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Mendel’s Hot Rods

Lexington, KY

Owners: Paul Mendel and Miles Washko
Center: Bluegrass SBDC
www.mendelshotrod.com

When Paul Mendel and Miles Washko met while working at a local hospital they realized they had much more in common than their work in the field of nursing.  They both developed a deep love for automobiles and hot rods during their careers in the Navy and Marines, respectively. Additionally, both men had a desire to turn their hobby into a business.  The two teamed up and created Mendel’s Hot Rods.  Before the men opened their doors, they sought assistance from the Bluegrass SBDC.

“We were referred to the SBDC through the SBA and the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development,” said Paul.

The Bluegrass SBDC assisted by reviewing the business plan and ensuring all the documents were in order for the men to pursue financing.

“Without the SBDC, the Cabinet for Economic Development and Commerce Lexington, Mendel’s Hot Rods would still be a dream that would never have come true,” said Paul Mendel.  

Mendel’s Hot Rods offers an assortment of services and products.  The shop specializes in building custom cars and trucks; restorations and performance parts for classic automobiles; and, working with racing and tuner cars.  The shop also offers spray on bed liners and auto body soda blasting.  Currently, the men are undergoing training to become street rod inspectors.

Mendel’s Hot Rods also offers experience.  Paul Mendel is a Certified Builder of Cobra Cars.  He has been customizing cars since the late 70s. Miles Washko started working on cars as a youngster at his father’s auto body shop in Huntsville, Alabama. He restored several cars while in the service including the base Sergeant Major’s 67 Camaro Convertible.

Mendel’s Hot Rods is located at 107 Trafton Street, Suite 3110 in Lexington.  They can be visited on the web at www.mendelshotrod.com.