Name: Stan Gray
Location: Long Beach and Torrance, CA
Franchise Owner Since: 2015
1. Please describe your past military experience:
In 2009, I was commissioned as a Civil Engineer Corps officer in the United States Navy Reserve. I served in the construction forces of the Navy.
2. How has your military training helped with running a business?
My military experience gave me lots of opportunities to develop leadership skills that I use daily in my business today.
3. What made you decide to buy a franchise?
I am an architect and worked on lots of branding and communication projects. Directly previous to starting my FASTSIGNS business, I worked for a large real estate developer and fund manager, expanding on my interest in the communication, graphics, and signage field. With an interest in starting my own business, I came across FASTSIGNS. I found it to be a perfect fit for my background. I was interested in starting a business in which I could use my experiences and skills, but still challenge myself in new ways. I also wanted a proven support network to help fill in the gaps where I did not have the experience. A franchise seemed to be the right path in that respect, especially FASTSIGNS.
4. What was it about the franchise model and/or leadership that led you to purchase your franchise?
There is not a one size fits all approach. The foundation that the FASTSIGNS leadership lays out is quite extensive, however, each owner has the room to grow the business where they want. For instance, being an architect, I tend to focus on the construction industry and ADA accessible signage projects. FASTSIGNS provides a strong foundation that allows the owner to develop their business based on their own strengths.
5. What advice do you have for active military/vets who might be considering a franchise?
As a veteran myself, we are used to being committed to a common goal. I can say the same for the FASTSIGNS network, whether it's a fellow franchisee or FASTSIGNS International team member, we are all navigating our business with the goals of growing value for our businesses and network.
6. Where do you see yourself in five years?
It's amazing to see where our business has come in six years. When I look five years ahead, I see myself in the network with much more experience undertaking larger projects. Network-wide, one of the most exciting things I've seen is how our FASTSIGNS network has grown and continues to grow.
For more information on FASTSIGNS franchise opportunities, call (214) 346-5679 or visit www.fsfastsigns.com/own-a-fastsigns.
