IN PROFILE: Robert Wilson

BUSINESS: Mix it up Academy

AGE: 46

BACKGROUND: “I have been teaching martial arts on and off for the past 20 years. I have a second degree brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Robert Drysdale and a certification to teach Muay Thai kickboxing from Thohsaphon Sitiwatjana or otherwise known as “Master Toddy”. I have taught both groups and private lessons in Pahrump for the last seven years. Wilson is currently coaching Brandon Schneider who just won the amateur light-heavyweight title for Tuff-N-Uff. Wilson’s dream is to start a mixed martial arts fight club in Pahrump.”

FIRST JOB: “I worked in construction, starting at age 16 doing stucco with my dad.”

YEARS IN BUSINESS: “I have been in business for almost five years.”

PERSONAL: “I raised seven kids and so I love spending time with them watching them with their sports. I still have four kids at home, a pet pig, chickens and dogs.”

BUSINESS CLIMATE: “The business climate for operating a martial arts gym in Pahrump is difficult but rewarding. I once told another gym owner of my plans to open my academy here in Pahrump and he said, ‘You will soon find out how much you love the business.’ This business is not for everyone, because you have people who will sign up for four months and then will just quit.”