About
Thayne Jaden Harrison’s interest as an entrepreneur and small business person was influenced by his father, W. Thayne Harrison; Carroll professor Dr. Annette Ryerson; and the ZinnStarter program here at Carroll to create his own business, Carroll Headlight Restoration. Jaden shares in his own words a bit more about his journey:
Last summer, I came across a specific number that I needed to earn in order to keep my football and academic dreams alive here at Carroll College. I am very blessed with both athletic and academic scholarships but as you know that does not always cover the full cost of tuition. So, in order to stay here in Helena, I had to come up with a way to make up the difference. With help and guidance from my father and his spouse, I assessed my skills and strengths. My father owns a used car dealership in St. George, Utah, where I grew up detailing the cars. So, after some thought I realized that I could produce in volume one part of the detail process – that was the headlight restoration. Thus, the idea for Carroll Headlight Restoration was conceived.
It wasn't easy to start off, and if it weren't for the guidance and help of those around me, I'm not sure if my idea would have made it out of the early stages. But with much guidance from my father, I was able to start a small marketing strategy to get my name out there. Fortunately, I was also taking a marketing class here on campus with Dr. Annette Ryerson. Her class really helped me take my marketing campaign to where it is today. I was able to learn real-world concepts in her class and then turn around and apply them the same day. It was a very exciting and helpful experience.
After a number of weeks, I was running at full capacity, averaging about 7 cars a day at 6 days a week. I was happy with the steady stream of clientele and satisfied with the work I was putting out. That's when I heard about ZinnStarter. I was super excited to enter the contest with my infant business. Even though the judges ended up going in a different direction, I was very happy with the whole process that ZinnStarter brought me. I was able to take a step back and do a deep assessment of my operation. Many new angles and ideas that I had never thought of were brought to my attention. In the end, I did not win the prize money, but the ideas that were formulated in the process ended up making me much more in revenue than the first-place prize.
In all, it was a very beneficial process for me and my humble business since I have continued to go out into the community and meet many people as I restore their headlights. It has been an amazing learning experience for me and I have been able to keep my dreams of being a collegiate athlete alive. I am very grateful to be a part of Carroll College, grateful to be a part of the football team and the business program. I know it to be the place my Heavenly Father wants me to be in His eternal plan. ~ Jaden Harrison, sophomore, St. George, Utah