From Maui Boat Captain to Powder Coating Innovator
Ross Scott set out to solve the seemingly endless process of metal degradation not only on the boats he sailed but for every man’s daily challenges. He’s bringing new finishes to the powder coating industry and new opportunities to Hawaii businesses and residents.
In Hawaii, everything around us is subject to rapid degradation because of climate extremes like UV sunlight and salt air. Nobody knows this better than Ross Scott, the owner of Maui Powder Works who has been in the restoration business his whole life.
How it all started
The restoration process was an endless challenge as Scott transitioned from a master of the sea to a master of powder paint. Liquid paints have slow dry times, are subject to surface rejection, and require endless primer coats. “I was frustrated with painting liquid paint on metal” he shared, “I knew there had to be a better way.”
In 2004, he started researching solutions. “Ever the ‘do it yourself-er’ I was seeking a new way to achieve that perfect metal finish, that’s when I found out about powder coating,” explains Scott.
Powder coating was mainly known as a commercial service and often reserved for large industrial projects. Large ovens meant small projects had big costs and long wait times. Scott saw an opportunity. He built Maui’s first powder coating shop specifically designed to serve customers at all levels with unique oven configurations and multiple oven sizes.
As a Maui resident for nearly 40 years, it means a lot to Scott to work with his local community. Collaborations with top welders and contractors in Hawaii has given this local company a chance to play a role in big public projects.
Chances are you’ve been to some of these spaces like the Whaler’s Village in Kaanapali, The International Market Place in Waikiki and the Kapa Bar & Grill in Wailea. Scott shares, “When you see your work in a public space, it brings a sense of pride and contribution to the community.”
What sets them apart
What really sets Maui Powder Works apart is their innovative finishes. Scott brings decades of restoration experience with faux finishes to the powder coating industry. This empowers Maui Powder Works to offer never before seen powder applications like anodized bronze and patinas perfect for gates and railings.
“I built this company from the ground up so that I can provide my customers the quality finishes that I wanted for myself.” Scott disclosed.
Since 2010, Maui Powder Works has been a thriving sandblasting and powder coating business with a home base in Maui and serving all islands.
More on this Green Business
Their projects range from everyday projects like custom rims and railings to large-scale commercial projects like the trellised lower level shopping area at Whaler’s Village. Some of their clients include local businesses like Air Maui, Atlantis Submarines, CheeseBurger in Paradise, Padilla Designs and Pitzer Construction.
The company sponsors Maui Raceway Park and will soon partner with local schools to offer educational opportunities for students.
One of the newest members of the Maui Powder Works crew is Ravin AhPuck, a 2015 Lahainaluna graduate.
“Joining the team at Maui Powder Works was a full hands-on experience. When I get to do custom colors and it turns something from an eyesore into a work of art, I’m amazed. Each piece we powder coat gives it a totally new life!” AhPuck commented.
What’s next
What’s next for this fast-growing company? We’re going to offer a series of video tutorials so that other custom applicators can learn these techniques to expand their skill set and scale their business.
“By sharing our coater effects and our story we can inspire others to build on their success”, said Scott.
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About us
RossKote is committed to sharing their experience in metal coatings, painting, and restoration so customers & powder coaters can navigate the process of powder coating and make the best choices for getting their projects done.
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