Today we’d like to introduce you to Ben Pouladian.
Ben, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I was raised in Los Angeles, California, and attended the University of California, San Diego, where I explored technological advances in LED lighting and graduated with a degree in Electrical Engineering. I then moved to San Francisco where I worked for several top technology firms, gaining extensive knowledge in manufacturing automation. I started Deco Lighting in 2005 with my cousin, Sam Sinai, intent upon developing cutting-edge LED technologies for the lighting industry. Today, Deco Lighting is a leading provider of innovative lighting solutions, with a three-year revenue growth of 387%. Our current focus is on marrying lighting technologies with the Internet of Things (IoT) in Solid State Lighting as well as developing digital lighting platforms that use Power over Ethernet (PoE). I have been recognized as one of the leading voices in the lighting industry and hold numerous industry-changing patents. Being pioneers in the world of wireless connectivity, we have developed DecoTune™, a Bluetooth interface that delivers human-centric lighting capabilities optimal for use in schools and hospitals. Sam and I decided to make DECO a Made in America Company, building custom, technology-driven lighting products for an ever-evolving market. We have been compared to Silicon Valley’s top tech firms for our unique culture and creative environment. The ability to gain the respect and recognition of prestigious publications such as Forbes Magazine, Los Angeles Business Journal, Ernst and Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year, and Inc. 5000, as well as his membership in Young Presidents Organization (YPO) shows the magnetism of our company in the LED lighting industry.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
LA has always been a hot bed for entrepreneurship. Its proximity to ports and the rapid growth of industry after World War II mixed with the spirit of the film and television industry has created a culture where people are always looking for the American Dream, the next big thing and opportunity. In Southern California a sole proprietor has a shot whereas in Silicon Valley your only hope is through venture capitalists. Los Angeles has a history and spirit of risk-taking and that keeps the business community here fresh and exciting. The challenges are obvious. Los Angeles is expensive, the cost of living is high and fair wages are difficult to come up with capital for. But that being said, I still want to do business here. My partner Sam and I want to give back to our community and create jobs in Los Angeles. This is our home and we want to create a thriving business that offers people stability. The challenges we face really lay in finding the right people who can join our team and fit the culture. We have faith that with the right team we can design superior products, oversee their manufacturing and ship high quality items that enhance the lives of Americans both as employees of our company and as consumers. Is it cheaper to manufacture in China? Sure. But by doing this business here in Los Angeles we can be sure that what we do is quality controlled and benefiting our community.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Deco Lighting is a leading manufacturer of innovative LED lighting fixtures and systems for the commercial, municipal, and utility markets. Based in Commerce, California, we aim to Digitize Your Light™ by offering the latest in energy-saving lighting products and integrated smart control systems prepared to connect to the Internet of Things (IoT). With the launch of our premier Vector series, DECO is taking over the high-end architectural luminaire space and getting ready to roll out fresh, design-driven luminaires to meet the demand for quality, high performance luminaires from architects and lighting designers. Continually winning industry awards and patents for our unique US-made products and designs, at Deco Lighting we utilize the latest and most advanced lighting technologies to improve lighting quality, increase efficiency, and sustain the environment. Partnered with leading LED manufacturer Nichia, Deco Lighting offers the only ten-year warranty with labor in the lighting industry.
Recent Developments and Industry Recognition
- Chosen as a Technology Partner for the Los Angeles Better Buildings Challenge (LABBC), a U.S. Department of Energy initiative to support property owners and managers in executing cost-effective building performance upgrades
- Introduced Select-a-Watt adjustable drivers with a temperature rating of 95°C
- Released the Gladetino LED Area Lighting Solution, delivering up to 146 lumens per watt of DLC Premium qualified performance
- Named as one of the Top 100 fastest growing companies in Los Angeles in 2016 and 2017 by the LA Business Journal Deco Lighting® is a registered trademark and Digitize your light™ is a trademark of Deco Lighting, Inc.
What is success to you? How do you define success?
I personally define success as helping others to reach their best selves and winning. I want everyone to come together and win, and to help facilitate that is enough success for me. I love Sam’s positive attitude and energy. Also, I admire his quest for innovation.
Contact Info:
- Address: 2917 S. Vail Ave Commerce, CA 90040
- Website: getdeco.com
- Phone: (310)366-6866
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @GetDeco
- Facebook: @GetDeco
- Twitter: @getDECO
Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
