From Technician to Owner: Cory Milbrath’s Journey with Abra Body and Glass in Worthington

From Technician to Owner: Cory Milbrath’s Journey with Abra Body and Glass in Worthington

For Cory Milbrath, owning a body shop wasn’t just a business venture—it was a culmination of decades of dedication, hands-on learning, and seizing the right opportunity when it came his way.

Cory had spent nearly 30 years running the body shop under four different dealership owners before a major transition presented itself. When Billion Auto purchased the dealership, the body shop was separated from the sale. Recognizing Cory’s long-standing leadership and experience, the dealership offered him the opportunity to purchase the shop independently. With years of expertise under his belt, Cory made the decision overnight—embracing the challenge of business ownership and taking the reins of what would become Abra Body and Glass in Worthington.

A Lifetime in the Auto Body Industry

Cory’s journey in the industry began right out of high school when he took a job as an apprentice at a body shop. While he never attended vocational school, he was fortunate to learn under a shop manager who had previously been a vocational instructor. Through hands-on training, Cory mastered the craft, transitioning from technician to office management, and ultimately to business owner.

Growing the Business

Since taking over, Cory and his team have focused on maintaining a high standard of service and customer satisfaction. Abra Body and Glass currently operates with ten employees—four in the front office, one detailer, and five in the shop. This includes Cory and his wife, Suzanne, who joined the office team after running an in-home daycare for years. Their close-knit team keeps the business running efficiently, though limited space has posed a challenge for further expansion.

Looking ahead, Cory envisions growth for Abra Body and Glass. While their immediate priority is solidifying operations at their current location, they remain open to the possibility of expanding into other communities once their existing business is fully paid off.

Challenges and Opportunities

One of the biggest hurdles in the auto body industry today is finding skilled employees. With fewer students enrolling in vocational training programs, the pool of qualified technicians continues to shrink. To counter this, Cory and his team actively seek out individuals who have a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn. By training employees on the job, they ensure that quality craftsmanship remains at the core of their business.

The seasonal nature of auto body repair also presents challenges. Harsh winters typically bring an influx of work, and at times, the shop has been booked out for months. A lack of available technicians means turning away potential business—a problem Cory hopes to resolve through future hiring and potential expansion.

The Role of SRDC and the RLF Program

When the opportunity to buy the business arose, Cory wasted no time in seeking financial guidance. He reached out to his banker at First State Bank Southwest, who introduced him to funding options, including the Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) through the Southwest Regional Development Commission (SRDC).

The RLF program played a crucial role in making the purchase feasible by providing gap financing. The process, as Cory described, was straightforward, with clear guidance at each step. Without this support, securing the necessary funding would have been a much greater challenge.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

For those considering starting their own business, Cory emphasizes the importance of dedication and long-term vision. “There were many years where I could have made more money elsewhere, but I had a goal in mind,” he shares. “You have to work hard, prove yourself, and take opportunities when they arise—because they don’t come around often.”

When the chance to own the shop presented itself, Cory had only one night to decide. “I could have walked away from it, but sometimes you just have to take a leap,” he says. “Fear is natural, but you can’t let it hold you back.”

He also encourages employees to take initiative and learn beyond their assigned roles. “If you just clock in and focus only on your specific job, you’ll always be an employee,” Cory advises. “But if you understand how a business works as a whole, doors will open for you.”

Community Commitment

As a locally owned business, Abra Body and Glass takes pride in serving the Worthington community. Unlike corporate-owned chains that change hands frequently, Cory’s ownership provides stability and familiarity for customers. “People like knowing who they’re working with,” he says. “In a small town, that continuity matters.”

Abra Body and Glass remains committed to providing top-quality auto body repair services while looking toward a promising future. With strong community ties, a dedicated team, and a vision for growth, the business is poised to continue serving Worthington for years to come.