Timothy J. Costello, Chairman and CEO of Martins Software & Automation, Inc tells us about his journey, and how it takes inspiration, determination, and even a little aggression to make sure you do everything you can to reach your goals. Here we have interviewed him to get a little more insight into his life as an entrepreneur and what makes his organization different from others.
Tell us about yourself?
I grew up in a strong military family. I am patriotic to my country, respect other people’s views, and enjoy extreme challenges. All of this was taught to me from a very young age. I am an ex-Air Force Fire Protection Specialist, a serial investor, and an entrepreneur.
What makes your organization different than your competitors?
We do not give up and work through even the toughest challenges. We have built an amazing company with a shoestring budget. We focus on intellectual assets, patents, trademarks, value, and effective ROI, etc.
How much potential market share can you achieve in the next 3 years?
We are in several sectors, and we anticipate at least 30% of the market share in automated heavy vehicles, tractors, and advanced fourth generation software. We anticipate holding such a large share of the market because we created a system for guys like me who are not technical, or technology inclined.
What is the recent book or article that you have ever read?
I read Black Holes: The Reith Lectures by Stephen hawking
What are the best and worst purchases you have ever made?
- The best purchase I have ever made was buying several domain names that have since increased in price.
- The worst purchase was an expensive jacket that tore within two weeks
What takes up too much of your time?
Martins and my other businesses.
What three pieces of advice would you give to college students/new startup business owners who want to become entrepreneurs?
1. Find a loyal and talented executive/advisor that you can trust.
2. Find and build products that change the world for the better. As they say in the movie Robots, “find a need and fill a need.”
3. Always be available to your employees and clients.
Who has impressed you most with what they have accomplished?
Steve, an old friend from school, started his heating and air conditioning business with a little bit of savings and a small loan. He did this when central A.C. was new and most people could not afford it. His business was considered a very risky investment, but he saw a need and filled it. Since he was the first in our area to do this, his company grew exponentially.
Tell us about something you are proud of – about your greatest challenge.
My greatest challenge and what I am most proud of is my successful transition from military to civilian life. I opened my first business as a newbie and then I opened my second business, both of which included negotiating with vendors and finding equipment at below cost. This took a lot of leg work, sweat equity, traditional advertising, and word of mouth. However, I was successful in building a brand.
How should people connect with you?
Send your inquiries to [email protected]
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