Haverfield strikes out on his own while studying at FHSU



By DAWNE LEIKER

dleiker@dailynews.net

Singer, student and entrepreneur, Max Haverfield takes customer service to a new level with his business venture, Haverfield Car Washing Service.

A 19-year-old vocal performance major at Fort Hays State University, Haverfield, who graduated from Hays High School, was inspired to start his own car-washing business while involved in a fundraiser for Young Life Camp.

"One guy said he would pay five extra bucks if I would just take it there for him," Haverfield said. "So I thought, 'Why not do that for everybody?' "

The opportunity to set his own hours sparked Haverfield's interest in starting his own business, which he began in September.

Gaining customers from many sources, including co-members of the First United Methodist Church choir, Haverfield calls his clients on a monthly basis -- when the weather cooperates, then if a car wash is needed, he picks up their car, cleans it at a local car wash and returns it to the customer.

In addition to his car washing business, Haverfield sells advertising for his mother's advertising agency and Kansas Living Magazine and sings for weddings and funerals.

"My major is vocal music," he said. "But car washing is much more lucrative than singing right now."

Although Hays has other vehicle detail shops, Haverfield said he offers the additional service of pickup and delivery of vehicles.

"I tried to find something unique to provide people," he said. "My idea is that while you're doing your job, you don't have to waste your time washing your car. ... This is what you're good at and that's what I'm good at, so that's the idea."

After he graduates, Haverfield looks forward to developing his entrepreneurial skills and singing when he can.

"If I become a pop star, I'll probably give up the car washing," he said, laughing. "Until then, I don't mind car washing."