Some Experiences Gained in Starting and Growing Optical Companies – James C. Wyant

Date: Thu. April 18th, 2013, 4:15 pm-5:15 pm
Location: Rockefeller 301

This talk will describe some experiences gained in starting and growing two optical companies, WYKO Corporation (1984-1997) and 4D Technology (2002-present). Both companies designed, manufactured, and sold computerized interferometric systems for the measurement of surface shape and surface roughness. Founding, growing, and cashing out of WYKO was an unbelievable experience that was more fun than I ever dreamed anything could be. It was so much fun I felt I had to do it again. Both the fun parts and the not so fun parts for both WYKO and 4D will be discussed. The biggest surprises experienced and what I think are the most important factors in growing a successful high-tech company will be described. The technology for the products of both companies will be described.