Machine Minds
Machine Minds - the minds behind the machines! This is the show where we dive deep into the intricate worlds of robotics, AI, and Hard Tech. In each episode, we bring you intimate conversations with the founders, investors, and trailblazers who are at the heart of these tech revolutions. We dig into their journeys, the challenges they've overcome, and the breakthroughs that are shaping our future. Join us as we explore how these machine minds are transforming the way we live, work, and understand our world.
Machine Minds
Episode 59 | Insights in Building a Startup in Hard Tech | Nick Hegeman
In this episode I sit down with Nick Hegeman, co-founder and CEO of PaintJet, to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities in building a startup in the hard tech and construction space. Nick shares his journey from engineering student to franchise owner to founding PaintJet, a company revolutionizing the way large-scale surfaces are painted using robotics.
We explore the realities of a labor shortage in construction, why Nick deliberately chose a practice-run business before launching PaintJet, and how PaintJet's technology reduces waste, improves safety, and increases precision in industrial painting. Nick also dives into the importance of building a strong team, maintaining a growth mindset, and creating a business model that both scales and generates positive cash flow in a challenging market.
This episode is full of valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those looking to break into the hardware and robotics space.
Timestamps:
[02:30] Nick's journey from engineering to entrepreneurship
[06:45] The origins of Paintjet and addressing the labor shortage
[12:00] Assembling the founding team and early challenges
[16:50] Paintjet’s unique business model and customer demand
[22:15] The robotics and technology behind Paintjet
[28:00] Improving safety, reducing waste, and increasing efficiency
[32:40] The importance of hiring the right people for growth
[36:50] Innovations in real-time quality control and the future of Paintjet
[41:30] Addressing concerns about robotics replacing manual jobs
[45:00] Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in hard tech and robotics
More about our guest:
linkedin.com/in/nickhegeman/
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Connect with me on LinkedIn:
linkedin.com/in/gregtoroosian