Arturo Diaz credits finding the right people — from one of his first bosses in the U.S. to his banker — for his success since emigrating from Mexico City in 1996.
From his first job sorting potatoes, to owning his own home, and a successful business, Diaz credits God, good people and a little bit of luck have all played a role.
Living the American Dream
“This is one of the best countries in the world. If you come in with a good intention you can live the American dream here truly,” says Diaz, owner of The Pit Stop Auto Repair in Pocatello. “We believe God put these people around me because they help me a lot.”
That includes his former manager from the hotel in Jackson, Wyo., where he worked not long after arriving in the U.S., who loaned Diaz money to purchase his first home. “He opened the doors for me,” Diaz says. “He trusted me.”
Diaz started fixing cars for friends and family and eventually opened his own mechanic shop and restaurant in Driggs, Idaho, in 2000. “I worked mornings in the restaurant and afternoons in the shop,” Diaz recalls.
During that time, he was tapped by the mayor of Driggs to provide representation for the Hispanic community on the Planning and Zoning Commission. “It was a big learning experience,” Diaz says.
In 2010, Diaz’s businesses fell on hard times due to the recession. “A lot of the Hispanic community lost jobs and were living paycheck to paycheck and business was down,” Diaz recalls.
He was tempted to file for bankruptcy, but his banker at the time advised against it. It turned out to be an excellent decision. Diaz eventually sold the mechanic shop for more than double what he paid for the business. The new owners continue to lease the restaurant space to Diaz’s daughter, Noemi.