes this achievement to his involvement with the SBA since 1997, stating that their support was vital in navigating complex contract requirements. He also emphasizes the importance of investing in safe and sustainable cleaning products due to rising health concerns around many traditional chemicals.

As they continue to grow, PMI plans to focus on workforce development. The idea behind this is to not only supply cleaning products but also to train clients on how to use them effectively, thus enhancing overall service and satisfaction.

Challenges and Triumphs of Entrepreneurship

Running a small business has its challenges. Eric Quintana reminisces about the tough times, yet he sees his journey as one of freedom, filled with the rewards that come from hard work. The lessons learned along the way are invaluable. He advises aspiring business owners to be proactive rather than wait for customers to come to them.

His journey underscores a vital truth: entrepreneurship is more than just a job; it’s a commitment to community and family. PMI not only provides jobs but also engages in practices that support local growth, showing that a successful business can have a positive impact on the surrounding community.

What this means for you

The success of Performance Maintenance Inc. serves as a reminder that with hard work, any venture can grow and create opportunities. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or a consumer, it’s crucial to recognize the value of local businesses and their contributions. If you ever need to review contracts or agreements related to employment or services, legal-document-to-plain-english-translator/”>AI legalese decoder can translate it into plain English in seconds.

Source: https://www.abqjournal.com/business/how-an-espanola-cleaner-became-new-mexicos-top-small-business-owner/3056464