David Kasinskas
President and Owner
Graphics Systems Corp.
W133 N5138 Campbell Dr., Menomonee Falls
Industry: Business Services/Software
Revenue: $11 million
Employees: 43
When David Kasinskas was laid off from his job in the late 1980s, the engineer decided to strike out on his own. It was a risky move. Kasinskas was launching a business during the same recession that had caused him to lose his job. But he was not deterred.
The deeply Christian business owner says he believes that when God closes a door. He opens a window.
Kasinskas is president and owner of Menomonee Falls-based Graphics Systems Corp. The company provides design software implementation, support and training to clients in the manufacturing, health care, and consumer industries.
The Menomonee Falls firm brought in $11 million in revenue in 2011, and has experienced an average annual growth rate of 20 percent. The company’s staff has grown to 43 employees.
Though the early 1980s recession made for a shaky business environment, Kasinskas says he knew he wanted to work for himself. He began reaching out to potential clients and growing his business through word of mouth.
Kasinskas admits that his experience as an engineer did not automatically transfer into stellar sales skills. Despite the challenges, Kasinskas said the company has fared well over the years. During the Great Recession, the company continued to grow and expand, adding data management, simulation and consulting services to their portfolio.
Kasinskas says he wanted to create a recipe of success, one that would better position the company in the marketplace by emphasizing customer service and collaboration. He also added a training and mentoring program for new employees.
