There’s nothing like taking a leap of faith to start a business. But Susan Mercurio did more than leap — she sold her Porsche to start Cut ’n Core in 1979. But the sacrifice paid off. Today, Cut ’n Core is a 20-employee company that provides concrete and asphalt cutting services as well as core drilling and wall sawing. The union shop’s clients include the San Diego Unified Port District, the state Department of Transportation and San Diego Gas & Electric. For her successes, Mercurio is the SBA’s Woman-Owned Small Business of the Year honoree this year.

Mercurio started Cut ’n Core with her now ex-husband Michael. They divorced in 1988 and she took over the business. “I wound up in a man’s industry and truly enjoy every day of work,” says Mercurio. “I look forward to working daily with our customers and providing a good place to work for our co-workers.”

Mercurio’s ability to handle herself in a male dominated industry has won the respect of her colleagues. “I am honored to have a female business associate in this field who is reliable and honest, with the needed expertise to handle the challenges of construction,” notes Lesli L. Collins, president of American Bobcat & Backhoe Service Inc. in San Marcos. “The construction industry isn’t always the easiest place for a woman to make a name for herself and her company, but she has done an exceptional job.”

In a letter to Mercurio, Tim Neff, purchasing agent and shop manager for Schmidt Fire Protection Co. Inc., says, “We pride ourselves on being one of the best fire sprinkler contractors in the county and it only makes sense to align yourself with the best when working with other companies to provide excellent service for our customers. I cannot help but believe this is a true reflection of your commitment and dedication to making your world a better place to live for you and your extended family (the people who work with you).”

Quality is Mercurio’s goal — a principle on which she’s built her business philosophy. “I do not believe in ‘buying’ our jobs,” she is fond of saying. “Our workmanship and professional office staff are valued commodities. That’s why I have worked hard to achieve my goals, both personal and company.”