As a veteran, entrepreneur, and founder of Mitchell Electric LLC, Montaneke Mitchell is committed to creating opportunities for women in skilled trades while building a legacy for her family. Her journey—rooted in resilience, self-education, and community support—led her to establish her business to gain flexibility as a single mother and empower others in the industry. Now, with the Jacqueline Troy Inspired Fund (JTIF) Award, she is expanding her impact, growing her business, and working toward launching a nonprofit that provides women in trades with tools, work gear, childcare, and mentorship.
Looking ahead, Montaneke envisions Mitchell Electric as a force for good, creating jobs and resources in underprivileged communities. “Success isn’t just about business growth—it’s about impact,” she says.
Montaneke Mitchell isn’t just electrifying homes and businesses across Indianapolis; she’s also sparking change within her community. As the founder of Mitchell Electric, Montaneke has channeled her passion for hands-on work and a deep-seated desire for autonomy into a thriving business. Her journey, however, wasn’t without its hurdles.
“I needed control over my schedule as a single mom balancing the demands of union work. I took a chance on myself, combining my love for hands-on work with my passion for community impact.” This powerful motivation fueled her leap into entrepreneurship. Initially, Montaneke possessed the technical skills but navigated the complexities of business ownership blindly. “I had the skills but lacked business knowledge—I was running Mitchell Electric like a side hustle rather than a company. I educated myself using community resources, business cohorts, and podcasts while learning from my mistakes.” This dedication to self-improvement proved pivotal in transforming her vision into a sustainable enterprise.
Now, as a recent member of the Central Indiana Women’s Business Center (CIWBC), Montaneke is already experiencing the benefits of a supportive network. Looking ahead, she sees the JTIF Award as more than just financial assistance. The networking opportunities, she believes, will be crucial in connecting with individuals who share her vision for growth and workforce development in Indianapolis.
Beyond her business success, Montaneke is deeply committed to giving back. Her inspiring plan to launch a nonprofit supporting women in trades stems from her own early experiences. “When I started in construction, I didn’t even have a lunchbox or the right tools—people gifted them to me, and I never forgot that. Now, I want to pay it forward by helping the next generation of women succeed.” Montaneke Mitchell’s journey is a testament to the power of self-belief, continuous learning, and a profound commitment to lifting others as she climbs.
Success story written by and featured in MORE Magazine
