People often ask how Vextrek started. A few years ago, my son and I modified a small electric go kart by replacing the motor, batteries, and other electrical components. In summary, we transformed an 8-mph go kart into a 20-mph vehicle by doubling the motor power and by utilizing lithium ion batteries similar to what are used in Tesla cars. We enjoyed the learning process so much we decided to “scale up” and build a full size go kart. At some point, I thought it would be a good idea to teach my son how to start a business so we incorporated “Vextrek, LLC” as a Subchapter S corporation in the state of Georgia. Our mission is to assemble electric go kart “bolt-on” kits to compete with gas powered racing go karts.

However, this is less of a story about electric go karts as it is about how to learn new things. I am a 51-year government accountant with no formal training or education in electrical engineering. I am completely self-taught and only became interested in electric vehicles a few years ago. Though hours of reading books and watching YouTube videos, I acquired the knowledge necessary to safely assemble an electric go kart.

When I encountered tasks that were above my capabilities, I sought the help of experts. We now hire trained experts for the electrical engineering and software management aspects of our product. In all circumstances, I sought to learn how to do every task myself since I value the learning process as much as the end product. I also involved my son as much as possible. While he was not permitted to work on “high voltage” tasks, he developed expertise in switches and other wiring techniques under close supervision. I also involved him in everything from the selection of our company name and logo to other marketing tasks.

In conclusion, Vextrek is not just a story of a successful business start up in Augusta, GA. It is a story of how you can find happiness at any age if you apply yourself and (most importantly) teach someone you love along the way.

Gary Little, Chief Operating Officer of Vextrek