FRESH from completing his national service, Mr Lau Kok Hui (below right) had his sights firmly set on owning and running his own business.
"I had no capital except for an engineering diploma," he recalls. "But with this ambition, I had a very clear focus - to build capital and to master a skill."
He realised his dream in 1992. Armed with six years' experience in the automation industry and $25,000 as his capital, he set up Vector Infotech with a friend to supply products and services to the industrial automation industry.
"This dream has now evolved to become a passionate intent to build a successful business which I wish will continue for many years," he says.
Today, Vector Infotech provides cost-effective, reliable systems and solutions in industrial and data communications technology.
This may involve providing customers - in fields such as electronics, food and beverage, and building and construction - with fibre optic cables, data communications devices and related accessories.
The company, recently identified as one of Singapore's top 500 small and medium enterprises (SMEs), has grown, with 90 employees. Fifty are based here while the remainder are in various parts of Asia.
Starting and sustaining a company take courage and determination, but Mr Lau says the workers are the ones who have contributed to Vector Infotech's growth and success.
He explains: "Running a business is like steering a ship. To sail the ship in the right direction, it has to be tough to withstand stormy weather. The crew must be knowledgeable, dedicated and united.
"My customers and partners are the ship. Our employees and families are the crew. Without their support, understanding and contributions, we would not be where we are today."
Mr Lau has also made it Vector Infotech's business to meet every demand and challenge posed by customers.
He says: "With our ability to anticipate needs and fulfil them with commitment in such a fast-moving, technologically demanding industry, Vector Infotech has made a good name for itself."
Having realised his childhood dream, Mr Lau now has his eye on other achievements.
He notes that there is plenty happening in his fast-changing field and there are numerous opportunities for Vector Infotech to develop and grow further.
"The migration of conventional information technology products and services into industrial plants offers enormous opportunities and challenges," he observes.
"The economic development in the Middle East and Asia has also created numerous opportunities for the international community, including our industry."
The new challenge for an SME such as Vector Infotech lies in developing business processes to ensure competitiveness and continuity, he says.
"We invest a significant sum of our profit back into the business to train people, improve efficiency, expand business and continue innovating to stay relevant."
