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Doug Altenbern’s story is a testament to the power of curiosity, adaptability, and a good dose of serendipity. He began his career in the decidedly un-digital world of mop manufacturing, but a chance encounter with an aptitude test revealed his hidden talent for programming. This sparked a lifelong passion for computers, leading him through a whirlwind journey of self-discovery and entrepreneurial success in the nascent computer services industry.
Altenbern’s path to programming was paved with unexpected turns. Who would have thought that taking a typing class in high school would be the key to unlocking his future in the Air Force and later as a coder? His keyboard skills, honed alongside 20 girls in his class, proved invaluable in the male-dominated world of early computing.
Altenbern’s enthusiasm for programming shines through in his interview. He describes the joy of writing code, the excitement of testing programs on borrowed computers at a local bank, and the immense satisfaction of building a career in a field he truly loved.
With a wife and growing family to support, Altenbern took a leap of faith when he left the security of his corporate job to start his own computer service bureau. Armed with little more than a phone and a desk in his bedroom, he began building his business, fueled by passion and a belief in his own abilities.
The road to success wasn’t always smooth. Altenbern faced challenges, including a recession and the pressure of quarterly earnings reports. He candidly shares his experience of navigating the “valley of despair” when his company’s stock plummeted. But his resilience and strategic thinking helped him turn the tide and lead the company back to profitability.
Looking back on his remarkable journey, Altenbern offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs: specialize in one thing, become an expert in your chosen field, and know your customer’s business better than they do.
Doug Altenbern’s story is an inspiring reminder that sometimes the most unexpected paths lead to the greatest rewards. His passion for computers, coupled with his willingness to take risks and learn from his mistakes, paved the way for a successful career and a lifetime of fulfilling experiences.
