Teen Entrepreneur Builds Cool Venture
by Tanya Marchun, Communication Specialist
GRAND JUNCTION, COLO. - (June 24, 2025) What is one of your most vivid memories from when you were 13 years old? Riding bikes with your best friends, perhaps, or sinking into movie theater seats with family and a warm bucket of popcorn? For 15-year-old Caleb Gerlach, one memory stands out above the rest: a spring break trip to Hawaii that sparked his entrepreneurial spirit.
Before visiting Hawaii, Caleb and his brother often made snow cones during the summer and sold them outside their grandparents’ business in Fruita. During his visit to Hawaii, while taste testing delicious shaved ice at various store fronts, Caleb realized that he wanted to go bigger with a mobile food truck. After returning to Colorado, Caleb and his dad, Jeremy, constructed a flatbed trailer into the vibrant green and blue Co&Snow food truck it is today. The project took several weekends but affords Caleb the opportunity to dish up his shaved ice at events across the Western Slope.
As a teenager Caleb has quickly learned responsibility, time management, and many other valuable lessons. During construction he worked closely with Mesa County Public Health to ensure approval of his food truck. He sought appropriate food safety training and licenses. Caleb knew there would be challenges such as tackling taxes and payroll as he pursued his dream, but they fuel his drive for success. “The biggest lesson I have learned is the importance of perseverance and adaptability. There have been many challenges along the way, but each setback has taught me something new and pushed me to keep going,” he said.
Over the past two years, when he was not in school or riding his bike, Caleb poured every ounce of time into running his business. “I’ve been fortunate to have support from my family,” he said. “My dad helped my dream come to life, and my mom, Kim, goes to the store to gather supplies.” Whether it is brainstorming new ideas or managing during the busy season, Caleb’s family continues to encourage his dreams. That’s something Caleb wants to share. “I want to inspire other young people to pursue their dreams and not give up on them,” he said. “My advice would be to start small, stay focused, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Every mistake is a learning opportunity.”
While you are out making new memories this year, visit Co&Snow for their most popular flavors: tiger blood, blue raspberry, and pina colada. Co&Snow, named for Colorado Snow Cones, often sets up shop at festivals throughout the grand valley, including the Mesa County Fair, Fruita and Palisade Farmer’s Markets, Food Truck Fridays, and the Palisade Peach and Fruita Fall Festivals. You can follow Caleb and Co&Snow on Facebook or check out his website.