In May of 2024, Jake Schmidt, owner of Smitty's Detail Shop at 1187 West Main Street, opened Schmidt's Automotive (at the same location) to create a 'one-stop-shop' for Wilmington car owners to receive total vehicle care under one roof—including exterior ceramic coating, mechanical repairs, custom suspensions, and even window tinting (coming soon). Adding the mechanic side of the business was an idea that Jake had for years, but was patiently awaiting the right team to help him. “Jake, 6 years ago, tried to get me to work with him... I wish I would have done it sooner. It's probably been one of the best decisions I've ever made in my life," stated Tyler Kuhbander, current Manager of Schmidt's Automotive.
Throughout his entire life, Jake has always had an entrepreneurial mindset and a persistent attitude toward obtaining success. "[As a kid] I asked myself how millionaires and billionaires become millionaires and billionaires, and I realized that the same traits that those guys have [is] just the same as I was naturally... and that's being dedicated and committed in everything that you do".
These key aspects of his values and personality were put to the test directly after purchasing Smitty's in February 2020, just 2 weeks before COVID. "No income in the business would have depleted us because I went into the business with little money." But, Jake's persistence passed the test, and he began to offer sanitation services, which kept his business afloat throughout the pandemic.
Now, Jake and Tyler aim to offer services that most Wilmington residents would have to drive almost an hour to receive. The main goal of the automotive shop is to establish trust in a field that can typically be deemed as untrustworthy. "We're just trying to show the community that you don't [have] to be scared [of] going to an automotive shop," stated Jake.
To learn more about Smitty's Detail Shop call (937) 383-3990. To learn more about Schmidt's call (513) 800-6417.