Hey all,
Just wanted to get WNY on the 'map' in this forum.

I am in the process of building my first CNC Router. I've learned a lot already from CNCZone and look forward to sharing anything I learn from my machine.

I am also planning to start my first small-business makeing a range of products I have designed with my CNC machine. I hope to grow this into a fully-fledged business able to support me and my fiance. My day job is (was) a Computer Technician/Technical Support. I'm proficient with System Building, Printing Technology, Plotters, Laser Printers. My speciality is Comsumer Electronics, HDTV, Digital Sinage, etc. Any questions there, feel free to PM me. I'm liberal with my advice. :)

I'm self-taught when it comes to working with Plastic/Acrylic. I have also self-taught myself design inside Autodesk Inventor. I have never worked with metal before, or even used a router (gasp!). But, trial by fire, right?

I guess I should also mention, I'm a young-un. I'll be 24 in November. :cool:

Things I could use:
Any advice/tips/tricks about owning your own business. Starting your own business etc.

Any advice/tips with getting started working with metal fabrication.

Any advice/tips/tricks about owning your own business. Starting your own business etc.

Be prepared to work a lot of hours, without making a lot of money. And if possible, have a "regular job" until things get going well.

Be prepared to work a lot of hours, without making a lot of money. And if possible, have a "regular job" until things get going well.

Yeah...I will be keeping my day-job for a while. Well, sorta, just found out Monday that I am getting downsized. So...as of 8/26, I am out of a job. :violin:

Tough luck Javadog, having been in your shoes I know what you are going through. Having been a business owner a couple of times I feel qualified to throw in my 2 cents worth. First thing to understand when starting a new business is that marketing is EVERYTHING. You could find a cure for cancer but if you can't market it you will go broke, period. I think the mind-set of the people that visit this site in one of quaility and believe whatever you produce will be above average products. Do your home work on design and production but dedicate yourself to learning marketing.
Best of luck

Java Dog,
Just wondering how things are going. I'm in the Niagara Falls area of western New York. Have you started the business or did you find a new job yet? I may be able to / or find answers from some other people who have been in those shoes. Let me know if you still need assistance.

Oh my, I forgot about this thread. I managed to get my job back due to some other Techs leaving. So, I had a stay-of-execution. However, I now know just what I am 'worth' to the company - so I am keeping my eyes open.

Javadog, I'm no expert but I'm always willing to help if I can.
I'm located just outside of Syracuse.
E-mail me and I'll give you a call.
DLMACHINING@frontiernet.net

I am currently in the process of a CNC Lathe conversion and I am a college graduate in Machine Tool, I also Run a Mill. I live in Elmira in South Central NY