Why This Former High School Counselor Became a Fitness Machine Technicians Franchisee

Jesse Rorvig is the franchise owner of Fitness Machine Technicians in Portland, Oregon. He recently spoke with 1851 Founder, Publisher and CEO Nick Powills during his regular podcast, “Meet the Zee.” During the interview, Rorvig recounted his journey into franchising and what attracted him to the fitness machine repair franchise. 

After a decade as a high school counselor, Rorvig decided to change his career path. Moving from Minnesota to Oregon for surfing and snowboarding, he eventually felt the pull to settle down and start a family. Having always had the desire to own his own business, he explored franchise opportunities. 

“I've always wanted to be a business owner,” he said. “I started some businesses in the past. For example, I had a painting business while earning my master's degree. Mowing lawns as a kid was something that resonated with me … So, I was motivated to own a business. I knew I needed something like training wheels, unlike starting a business from scratch as a founder. That's a huge deal, and I wasn't ready for that level of risk. However, I still wanted some creativity.” 

Like many people, Rorvig initially had the misconception that buying a franchise always meant being an absentee owner. However, he soon realized that building a business required more time and effort than he thought. Still, he sought out the challenge. When it came to choosing Fitness Machine Technicians, Rorvig was especially drawn to how the brand was on the newer side. Unlike more established franchises with set formulas, the brand offered room for growth and development. 

“I was in the market for a challenge and to build it myself,” said Rorvig. “The newness, the youngness, and the freshness of Fitness Machine Technicians actually appealed to me. With some of the more mature franchises, they really are more of a plug and play formula … So it's just a matter of what you're looking for.” 

Watch the interview above or on YouTube.