This year is Matrix Networks 40th anniversary. To commemorate four decades of technological innovation and growth, we wanted to sit down with the founder, David Ness, whose vision and leadership were pivotal from the very beginning. Our interview with David was not only a look back at the challenges and victories but also a vivid portrayal of the personality and principles that have shaped Matrix Networks into the company it is today.
We hope you enjoy the insights and anecdotes of this engaging interview with David Ness, where we learned more about the people and technology that propelled Matrix Networks from a modest venture in David’s garage to a successful company supporting business technology solutions across the U.S.
Question 1: Can you share the story of how Matrix Networks began in your garage?
David Ness's entrepreneurial journey began unexpectedly but not without a precursor of resilience and innovation. Fired just before Christmas in 1984, David found himself at a turning point. Reflecting on those early days, he shared, "A consultant I knew encouraged me—he said I was great and that he never worked with someone as detailed or that did the quality of work I did. He told me that if I started my own business, he’d give me all his business." Armed with a truck, his tools, and a burgeoning reputation for meticulous work, David seized the opportunity to lay the foundation for what would become Matrix Networks.
"It just kind of snowballed," David recalled. "People through word of mouth wanted to work with me. I was fairly social, so word spread." His ability to connect with people not only helped him during those initial challenging times but became a cornerstone of the company's ongoing success.
Question 2: What was the first major challenge you faced, and how did you overcome it?
The early days of Matrix Networks were marked by a relentless pace and a steep learning curve. When prompted with this question, David laughed and enthusiastically answered, “Getting the work done!” David’s commitment to his new company required long hours and personal sacrifices. "I was working 7 days a week, 10-12 hours a day," he said, emphasizing the dedication needed to keep up with demand. The challenge was not just in doing the work but in managing the explosive growth without compromising the quality that had become his signature.
David's approach to overcoming these challenges was rooted in his social skills and ability to mobilize resources quickly. He tapped into his personal network to find anyone who could help, often pulling in favors from friends and acquaintances. "I knew quite a few people, and you know, I'm pretty social. So, I mean, I had a lot of people I knew who could come in and help out," he said.
This period also required creative solutions, such as scheduling installations at night and service work during the day to maximize productivity without compromising service quality. "We did these installations at night, and then I’d do service and minor work during the day."
Question 3: How did Matrix Networks transition from installing phone systems to Enterprise Communications, Network Infrastructure, Connectivity Strategies, and everything else in between?
As technology evolved, so did the services offered by Matrix Networks. David’s interest in new technologies led the company to new heights. "Back then, each telephone required 25 pairs of wires to operate. We had to learn as technology advanced—we moved from those early systems to what we have now, which is so much more sophisticated," David explained.
His proactive approach to learning and adaptation ensured that Matrix Networks was always at the cutting edge, a trait that he believes is crucial for survival in the tech industry. "You either move forward or you die. There wasn’t going to be any more work unless you learned how to do the new stuff," he said, reflecting on the necessity of innovation.
Question 4: What technological advancements over the past 40 years have most influenced the company’s direction?
David Ness recognized early on that the landscape of telecommunications and network infrastructure was prone to rapid and relentless changes; he reflected on how customer needs and emerging technologies shaped the company’s trajectory.
"The influence came from the ground up—sometimes from customers requesting new services, sometimes from our sales team identifying opportunities," David explained.
David highlighted a pivotal moment in the company's history when they began selling internet connectivity solutions. "We became one of the last agents for Pacific Northwest Bell—it was a game changer for the business.” This strategic shift not only diversified the company’s offerings but also significantly enhanced its market position and revenue streams.
He also discussed the shift towards cloud-based solutions, which marked a significant departure from traditional hardware-focused services. "Cloud-based stuff was big; we didn’t have to install it, didn’t have to maintain it. We just provided customer service and received a commission," he said, underlining how these changes reduced operational complexities and opened new opportunities.
Question 5: What qualities in Kyle made you confident he was the right person to lead Matrix Networks into the future?
“Desire. Kyle let it be known he wanted to do that,” David explained, highlighting the importance of ambition and initiative in his decision-making process. However, it wasn't just Kyle's desire to lead that convinced David; it was his alignment with the company's ethos. "‘Do the right thing’ was a phrase that I always used, and knowing Kyle for a long time, I felt that he would continue to do that."
Reflecting on their time together at an important industry conference where they strategized about embracing cloud technologies. "Honesty is gargantuan. The ability to look into the future... It became more comfortable for me to retire after seeing his capabilities first-hand."
David valued Kyle’s practical approach and his ability to relate to both the technical and human aspects of the business. "He had a very smooth way of reading people, understanding people, and relating to people, which is essential in our line of work," David mentioned, emphasizing interpersonal skills as critical for maintaining the company's cherished customer relationships.
Question 6: Looking back, what are you most proud of in Matrix Networks’ journey?
With a sense of deep fulfillment about the company's reputation and the impact it has had on its employees and the broader community, David shared, "We've always been well respected. Customers would tell us that they sometimes chose us because we were the only company that wasn’t bad-mouthed.”
His pride extended beyond the commercial success to the educational contributions he and his company have made. He fondly recalled his time teaching at Clark College and his involvement in the State Apprenticeship Program, where he served on the board for ten years. "I'm proud that we were considered a teaching company. We've taught so many people; not just about the job, but about striving for quality and integrity in their work," David elaborated. "We prided ourselves on true craftsmanship—doing good work, being honest, and teaching a lot of people along the way."
Question 7: If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self at the start of this journey, what would it be?”
David offered sage advice to his younger self and to new employees embarking on their careers, not only in the tech industry. "Work hard and learn. You’ve got to want to learn," he emphasized.
Matrix’s founder articulated the distinction between viewing a job as merely a means to an end versus embracing it as a career—a passion. "People fail when it’s just a job. People seem to really succeed when they care and want it to be a career," he shared, highlighting that the most successful individuals he has worked with are those who immersed themselves in their fields, constantly seeking knowledge and improvement.
His advice extended beyond personal success, touching on the ethical dimensions of business. "Do the right thing," a phrase he reiterated often, serves as a guiding principle for both personal conduct and professional decisions. This ethos, he believes, is crucial for cultivating a positive workplace culture and a reputable business.
To the younger staff at Matrix Networks, David’s message was clear: embrace the opportunities for growth, maintain integrity, and contribute positively to the company’s legacy of innovation and quality. His reflections serve not only as guidance but as a foundational philosophy for the company moving forward.
Question 8: What are your hopes for Matrix Networks in the next decade?
When asked about his hopes for the next ten years, David's eyes lit up with the same fervor that sparked the company's founding in his garage all those years ago. "I hope Matrix continues to do right by our customers and employees," David shared, his voice imbued with the earnestness that has characterized his leadership. "That's been our cornerstone—doing right by people, and it's what I hope continues long after I'm gone."
David expressed a desire for Matrix Networks to remain adaptive and innovative as new technologies reshape the landscape. "We've built something special here," David said, pausing to reminisce. "I've seen technology change a thousand ways since we started. Yet, through it all, our commitment to integrity and quality has never wavered. It’s that commitment I hope guides us through the next decade."
As we close this chapter on our 40th anniversary, we extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has been a part of our journey at Matrix Networks—from our dedicated employees and loyal customers to our founder, David Ness. Your trust, support, and hard work have not only shaped what Matrix Networks is today but also set the foundation for what we aspire to become tomorrow. Here’s to continuing our tradition of excellence, innovation, and integrity. Cheers to the next 40 years of empowering businesses and advancing technology together. Let's keep building a future that, even decades from now, we can all be proud of.