- Keeney’s first post-college job was working as a clerk inside a feather factory.
- nLight’s laser technology can be found in everything from smartphone manufacturing and surgical instruments to military drones and the Mars rover.
- Keeney said that Southwest Washington’s business environment has “far exceeded expectations.” His company started in the Puget Sound area.
- Despite a 15-30 percent industry-wide decline, nLight actually grew through the recession.
- Thanks to the sequester and a confusing regulatory environment, Keeney called the current state of government contracting “a little more than frustrating.”
- His advice for starting a new company: “Have a plan, be rigorous about that plan, and get ready for a wild ride.”
- Keeney uses the game of tennis as an outlet for stress.
- On the importance of communication: “Business is face to face. The Internet supports what we do, but at the end of the day you need to be there.”
- Keeney encourages students to focus on core, foundational skills. When hiring, his company looks for those “who have displayed an ability to learn; students with determination, tenacity.”
- On his work in education: “To attract the best talent you need great schools. If you don’t have a good education, the future is not so bright.” Additionally, he said that community involvement (such as mentoring a student) can energize your employees.
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