Naprotek: Building a Successful EMS in Silicon Valley with a Woman's Touch

Estimated reading time: 9 minutes

Warner: What else do you see as unique challenges in this region?

Badriyeh: Sometimes the speed at which things are going scares me. What is going to happen in the future? Where are we going?

Warner: We live in a brave, strange technological new world, and none of us really know where it's going. Najat, do you have any final thoughts or comments about the required passion, dynamics, or unique challenges presented by being a woman-owned business? Because you are very unique in our industry.

Badriyeh: Trying to win over my first customer without a history and references in this industry was the biggest challenge I faced. I self-funded the business from the beginning. It takes a lot of sacrifice to survive until you receive the first order.

Warner: Do you think that was more challenging because you were a woman?

Badriyeh: I am not sure whether gender played a role in the beginning; that will always be a question in my mind. Is it the same for everyone? I waited three months for the first order and they were the longest in my life, the first two years were challenging in every way; it wasn’t easy to add a vendor, also for the same reason. Although it was a difficult period, it should not scare anyone from taking the step of starting their own business. My advice is to start without fear, do not give up too easily, but be prepared for at least a year of great sacrifice and patience in order to succeed.

Warner: You were ahead of the curve. That doesn't sound like a challenge; that sounds like you did a good job. It’s been a delight to get to know you and learn about your company, and how you're so relationship-driven all around, from your employees, to your customers, and the way you do business is really lovely.

Badriyeh: Thank you.

Warner: Thanks to you also, Liz and Mike, for your experienced insights as well.

Davidson: You're welcome, Judy.

Brown: Thank you. Come back anytime.

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