Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/110509
Gerry Shaw Alachua-based EnCor Biotechnology Inc. makes high quality antibody reagents which are used mostly in research laboratories and have some utility for patient diagnosis and drug discovery. Education: B.S. in Zoology, University College London; Ph.D. in Zoology, King���s College London Inspiration: I first got inspired by how surprisingly easy it was to make money from antibodies. I started making them to do my own research, but soon found out that people were quite happy to pay good money for them. Owner & CEO EnCor Biotechnology Inc. www.encorbio.com Career goals: My initial goal is to grow the company to become a major player in this area. I also have some ideas about potential spin-off companies. Best advice: Probably setting up a lab in the Sid Martin Biotechnology Incubator, though I forget who advised me to do that. Generally speaking I listen to people but don���t take too much advice, relying on my own research more than what other people think. Accidental discovery: Several as a matter of fact; all of my most significant scientific findings made in my university research lab were accidental. Barry Tyler Based in Sarasota, American Photonics manufactures high power CO2 and precision infrared optics. The company is capable of prototype quantities and high production of optical materials and also provides coating services for 3��m to 14��m wavelengths. Education: B.S. in Aerospace Engineering, University of Virginia Inspiration: The second-largest manufacturer in the CO2 industry was acquired by the industry���s largest manufacturer, creating a competitive void and showing us a market for long term stability. We started a manufacturing facility from scratch complete with the latest optical fabrication technology. Vice President American Photonics Company www.americanphotonics.com Biggest challenge: Providing CO2 and infrared optics that are truly produced in America. Though the market share leader is in the U.S., much of their production occurs in Asia. We are dedicated to keeping all our operations here, thus the name American Photonics. Favorite quote: ���Power is not alluring to pure minds.��� ��� Thomas Jefferson Best advice: Do it the right way, all the way, and with a happy heart. Career goals: Continue building a successful optics company that is technology driven and customer based. 52 fht_faces_2013.indd 52 florida.HIGH.TECH 2013 2/12/13 1:29 PM