by John Kabateck, NFIB/CA Executive Director

At a time when California businesses are leaving and the National Federation of Independent Business, California is working hard on behalf of small business owners, I want to recognize Mr. Satgur Athwal for his ability to actually create jobs in this struggling economy.

An immigrant to the United States when he was only 13 years old, Satgur Athwal has created his own American Dream.  After working on cars for 20 years, like many businesses, his experienced a downturn.

Looking for a new opportunity, he saw an ad in the paper for FedEx Ground and applied. Starting as a temporary driver with another FedEx Ground independent contractor, he worked hard and seized the opportunity in 2005 to run his own route – and more importantly his own business.

Fast forward to 2012, when other companies are struggling to make payroll, Athwal has grown his business to six routes and nine employees covering 12 zip codes throughout Riverside and San Bernardino County. For the second year in a row, FedEx Ground has recognized him as a regional winner for Entrepreneur of the Year and finalist in the nationwide recognition program. Out of the nearly 9,000 small businesses that contract with FedEx Ground, only a handful earn this award including Mr. Athwal.

So I just want to thank you Mr. Athwal for your vision, and your ability to create jobs and accomplish great things in this tough economy.  NFIB/CA is proud to support you and other small business owners around the state in Sacramento and Washington D.C.

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NFIB is the nation’s leading small business association, with offices in Washington, D.C. and all 50 states. Founded in 1943 as a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, NFIB gives small and independent business owners a voice in shaping the public policy issues that affect their business. NFIB’s powerful network of grassroots activists sends their views directly to state and federal lawmakers through our unique member-only ballot, thus playing a critical role in supporting America’s free enterprise system. NFIB’s mission is to promote and protect the right of our members to own, operate and grow their businesses. More information about NFIB is available online at www.NFIB.com/newsroom.