For several years I was key in the design, build, integration, and evolution of gaming center and casino VR units. We built for arcades conventions and publicly accessible mobile arenas as well. I was lucky enough to live in the SF Bay Area when and where an up and coming company was starting to get off of the ground. I was initially hired to help fabricate an initial design unit and the founders quickly learned of my many other skills. I was put right into the design seat because of my modelling and engineering skills and I revamped the entire build in just about every aspect possible.
I soon became largely responsible for integrating the computer hardware and software components into the units as well. Along the way, due to my intimate knowledge of every aspect of the machines, I additionally became a head liaison on installations with the clients as they could directly have me iterate new design ideas and implement changes with as minimal turn around times as a client could get with such custom units. Our clients had glowing reviews of the ingenuity, solutions, and service we provided. We were given the ability to self-lead, make decisions, and move quickly.
After some time, the company became mismanaged and many of us chose to move on despite their offerings to keep the team aboard. The hands-off approach didn't work when it came to managing the cash-flow for the company and it soon affected paychecks and vendor payments. Startup mentality can be quite fast paced and exciting, but you have to have well-suited and dependable people in every aspect for it to work... no matter how good your product is.
I shall always value the people, experiences, and lessons learned during my time there. It remains my favorite job I've had to date. It was a great test of so many skills paired with a tremendous amount of talented & creative people. I do hope to find another opportunity like this one again and for it to fully realize it's potential with the right members behind it.
