In the past year, Kristi Alford-Haarberg, a Hall of Fame Titan 100, said that she has cultivated her leadership abilities in a way that not only helps her grow as the CEO of E2 Optics but also as an individual. “Through the Titan program, I have been able to learn from other CEOs on how to best motivate my team in a way that not only benefits the company but also each individual team member,” said Alford-Haarberg. “I seek to continuously be a positive influence in my company and the industry in which we work.”
Alford-Haarberg said her approach has always been to foster an environment that encourages entrepreneurship and the free flow of communication amongst her team. This year, through this approach, she was able to have candid discussions with her senior leadership team which has led to some very vital processes and procedures coming into play at the company.
E2 Optics is an award-winning technology integrator headquartered in Denver and founded in 2010. The organization helps clients deploy solutions using the company’s expertise in cabling, networking and contemporary multimedia communications.
The culture and core values are what Alford-Haarberg attributes to the success of the firm and what sets it apart from other companies. A team player, Alford-Haarberg can be found on job sites helping to coach, mentor and express her gratitude. “I’m a hands-on leader who treats employees with the same sense of family that the business was founded upon 14 years ago,” she said. “Family is a crucial, underlying core value that we embraced early on.”
A motivating and positive culture has allowed the company to continue to grow significantly. Looking forward, Alford-Haarberg said she sees E2 Optics doubling revenues and reaching $300 million in revenue in the next five years. “E2 Optics has solidified its role as a major industry player and go-to company for building hyperscale data centers and low voltage infrastructure implementations for traditional business,” she said. The firm is also contemplating acquisitions to add new capabilities to the company’s service portfolio.
“Beyond business growth, I want E2 Optics to remain a pioneer for women and diversity within the industry while playing an important role with Women in Construction, attracting women to the industry and advocating for equality in opportunities within an industry that benefits from increasing interests in diversity,” said Alford-Haarberg. “I continually encourage partners to embrace this perspective, while challenging women to find entrepreneurial opportunities that support the industry.”
