Lawrence and Vicky Hawkins
Hawkins Trucking, Inc.
West Rutland, VT
Lawrence and Vicky Hawkins own and operate Hawkins Trucking, Inc. Hawkins Trucking is a hauling business that specializes in the transport of unprocessed logs from the forest to lumber, pulp, and veneer yards, covering primarily Vermont and northeastern New York. Hawkins Trucking currently services 25 individual businesses and, with adjustments for weather conditions, operates year round.

The Hawkins launched their hauling business in 2003 when they needed more flexibilility in their schedules. Lawrence had been driving 18 wheelers for 23 years and had been in the wood business for the last 18 years. Vicky was employed for several years as a manager for a large landscaping company. In addition, she operates two other small businesses including a maple sugar operation and a small greenhouse.

Having skills and experience are not the only assets that make a business successful. The right kind of financing is also a key ingredient. When Vicky and Lawrence realized that their high interest business equipment loans could threaten their financial stability, Bennington-Rutland Opportunity Council business counselor Michele Rock referred them to Community Capital for help. Vicky remarked: "Because of Community Capital, we have the resources to invest in our business."

Community Capital was pleased to partner with Vermont Job Start to refinance the Hawkins' existing debt. Now the Hawkins can support their family while offering a needed service for the local logging industry.