Renee Schofield, owner of Tongass Substance Safety, Inc. (TSS), has worked with Small Business Development Centers since 1992, first in Iowa, then in Alaska when she relocated to Ketchikan in 2000. Schofield has spent years with her business advisor, Linda Koons Auger, checking in periodically and discussing an ever-evolving growth strategy for her booming business as it responds to changes in the 
market.
With so much experience working with SBDCs and success as a small business owner, Schofield was asked to join the AK SBDC Advisory Board several years ago. Most recently, Schofield was awarded the Small Business Administration’s 2015 Small Business Person of the Year award for Alaska, a huge honor in the small business community as well as DATIA’s Exemplary Public Awareness Award.
“I use SBDC on a regular basis. For resources, training opportunities and so much more. Linda (and past advisors) are a valued part of my advisory team,” said Schofield. “Since 1992, SBDC has assisted in growth, mentoring, re-branding and exit planning for me and my company”.
TSS has been in business now for over 15 years and has grown exponentially with offices in Alaska, Iowa, Missouri and Illinois. It is truly a unique company that not only promotes safety but also integrates and gives back to the communities they serve by connecting people and providing resources, information and a listening ear. In fact, Schofield is leveraging this experience by embarking on a new venture to offer business and life success coaching for women. More information on TSS can be found on the web at www.tss-safety.com.
