A uniquely American success story.
Watch for the new book, Proving Ground.
What would cause a young African American engineer to walk away from a promising career at the world’s foremost electronics research and development company to start a business, from scratch, in his basement? David Tarver not only did that, he convinced two African American colleagues to join him in that improbable venture. Twelve years later, he negotiated the sale of their company, Telecom Analysis Systems, for $30 million. Tarver’s 
business success was accomplished without the help of angel investors, venture capital, government grants, or minority business development programs. He and his colleagues conceived, designed, engineered, and manufactured sophisticated telecommunications instruments and sold them in more than twenty countries. Along the way, they learned valuable lessons about technology, race relations, and business.
“Proving Ground” traces David Tarver’s journey from ambitious youth to determined entrepreneur to “free man.” The journey began in General Motors boomtown Flint, Michigan, where a young David wondered why his father, an accomplished radio and television technician, only exercised his passion for electronics in the basement of their home. Inspired by his father’s expertise and the civil-rights movement, David resolved to one day start a company that made “electronic stuff.” He wanted to prove that, given opportunities and access his father never had, he could take charge of his career and his life. After college at General Motors Institute and then the University of Michigan, David began his professional career at AT&T Bell Laboratories in Holmdel, New Jersey. After seven years at the amazing Bell Labs, he decided to leave to fulfill his childhood ambition: David finally created a company that made “electronic stuff,” in the basement of his own home.
David Tarver felt he had something important to prove—to himself, to his colleagues, and to society. That is why he was willing to risk everything on a roll of the dice in his basement. His compelling story will inform, motivate, and inspire anyone who has ever contemplated starting a business.
Proving Ground will be released in the first half of 2012. There will be a limited release of signed, numbered hard-cover books prior to general availablility. Please register to receive further information.
The book is outstanding! I wondered if that was my first thought because my uncle is the author. But as I delved into each chapter, I was drawn into the successes (and failures) and the intimate feelings and pressures of a young entrepreneur. As I read, I found myself cheering for David at each milestone of growing the company, feeling bad at each mis-step, and even scolding him for negative thinking.
This biography is a must-read for students, entrepreneurs, and those working in a corporate environment. It is a true success story and motivational tool.
Why thank you Kaam! I look forward to reading about your adventures in entrepreneurship in the future. And thanks for the social media advice and prodding. UDS