Type Of Business:
Manufacturers' representative firm
Expertise:
Customer service
Major Product/SVS:
Sale and marketing of frequency controls, RF and microwave components, and assemblies and semiconductors, to the telecommunications, wireless, test and measurement, military and space communities
Favorite Business Publication:
Microwave Journal
Hobbies/Sports:
Playing golf; Spending time with his daughter
Education Degrees:
Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, Northeastern University (1978)
Throughout the duration of your career, what was the one highlight that stood out the most?:
The most gratifying aspect of his career was remembering who helped him out in this business and never forgetting to thank him - Mr. Melvin Field.
Charity:
Susan G. Komen for the Cure
Number Of Years In Profession:
34
Number Of Years In Current Position:
11
What Does He/She Attribute Success To:
He attributes his success to both the good and bad experiences from which he has grown and learned. His ability to adapt to the ever-changing environment and global economy has also helped.
Why did you become involved in your profession or industry?:
He became involved in his profession after starting out in electronic engineering and working in the microwave arena; he saw the potential in selling the equipment and products, and ventured into his own business.
Extended Bio Profile:
Mr. Watkins has been in the telecommunications field for 34 years. Custom and Wireless Sales, Inc., is a small radiative forcing and microwave sales representation company with offices in Northern California. In April 1993, he started this company with sales totaling $1 million; over the last several years the company has merged, brought in new sales engineering talent and increased sales to well in excess of $60 million. The company functions as a sales representative and consultant to small- and medium-sized manufacturers.
Position Responsibilities and Duties:
Overseeing five sales representatives who are employees and one independent contractor; Managing the company, which over the last several years has increased its sales to well in excess of $40 million; Representing small- and medium-sized manufacturers
Awards/Honors:
Domestic Representative of the Year Award, EMC Technology and Florida RF Labs, IMS2011, Baltimore
Where Will You Be In 5 Years:
In five years, Mr. Watkins will continue to grow his company through acquisition.