James Houston; Jim Houston, Director of Operations; and Josh Frede of Gnosys Networks
1. Tell us about your business; and what is your business philosophy?
Gnosys Networks is a 100% veteran owned and operated company. I started Gnosys Networks because I found a real gap in managed services companies. No one was offering high-quality support or virtualization for small and medium sized businesses. The large virtualization software and service providers are focused on government and large corporate clients. Small to mid-size businesses are largely neglected by corporate service providers. We also have a focus on non-profit organizations and provide discounted support rates to help them bring their services to the public.
Our goal is to deliver integrated, long-term IT management solutions to the small and medium sized business community at an affordable price.
Keys to success: Hard work, integrity and fidelity.
2. Why are you passionate about your commitment to United Way’s Community Investment Fund?
I am a strong believer in communities and keeping things close to home. The United Way is too.
3. What is something interesting or surprising that most people don’t know about you?
At 8 years old I watched Larry Czonka drag 5 tacklers 10 yards to score a game-winning touchdown. Since then, I have understood that I can accomplish anything with enough work and determination. As an adult, while running the IT Department for Shoney’s corporation, Larry Czonka was the key note speaker at one of our company gatherings. I had the privilege of sitting and having dinner with my childhood hero and telling him that he had been a huge part of becoming who I am.
4. What would your older self tell your younger self?
Your Father is right about pretty much everything. You should listen to him more.
5. Favorite quote?
“Not even a mighty warrior can break a frail arrow when it is multiplied and supported by its fellows. As long as, you brothers, support one another and render assistance to one another, your enemies can never gain the victory over you. But if you fall away from each other your enemy can brake you like frail arrows, one at a time.”