SurgiTel is located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and was founded in 1992 as a branch of General Scientific Corporation. With a history in optics extending back to the 1930s, SurgiTel is the first optical equipment company to develop products for medical and dental specialists that focus not only on vision but also on ergonomics. Our patented designs have already helped clinicians in over 40 countries to see, feel and work their best. And, one customer at a time, SurgiTel’s vision is to become the global leader in surgical loupes and headlight technology.
• Founder Q&A
o Who was your first customer and where did you find them?
I think it was a dentist in Ann Arbor around in 1992.
o Where did you find your first employee?
I found my first employee here in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
o Have you promoted an intern to employee status, and if so, how many times have you done it?
We didn’t have many interns, but about five times. We financially support our employees to continue their education at college level. We have sent about 10 employees to colleges such as Washtenaw Community College and Eastern Michigan University. After their completing college, I promote them to higher positions with better salary. Some of them have even Master’s degrees and all the managers in my company are who we supported for their college education.
I believe every company should contribute to its society and this is how we do it. And this company is not only mine but theirs as well. It is their life-long company to work for.
o Where have you turned to find capital to grow your company and which institutions have provided it?
I started it without solid financial status. In the beginning I was struggling hard. I had bank loans many times.
o If you could change one thing about this region, what would it be?
I don’t like tax credit system in Michigan. Industrial property and factory equipment shouldn’t be taxed because they are investment not property.
734.996.0153
77 Enterprise Drive Ann Arbor, MI 48103
info@surgitel.com
http://www.srugitel.com
Written by Tack Yong Kim
The Michigan Korean Weekly
(248)444-8844
http://www.michigankoreans.com
mkweekly@gmail.com
SurgiTel is a premium provider of loupes, headlights and other optical accessories for medical and dental practitioners. Its 70-plus years of experience in the optics industry, its patented designs and partnership with companies like Oakley make it a first choice for clinicians looking for the best in loupe quality. SurgiTel was the first loupe supplier to integrate ergonomics with magnification, delivering both better vision and a more comfortable neck posture, reducing discomfort and fatigue.
