As people across the country prepare to celebrate the 4th of July, formally known as Independence Day in the United States, it has dawned on me how great a celebration it will be this year and should be every year. When referring to Independence Day, most string in various anecdotes about what will be done with their day off like sleep, spending time with family, fireworks, and various cookouts. While all of those things are fantastic and a completely appropriate way to celebrate the holiday, being a part of the Nanolumens team has helped me appreciate the actual reason for this celebration. At my young age I am blessed with the opportunity to authentically experience the freedom and opportunity that all Americans before me have worked for and still work to cultivate. Many see the “Made in USA” designation as a set of standards companies strive to achieve for status or an additional marketing opportunity, but I can say with great confidence that the life force of the United States influences many intangible aspects of Nanolumens.

Nanolumens is still a relatively young private company that prides itself on being innovative and forward thinking in the world of digital visualization, and a designation alone cannot make that true. The record growth the company is experiencing year after year is a result of diligently making sure the company is living up to its “Made in USA” designation as well as carefully cultivating an awesome company culture that is truly the key to its success. This atmosphere was apparent to me within the first few weeks of employment when I saw a truly diverse group of people be able to voicing their opinions and presenting ideas on the directions the company should be moving. This environment allows people of all colors, ages, genders and lifestyles to take ownership and pride in the product they help create and maintain every day.

My participation and affinity for this authentically American and familial team was epitomized at InfoComm 2014 when I, our CEO Rick Cope, and 2 other employees bungee jumped from the Stratosphere Tower (the tallest building west of the Mississippi) in Las Vegas. The excitement that took over the team was evident to anyone that would observe us interacting and enjoying ourselves after a full day of work. The best part was the look of awe on the attendants’ faces when we played the video at our booth the next day of our CEO leading the way as we plunged into the unknown. At that moment I realized this great experience and our company are a product of the good old American spirit, and, like one of fellow jumpers Colin James said “We are the NanoLumeneers!”  This moment was especially significant to me because not only did the words “In God We Trust” keep ringing in my head as I quickly overcame my personal fear of heights, but I also had the other Nanolumeneers  to take the plunge with me. So on this 4th of July I have a memory that reminds me of the greatness of America where ever I choose to celebrate, and I hope everyone has a memory to recall during this celebration.

To all Americans here and abroad, I hope you have a great and memorable Independence Day, and God Bless America.