Through
the years, GSI has enjoyed many successes – and encountered a
few bumps in the road as well, like we all do. One of
the best stories is also one of our first.
It was the summer of 1983. Preparation was underway for the
installation of a mammoth sign on top of the Wachovia building
in downtown Greensboro, NC. Wachovia was GSI’s biggest client
at the time and everyone was excited. Rob Kisstoth, now owner
and president of GSI, was new to GSI as a designer/draftsman
at the time and had helped to design the structure --drawing
out every angle and bolt in detail. An audience of colleagues,
clients and friends had gathered. A major intersection was blocked
off in all directions and two huge cranes in the center of the
intersection had the signs strapped down to a large flat bed
trailer for off-loading.
As the crowd watched the events unfold and the crane began to
lift the first sign, it became frightfully clear that one strap
was not secured correctly. Before anyone could do anything the
crane had lifted the sign on one end -- and suddenly keeled over
and fell sideways into the street. The noise was tremendous as
all that aluminum and steel hit the street … neon glass breaking
into a million pieces and rolling down the street!
Despite this misfortune and being new to the business, Rob saw
a vision. By the summer of 1989, Rob bought the company and became
President.
GSI only had 12 employees in 1983; we now have 35.
Some of the same principles Rob learned and benefitted from back
in the summer of 1983 are still at the forefront of what GSI
is all about today.
“GSI’s strategic
goal is to provide quality signage products & services
for niche markets. To create a place where there’s an opportunity
for anyone who has the passion and commitment to learn and grow
to fulfill their potential and dreams both professionally and
personally. To exceed customer expectation through attentive
customer interaction, superiorly designed products and motivated
professionals.”
– Rob Kisstoth |
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| GSI
Team, 1983; Rob Kisstoth, far right. |
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HISTORY
