At 28, Mike Smith and his wife came up with an idea for a company they called AeroCom Inc., a business Internet broker that finds the lowest pricing on the fastest Internet providers for companies throughout the U.S. Fast forward eight years, and it’s now one of the top companies in the industry with hundreds of customers, including brands such as LG and Stamps.com. The company is growing at a double-digit pace, offering its service for free. Revenue is obtained from sales commissions paid by Internet providers.
Before starting AeroCom Inc., Smith was one of the top salespeople in the country for XO Communications, an Internet service provider.
Smith wasn’t always interested in finding faster Internet connections. Before turning to a business career, he played quarterback for San Diego State and later a pro team in Europe.
Smith says that he loves hiring other ex-athletes: “The athletes often have a great track record of time management, leadership and achievement.”
Reference link: OC Metro Cover Story