[CADesign]

Cascade Advanced Design (CAD) is a sole-proprietorship, service oriented business located in the Pacific Northwest.

I do drafting and design and have consulting as a tag as well to cover the rest of what I do.
I'm a relatively young business but, hopefully, I'm getting my roots firmly implanted in this neck of the woods. I've been a draftsman for over 16 years now but finally broke loose of those corporate bonds and started my own business a few years ago.

I was, of course, terrified about the uncertainty of "going it alone" but, to be truthful, found working as an employee to be nearly as uncertain. As our economy changed, so changed the structures of the companies that I worked for. I got laid off several times due to corporate downsizing and it seemed to happen every 5 years or so. The last employer that I had simply retired and I had little choice but to find small jobs since I live in a rural setting here in the Columbia River Gorge in Washington.

I had many contacts through my work for the Architect that retired so in using these contacts I was able to network locally and get the word out that I was open for business.
I was really "wingin' it" for a while but eventually things started to click. I was now working from home, so no commute (as gas prices started to rise). I maintain a nearly paperless office by sending data either directly to clients or, if hard copies are needed, I send files to "Service Bureaus" like Kiko's or The UPS Store for customer pickup.

My only real costs are for software and general office supplies with some travel expenses and marketing. With low overhead I have managed to make things work so that I can get through the down times and save during the upswings.
At 55, I want to be able to wind down somewhat and ease into retirement (which will also include working, but at a bit slower pace).

Owning my own business is the best way I know to take control of my destiny. Through hard work and some planning and endurance I have no doubt that things will work out.

It's the funniest thing that, just when I start to doubt or worry about making ends meet, I get a few more calls and am suddenly too busy and worrying if I bit off more than I can chew.

I'd love to have a much greater margin to buffer tough times but know that I can gradually work toward that end. If you are young, start saving now, you'll never regret it. Fortunately our humble home is nearly paid off and we are virtually debt free so at least we are able to keep our heads above water in this souring economy. By keeping an open mind and drawing on past experiences it's surprising how smoothly things go in the long run.

I wish you all well in your business pursuits, follow your heart and your gut feelings and you'll never go wrong.

With Best Wishes,

Dave
(CADesign)