MOMumental Ms.: Pamela Fitzerman

Our first MOMumental Ms. is Pamela Fitzerman, a 22-year-old entrepreneur who is following her passion for martial arts.

Tell us about your business.
 
I am the franchise owner for USA Martial Arts Leadership Academy in North Frisco (at southeast corner of Teel Parkway and Main Street).  We are in the business of changing kids lives through martial arts. We have a proven track record of improving self-confidence, self- discipline, self- defense, and physical fitness in a fun and educational atmosphere.
 
You are very young to be a business owner.  Tell us about your journey.

I’ve been involved in martial arts for as long as I can remember. When I was four years old, I began my journey into the martial arts world, and I earned my 1st degree Black Belt at age 11.  That’s really when I decided I wanted to own a martial arts studio when I grew up.  So, while living in Dallas, I spent my time outside school training in martial arts and eventually even teaching classes.  

I went to the University of Oklahoma in Norman, Oklahoma and graduated with a degree in Health and Exercise Sport Sciences and Sociology.  The entire time, I planned and saved for opening my own studio.  I had trained for years (since I was 6 years old) with the President of USA Martial Arts & Fitness, James Boecker, so I when I graduated I went to work at the Allen location.  This was great training on the business side of owning a studio, and I got some good lessons on what it takes to run a successful business.  I never dreamed I’d be able to own my own facility so soon, but opportunity came to convert an existing martial arts studio in Frisco to a USA Martial Arts location.

Now, as a second degree Black Belt, I feel I’ve got a tremendous amount of talent and knowledge to share with students.  I’m still studying – training for my third degree Black Belt and I also have a first degree black belt in Traditional Martial Arts Weapons.   

She is excited to opportunity to share her passion for martial arts with students of all ages
 

What was the biggest surprise you have had since getting into this business?
 
The biggest surprise, and the hardest thing as well, is how much I needed to prove myself to the students and most of all the parents.  I had to show the parents that I am a qualified Martial Artist and can run a business as well.  I thought the take over would be easy, and that everyone would embrace me with open arms.  I guess that shows how naive a 22-year old can be!  Taking over this school was the hardest thing I have ever done.  I’ve had to prove myself time and time again that I am qualified and equally if not better prepared than the previous owner.  Being a female in a male dominated industry is an honor, but also a challenge. I feel like I must work harder, be smarter, and run faster than the people around me.  I know that I must work hard everyday because I can lose everything as fast as I have earned it!
 
 
That does sound challenging.  Are the rewards worth it?    

Oh, yes.  The best thing about being a teacher of the Martial Arts is changing lives of my students.  I have had many students who have come to our school that were painfully shy and insecure with themselves.  That is what is great about martial arts because not everything has to be done as a group to succeed – you can go at your own pace.   I have done many martial arts lessons in my office because the child was too scared to come on the mats.   However, once we had the chance to work together, the child felt more comfortable with their surroundings and they were finally able to step foot on the workout floor. It is amazing to see that after time and effort the students become more confident and begin to feel better about themselves. 

What does your typical day look like?

As a small business owner I have the privilege of being the “chief cook and bottle washer”.  I am the first to arrive and the last to leave.  I would not have it any other way.  In the morning I handle all paperwork and business matters.  By early afternoon it is time to be on the mats teaching.  By 9 PM, I am getting ready for the next day.  As much as we are a Martial Arts school — we are a customer service business.  If I do not satisfy my customers — they will go somewhere else.  
 
 

What are your plans for the future of this business?  What goals do you have for it?

Just like all business owners, I want to grow my Academy. I’ve been very fortunate to see enrollment increase every month.  Many business people are always focused on opening that next location; expand into a new community.  Right now I’m just focused on growing at my own location in North Frisco. 

The one “extracurricular” thing I’ve been doing is exploring creating a program for our school to work with underprivileged children. One of the best attributes of our program is the building of self confidence and self worth.  With this power, you are unstoppable, and I would love all children to have access to such a great boost to their self esteem regardless of their economic situation.

What are your big hobbies and interests outside of work?
 
I love spending time with family and friends, but honestly the most fun I have is training for my next black belt!

Anything else you’d like to tell our readers?

Your readers are mostly parents, so I would tell them to encourage their kids if they show a strong interest in something.  I always had the encouragement and support of my parents and this made all the difference to me.  And now I’m 22 years old and living my dream!  I have the privilege of working not only with amazing students but their families as well.  I get to live my dream every day, and that is not something most 22 year olds get to do.  My start all came because my parents believed in me and helped me achieve my goals.