TROY SMALL Copperwater Consulting, Inc.

From Combat to Consulting: Troy Small's Path to Entrepreneurial Success

In the bustling city of Murrieta, California, Troy Small is making waves with his business, Copperwater Consulting, Inc. Small's journey from a combat zone in the Persian Gulf to the boardrooms of consulting and business strategy is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and an unyielding commitment to service

A Legacy of Service and Transition

Troy Small's story begins in July 1989 when he enlisted in the Marine Corps as a Heavy Machine Gunner. His service in Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm marked the beginning of a distinguished military career. After experiencing a significant shift in his role due to troop reductions, Small transitioned to a new Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) in Supply Administration, and later, Purchasing and Contracting Specialist. This change not only defined his career but also set the stage for his future entrepreneurial endeavors

"I always knew I wanted to own my own business," Small reflects. "The question was when and how. My entrepreneurial journey truly began in January 2017 when I founded Copperwater Consulting, Inc , while still working as a civilian employee with the Navy in San Diego."

The Catalyst for Change

“The drive to start Copperwater Consulting was ignited by personal hardships. Long commutes and the toll of sitting at a desk exacerbated Small's military disabilities and PTSD symptoms. After several near-miss freeway accidents and mounting stress, Small made a pivotal decision in 2016 to pursue entrepreneurship full-time. The commute and stress were impacting my quality of life," Small explains "I decided it was time to take a chance on my business idea I started Copperwater Consulting as a professional hobby until I could transition fully from my Navy career."

Self-Reliance and Innovation

“Small's journey was marked by a lack of traditional mentorship. Instead, he drew inspiration from consultants he knew personally and those he followed on YouTube "I didn't have a mentor specifically guiding me," he says. "I wanted to create a blueprint for others in similar circumstances, to show that success is achievable. I believe in trusting myself and my own ideas "

Copperwater Consulting's mission is clear: to assist veteran-owned and small businesses in achieving efficiency and compliance while advancing in government contracting and grants Small's goal is to help others realize their business ownership dreams and achieve self-sufficiency.

Overcoming Challenges

One of the most significant challenges Small faced was managing cash flow during the early stages of his business "There were times when all my accounts were empty, and I was behind on my mortgage," he recalls "To overcome this, I sought other opportunities and took on a role as a Government Contracting Business Consultant with Skyway Acquisition, LLC."

This role not only provided financial stability but also led to Small's current position as VP of Sales and a member of Skyway Acquisition's leadership team.

Milestones and Success

A standout achievement for Small was winning a fiveyear service contract with Riverside County in 2022 to provide Business Consultant Services for the Coachella Valley Small Business Development Center (SBDC) "This contract allowed me to mentor and train small business owners across a broad region," Small proudly states. "From Orange County to the Coachella Valley, I help clients with business formation, compliance, planning, and expanding into government contracting."

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Small advises new entrepreneurs to thoroughly understand and execute the formal steps of starting a business, including entity types, licenses, and tax implications. "Proper compliance from the start prevents future distractions and complications," he says

Lessons and Resilience

The most important lesson Small has learned is to rely on his own judgment and creativity "Betting on myself has been the key to my success," he says "While outside advice can be helpful, pursuing and achieving your own ideas is what truly matters."

Small views setbacks as opportunities for learning rather than losses "I see 'L's as Learns," he explains "Every setback is a chance to gain valuable insights that improve my effectiveness as an entrepreneur."

Defining Success

For Small, success is measured by cash flow and goal achievement. "Cash flow is crucial for covering basic operations," he explains "I focus on setting and achieving specific goals to ensure growth and profitability. Being laser-focused and intentional about my work increases my productivity and success."

Reflections and Legacy

Looking back, Small wishes he had better understood the differences between S-Corporations and CCorporations. "I initially incorporated as a CCorporation, which caused issues with accessing funds," he recalls. "I later corrected this to an SCorporation, but it would have been better to start with the right entity from the beginning."

Small's desired legacy through his business is one of service, connection, and empowerment. "I want to provide lasting resources that help individuals connect with opportunities, enrich their families, and empower their communities " www.copperwaterconsulting.com

Troy Small's journey from military service to entrepreneurship is a powerful example of dedication and transformation His focus on health, continuous learning, and self-reliance highlights the core principles that have driven his success.

For those interested in Copperwater Consulting, Inc. and its offerings, visit their website or connect with Small on LinkedIn.

LinkedIn: troy-a-small-mba/