“Something Special” - Teamwork, community vision helps Moffat County Customs to thrive

January 28, 2025

Craig Press

Dan and Katie Johnston

Owing to community-based perspectives and a notion of teamwork, Dan and Katie Johnston have turned a shared vision into a thriving small business.

Their automotive audio and electronics shop, called Moffat County Customs, has seen steady growth since opening in 2020 on account of the couple’s determination in addition to a deep level of community support. A recent grant from the Craig Business Plan Competition allowed them to also expand in size, as well as in the range of products and services that they offer.

Dan, a car audio and electronics expert with two decades of experience, and Katie, an educator and school administrator, moved to Craig in 2019. They were drawn to Moffat County’s charm as well as the opportunities it provided for both of them.

“We fell in love with Craig during our first visit,” said Katie. “It’s a beautiful place with a supportive community, and we immediately felt at home.”

Dan initially operated MCC out of a shop behind their home within the city limits. However, a potential leap forward presented itself in 2024 when the couple learned about the Craig Business Plan Competition.

The local competition offers funding to new and existing businesses to foster economic growth. It is a collaboration between the City of Craig, Moffat County, the Northwest Colorado Small Business Development Center, the Economic Development Office of Craig and the Moffat County Local Marketing District.

Dan and Katie jumped at the opportunity, drafting a detailed 35-page business plan with guidance from the Northwest Small Business Development Center.

Their efforts paid off.

On Oct. 22, Moffat County Customs won first place in the existing business category, receiving a $15,000 grant. The funds enabled Dan and Katie to upgrade their home-based operation to a full-scale commercial space at 316 Mack Lane, marking a significant step forward.

“This grant was the catalyst for taking the leap,” Dan said. “It gave us the financial cushion and confidence to move into a commercial location — a dream we thought was years away.”

The expanded space has allowed Dan to work more efficiently, serve more customers and offer new services like custom subwoofer box fabrication and eventually electronic key cloning. They also hope that it will grow to become a hub for automotive enthusiasts in Craig.

“We hope to eventually hire part-time employees, providing job opportunities and keeping the local economy thriving,” Katie said. “It’s rewarding to know that we’re contributing to the community.”

The couple is also committed to fostering education and do-it-yourself skills in the community. In the future, they hope to begin hosting events and gatherings where locals can showcase their vehicles, learn new skills and connect with others.

Dan and Katie combine their individual strengths to collectively contribute to the operation and management of the business. Dan focuses on installations and technical expertise, while Katie dedicates herself to the administrative and bookkeeping aspects.

“Opposites attract,” Katie joked. “Dan wants me to be involved in installations, but I’m happier managing the paperwork and answering the phone.”

Their teamwork has not only strengthened their business but also deepened their bond as a couple.

“Having everything under one roof now lets us leave work at work and focus on family when we’re home,” Katie added.

In addition to expanding their business, the Johnstons are also preparing for a new chapter in their personal lives as expectant parents to a baby girl due in March. Balancing the demands of the business with parenthood, the couple is thrilled about both their personal and professional futures.

Looking ahead, the Johnstons aim to make Moffat County Customs a cornerstone of the community by expanding their team and establishing a maker space, which will provide opportunities for locals to learn from Dan as well as other members of the community.

“I want this shop to stay community-focused, even after we’re gone,” Dan said. “Succession planning is important to us. We want this business to remain a part of Craig forever.”

Their journey exemplifies the power of local support and the opportunities that small towns like Craig offer.

“In Craig, the moment you open your doors, people root for you,” Dan said. “That’s something special.”