Military Veteran Nanette Thomas Transforms Expertise into Pavement Maintenance Success

Nanette Thomas, franchise owner of EverLine Coatings Baltimore NE, has successfully transitioned her extensive military service and process engineering expertise into the pavement maintenance industry. Since its launch in July 2024, her business has focused on delivering LEED-compliant solutions and exceptional customer service, aiming to carve out a significant presence in Baltimore's competitive market.

Thomas's path to entrepreneurship was influenced by her military career and a decade-long search for the right franchise opportunity. Her structured approach and dedication to clear communication have been instrumental in overcoming the challenges of entering a saturated market. Despite initial setbacks, including the loss of several bids, Thomas and her husband's persistence has led to securing contracts with military installations and partnerships with organizations like the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

One of the critical insights Thomas offers is the necessity of balancing strict operational standards with the flexibility to adapt to client needs, ensuring quality is never compromised. Her background in technology and government contracting, including roles at the Pentagon, has provided her with the skills to efficiently manage complex logistics and systems, directly benefiting her franchise's operations.

Among her most notable accomplishments are projects completed for the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Make-A-Wish Foundation, underscoring her commitment to community service. Thomas encourages aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly veterans and women, to utilize their unique experiences and seek out support from existing networks to navigate the challenges of starting a business.