Student Spotlight: Caitlin 

A Trailblazer in Entrepreneurship and Online Education 

Caitlin didn’t just manage the impressive feat of juggling full-time education with working at her family’s antique store, Sugar Mill Antiques and Vintage Depot; she’s also a burgeoning entrepreneur. In December 2024, Caitlin graduated early from high school at Pikes Peak Online School, an accomplishment made even more remarkable considering her extensive commitments outside the classroom. 

Caitlin’s journey with Pikes Peak Online School started over seven years ago, following in the footsteps of her brothers, EJ and Kyle. Her decision to transition to online learning came from a need for a learning environment that accommodated her active and unconventional schedule—something traditional schools could not offer. Caitlin found the brick-and-mortar schooling system restrictive, and Pikes Peak Online School provided the freedom she yearned for, allowing her to balance her education with her burgeoning responsibilities in the business world. 

During slower business hours at the antique store, Caitlin could often be found catching up on her studies. This flexibility is something she deeply valued about Pikes Peak Online School, especially as she ventured into entrepreneurship. With the guidance of her mother, a successful business owner herself, Caitlin and a close friend started NOCO Suds and Scrubs, LLC in May 2024. This venture isn’t just a car detailing business; it’s a testament to Caitlin’s ambition and her community’s spirit, as NOCO stands for Northern Colorado, the area the business serves.  

Caitlin’s days are a blend of marketing, networking, and hands-on work with NOCO Suds and Scrubs. The business has quickly gained traction, providing luxury car detailing services within a one-hour drive radius from her hometown. Caitlin manages all the marketing efforts, leveraging social media platforms like Facebook to engage with customers, schedule appointments, and provide quotes. Despite the demanding nature of this work, Caitlin ensures quality and a personal touch by going to customers’ houses, introducing herself, and beginning the detailed work that has come to define NOCO Suds and Scrubs. 

The support from her counselor, and her teachers at Pikes Peak Online School has been invaluable in this journey. Caitlin describes Mr. Romero as “phenomenal” and praises her teachers for their support and the strong relationships she has built with them. Her academic journey was further enriched by taking extra courses, allowing her to graduate early and fully dive into her entrepreneurial pursuits. 

Aside from her business and studies, Caitlin enjoys a vibrant home life filled with pets and hobbies. She spends her free time riding and showing horses, an activity that reflects her country living lifestyle complete with a barn and arena. Her days often involve quality moments with her pets, including Lulu, an 11-month-old puppy, Mimosa, a 2-year-old dog, and Bella, the 13-year-old family dog. 

Looking ahead, Caitlin has ambitious plans for her businesses. She recently started her second business, “The Friendly Fern,” and plans to expand NOCO Suds and Scrubs to include vehicle wrapping and tinting. The seasonal nature of car detailing means that during the winter months, Caitlin plans to apply her skills at local dealerships, ensuring her detailing prowess is utilized year-round. 

Caitlin exemplifies the modern student entrepreneur, seamlessly integrating her education, passions, and entrepreneurial ventures. Her story is not just inspiring but a compelling case study of how flexible online education like that offered by Pikes Peak Online School can serve as a catalyst for personal and professional development. Caitlin’s journey is just beginning, but her future is undoubtedly bright, marked by the promise of innovation, dedication, and unwavering spirit. 

Inspired by Caitlin’s story? Take the first step towards your own success with Pikes Peak Online School. Our flexible and supportive learning environment can help you balance education with your passions and entrepreneurial goals. Visit our website to learn more and start your journey today!