Jr. Mobile Mechanics, launched by CMU Tech graduate Isaiah Solomon, celebrates growth and a ribbon-cutting with the Grand Junction Chamber of Commerce
When Isaiah Solomon first appeared on episode one of Life in the Trades, he was just beginning to make a name for himself as the owner of Jr. Mobile Mechanics. The CMU Tech graduate had turned a passion for working on cars into a business that brings repair services directly to customers.
In the months since, his business has taken off. Demand for his services has grown steadily, leading to a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Grand Junction Chamber of Commerce. For Solomon, the event was an important milestone in his career.
“This ribbon cutting means the world to me,” Solomon said. “To know the Chamber is helping me and is behind me in support is amazing. Not only can I lean on friends and family, but I can lean on an actual local mentorship program.”
What started as a side hustle during his time at CMU Tech has evolved into a full-fledged business, with customers across the Grand Valley requesting his services.
As his customer base grows, Solomon continues to point to CMU Tech as a key part of his success. The Transportation Services program gave him the chance to apply what he learned during lessons directly to hands-on work in the shop, whether it was rebuilding an engine or troubleshooting electrical systems. It also connected him to a wider business network.
“CMU Tech is probably one of the biggest reasons I’m doing this today,” he said. “They helped drive my motivation for starting the business, and they’ve really helped me communicate with people in the community, the Chamber of Commerce, the business incubator and other small businesses.”
Looking ahead, Solomon hopes that he can expand Jr. Mobile Mechanics with permanent shops in the future while keeping the convenience of mobile repair at its core. His long-term vision includes opening locations throughout Colorado and eventually in other states.
Community leaders see his story as an example of how education in the trades can strengthen the local economy.
“The Grand Junction Chamber of Commerce prioritizes skilled trades and the importance they have within our community,” said Chamber President and CEO Candace Carnahan. “Trades are careers that are evergreen. We need these services to keep our community moving forward, and CMU Tech provides students with the skills to succeed.”
Carnahan said supporting entrepreneurs like Solomon not only benefits individual businesses but also helps maintain the economic vitality of the region.
“Isaiah’s entrepreneurial spirit and fortitude to really bring the vision of his business to life are exactly what we love seeing here within our community. We’re thrilled to now call him part of our business community and watch him thrive as a peer,” said Carnahan.
For Solomon, the road ahead is filled with possibilities. What started with an interest in cars as a teenager has grown into a business with the potential to reach far beyond western Colorado. Just like those early days in the shop, he’s still eager to put in the work that will carry Jr. Mobile Mechanics into the future.