Book Review
Ever wonder why the success rate of start-up companies is so low? In this inspirational and informative book, A Chip Off the Silicon Block: The Power of Entrepreneurial Thinking, entrepreneur Carol Latham demonstrates how the power of sound entrepreneurial thinking can lead to positive results in the most daunting of circumstances. Carol’s company, Thermagon Inc., evolved as an offshoot of the explosive growth of silicon chips driving the computer industry and the information age.
As a woman entrepreneur, Carol Latham defied all the odds by successfully creating the products, the facilities, and the funding for a thriving and much sought-after company, Thermagon Inc., in a world of technology overwhelmingly dominated by men. As computers transitioned from large mainframes, filling whole airconditioned rooms to personal computers, such as desktops, notebooks, tablets, and smartphones, their functionality and speed were dramatically increasing. This phenomenon of miniaturization, combined with increased function and speed, caused overheating of the silicon chips, leading to widespread system failure. Hence, the evolution of the industry designed to manage the heat in electronic systems, of which Thermagon, became a worldwide leader. By sharing her experiences in developing her business and in assisting other start-up endeavors, Carol intends to inspire budding entrepreneurs, working against all odds, by providing guidelines and principles for attaining success. The multitude of personal stories embracing her journey are sure to keep you inspired and entertained.
Author quotes
I developed my own definition of an entrepreneur - someone who can successfully create a business starting with, what I refer to as, the ‘five no’s’ - no products, no physical facility, no employees, no customers, and no money.”
Looking back, I think certain entrepreneurial traits must have been part of my DNA from the beginning.
Real innovation comes from starting with a clean sheet, resisting the temptation to simply tweak what already exists.
About the author
Carol Latham is the retired founder, president, and CEO of Thermagon, Inc., a custom manufacturer of high performance heat-transfer materials for electronic components. Under her leadership, Thermagon changed the microchip industry and, within five years of its launch, achieved sales of $18 million annually. A chemistry major at Ohio Wesleyan University, she went on to work at Sohio Oil Co. when she was inspired to launch Thermagon in 1992. Her ideas about how to keep computers cool were revolutionary, and her invention diffused heat better than anything else on the market. With her help, Intel, IBM, and Silicon Graphics – among others – overcame overheating issues to advance their computing products. She has earned multiple awards for innovation, leadership, and entrepreneurship over the years. She is a member of the Ohio Women’s Hall of Fame and has been recognized for her accomplishments by Inc. Magazine and by the EY Entrepreneur of the Year® program.
Why LoA loves it….
Carol Latham is the epitome of entrepreneurial tenacity and innovation. Since she first took the leap of faith to launch her own business in the toughest of industry sectors, whilst at the same time raising her family, she has demonstrated how the power of sound entrepreneurial thinking can lead to success. Today, she is imparting all those years of experience, knowledge and business insights in this incredible new book, so that the next generation of women entrepreneur innovators can follow in her footsteps. This is a must-read book for any woman who is trying to build a STEM business and find solutions to some of the biggest challenges the world is facing right now. Carol and her significant achievements remain an inspiration today. — Melanie Hawken, founder & ceo Lionesses of Africa