Imagine having night vision and infrared camera technology in the palm of your hand. It may sound like something reserved for sci-fi or spy movies, but one Maryland company is working to make it as convenient and affordable as a smart phone.
FLIR, which is based in Oregon, moved its Integrated Solutions group to Elkridge, Maryland in 2009. According to Roger Wells, vice president of operations, the company's Maryland team is working to "develop unique solutions to complex operational problems."
"We work with customers to package our technology in a way that is usable and supportable in the real world, whether you're a soldier in Afghanistan, a border control agent or anyone charged with protecting critical infrastructure," Wells said.
But according to Wells, FLIR's customer base extends well beyond military and law enforcement. Outdoor enthusiasts are taking advantage ohandheld personal thermal camerasto track wildlife and plumbers are using theFLIR ONE infrared smartphone accessoryto locate pipes behind walls and under floors.
"What we're really trying to do is make infrared a lifestyle type of technology," he said. "This used to be a technology that was in the domain of military and could only be afforded by high-end customers with a lot of money. We've invested many years into bringing this technology to a point where it makes sense for personal, commercial and industrial applications."
Wells describes the company's decision to bring operations to Maryland as "phenomenally successful."
"When we started operations here in Maryland in 2009, we had a handful of people in a borrowed conference room totaling no more than 150 square feet. Since then, we've grown to an organization with 150 people and recently expanded to 110,000 square feet of general purpose, engineering manufacturing and production space," he said.
Company partnerships also support more than 100 small-and medium-sized businesses across the State.
"Maryland is such a great place is that it allows and promotes that type of growth. It's conveniently located with a diverse customer and business base. It's got a robust infrastructure with a strong stable economy that focuses on true innovation and scientific development, which is ideal for a company like mine that integrates a bunch of technologies," he said.
"I don't think you'll find a stronger workforce anywhere else in the United States, or the world for that matter. It's diverse; it's highly skilled, very educated and very motivated," he added.
According to Wells, governmental resources have also played a role in FLIR's growth.
"We've got supportive, energetic and active government at all levels, and that includes support organizations, like theMaryland Department of Business and Economic Development, that work tirelessly to develop and promote Maryland businesses, not only new and growing businesses, but also businesses with a long Maryland heritage," he said.
"With all of those factors, it's just the perfect place to locate and start a business," he added.
Wells advises fellow Maryland business leaders to get involved in the State's support community.
"Get active. Get out there and talk to your local and State representatives. Talk to members of organizations that help promote business in Maryland and let organizations like DBED help you. Become an active promoter of not only your business but all Maryland businesses. The more stable our State's economy, the better it is for all of us," he said.
