Founded in 2022 by Loren and Rebecca Skavdal, Powerhouse Garage serves the Humboldt County area with honest, high-quality auto repair. Loren brings two decades of experience working on vehicles, while Rebecca manages operations and customer relations. The shop specializes in diesel trucks and 4x4s but services all types of vehicles. Their mission is to provide the community with reliable, integrity-driven automotive service. Powerhouse Garage has been recognized by the Fortuna Chamber of Commerce as both New Business of the Year and Small Business of the Year.

Motivated to advance in the automotive industry and build a business of their own, the family opened the shop to serve the Fortuna community. Having lived in Fortuna for seven years, the Skavdals are dedicated to providing honest, reliable, and trustworthy auto services.

Powerhouse Garage faced several challenges on their journey to opening their own auto shop. One of the biggest challenges was securing a commercial property. Powerhouse Garage found an existing auto shop available for purchase and with guidance from the SBDC, they were able to secure the location. 

The SBDC provided Powerhouse Garage with guidance, tools and resources. The motivated team at Powerhouse Garage combined with these free services offered by the SBDC, shaped into a well-prepared opening. From the start, their advisor helped them develop a detailed and adaptable business plan. Later on, they received additional guidance from another SBDC advisor with specialized expertise in business acquisitions.

“Our SBDC advisor was very informative.” -Loren, Owner