Gail Mancuso, Partner, Vice President, and ISP General Manager of Mid Island Air Service Inc.
How did you become a small business owner?
My father started Mid Island Air Service in 1946. My brother is now president and I am vice president. I started working for the company after graduating from college in 1976. We are a full service FBO, like a marina for airplanes. We teach people to fly; store, rent and maintain aircraft; sell fuel; and offer charter flights. We have two locations and approximately 50 employees.
Why did you become an NFIB member?
I thought it would be good to be involved with a company that had the concerns of small businesses as their focus. As a large, ‘small’ business with an employee count that fluctuates below to above 50, it’s important to know what rules apply.
In what ways has NFIB helped your small business?
It’s helped clarify questions regarding employee issues and is a place to turn to get answers and contacts.
What’s the biggest challenge that faces NY small business owners like you?
Getting health insurance for employees that they and the company can afford. Also, insurance in general.
What advice would you give NFIB members to make the most of their membership?
Take advantage of the resources they offer—from credit card processing to FedEx discounts. And utilize their contacts.
Many NFIB members are in family businesses, and navigating working with family members can be a hurdle to overcome. Any tips on how you’ve dealt with that?
Dad started the business after the war. Mom helped in the business, then my brother got involved full time a couple of years after college. He made me a partner along with his son (3rd generation) and a loyal employee, Vince. Sometimes working with family is a challenge, but you can’t lose focus on the importance of the business and how we got here.
