National Small Business Week Spotlight: PHC Restoration

Katie Smith (’04) owns PHC Restoration, an Orange Owned business that specializes in 24/7 emergency repair for water, fire and storm damage as well as emergency mold removal.

Why did you decide to become a small business owner?

Being a second generation business owner means carrying on your family’s legacy. To be able to do that and help people at the same time is something special. I’m proud that we get to help people recover after experiencing devastating losses to their home or business.

I also enjoy building a great team. I get to create a place where people feel like they belong to something bigger than themselves, where they can unleash their potential and be their best self.

How did your Campbell degree prepare you to start your own business?

As a Communication Studies student, my time at Campbell helped me become a better writer and a better public speaker. It’s my responsibility to create content that establishes PHC Restoration as an industry leader. Whether it’s press releases, presentations, website content or social media content, I know how to effectively and persuasively communicate by tailoring my message to the audience.

My education also prepared me to be a better volunteer in my industry. As the President of an international trade association, I represent thousands of restoration contractors and speak on their behalf. I am frequently asked to write articles for trade publications and speak at events. When hosting industry events, I am confident in addressing the crowd or producing behind the scenes. I built the foundation for these skills at Campbell University.

What is your favorite part of owning your own business?

Creating a company culture that makes work a little more fun!

Why is it important for people to shop local and shop small?

The dollars that you spend with a local business stay in your community! At PHC, we feel a responsibility to leave everything better than we found it, and that’s why it’s part of our company’s mission to make a positive impact on our community. We do that through giving our time, talents and treasure to make our community a better place to live, work and play.

What advice do you have for alumni and students who are interested in starting their own business?

Always know your “why” and let your purpose lead you as you develop your company’s mission, vision, values and strategy.

Orange Owned connects Campbell alumni with businesses owned and operated by fellow alumni. Visit our web page to learn more about Orange Owned, find local businesses near you, or register your business.