"The business has...allowed me and taught me to take care of myself."

There's no better time than now to think about what makes your business recession-proof...or what doesn't. Renee Gilmore, president of Firemans Paving Contractors says it was a long road to get from trying to please everyone to doing a few things really well. There are benefits to being in a niche service.

Beyond that, Renee says look for every advantage that's out there. Firemans Paving Contractors has been recognized as a woman-owned business and historically underutilized business, and she says those certifications have opened many doors for them. Companies are often looking to diversify their supply chain.

Learn more about Renee Gilmore and Firemans Paving Contractors at www.firemanspaving.com