Georgian College

In 2013, Georgian students Nathan Ayrheart and Andrew Burke were two college buddies in need of summer jobs. Being entrepreneurially minded, the pair decided to start their own business washing cars. By fall they had become so busy they realized their little summer project, Georgian Detailing, had the potential to become something much more significant. Nathan and Andrew turned to Georgian's Henry Bernick Entrepreneurship Centre (HBEC), a department that assists local entrepreneurs with training, connections, funding and mentorship. They met with then HBEC Executive Director John Pickard, who shared his knowledge and experience of launching new products and businesses. He gave them encouragement and guidance, and helped them forge a plan forward. They also took advantage of other services available through HBEC, including logo design and website development, and continued nurturing their growing company. Nathan and Andrew graduated from their Georgian programs in 2014, and now employ up to 10 people. To keep up with demand they also doubled the size of their shop, moving into a new 5,000-square-foot facility in south Barrie. "We are still having fun and learning new skills every day," says Nathan. "We are always looking at interesting ways to improve what we are giving our customers." Even with their busy schedules they still find time to go back to Georgian for advice or to use college resources. Nathan says Georgian has been helpful with their hiring challenges by connecting them with suitable employees. These busy entrepreneurs remain connected with their alma mater and are strong supporters of student success. The pair are often asked to attend events like the Auto Show. They've also given presentations in Automotive Business School of Canada (ABSC) classes talking about what they have done and what students can accomplish, as well as supporting Georgian fundraising efforts including the Crystal Ball, held this past November. "Georgian was a great experience for us when we were students and ever since we started this venture they have been nothing but supportive," says Andrew. "They have done so much to help us along the way that we are happy to give back." Their commitment to giving back is not limited to Georgian. They are heavily involved in community and business organizations like the Barrie Chamber of Commerce, Business Networking International (BNI), Rotaract, and the Simcoe County Young Professional's Association (SCYPA). They also actively support charitable organizations like Rainbows Canada, the Heart and Stroke Foundation, and women and children's centres. "Many local charities resonate with myself and Nathan," says Andrew. "We can see the great work these organizations are doing in the community and we're happy to help." FIRST HBEC CLIENTS FIND SUCCESS Nathan Ayrheart, Architectural Technology, class of 2014 Andrew Burke, Business Administration, class of 2014 15 GEORGIANVIEW 2019-20 WINTER ENTREPRENEURSHIP

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