Advanced Detection Technology became one of six North Carolina companies to receive the 2018 Governor’s Export Award earlier this year, an annual award designed to recognize a company’s success in increasing international sales.
The Mooresville-based company got its start in 2002 when a U.S. military veteran wanted to develop a video inspection solution that would provide security personnel a real-time view of a vehicle’s undercarriage without placing the individual in harm’s way.
Now, in the beginning of 2019, Advanced Detection Technology is a leading manufacturer of Under Vehicle Inspection Systems designed to help governments, corporations, and military installations around the world decrease threats by increasing entry-point security.
Advanced Detection Technology accepted recognition as Top Small Business Exporter in the 2018 Governor’s Export Awards ceremony held in January at the North Carolina Executive Mansion. Pictured left to right: John Loyack, vice president of global business services for the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC); Jan Zickerman, CEO, and Mancy Malek, director of international sales, for Advanced Detection Technology; and Kuldip Wasson, EDPNC international trade manager.
They have grown by 65 percent over the last fiscal year and export their product to more than 30 countries. On track to double their business this year, Advanced Detection Technology credits the support provided by the EDPNC international trade team for its “explosive growth both domestically and internationally.”
“We are in the show and then tell industry,” said Jan Zickerman, CEO of Advanced Detection Technology. “Being able to show what our cutting-edge product can do in real-world time can make the difference between potential and actual buyer. That’s why working with the EDPNC to attend industry trade shows has made all the difference for us.”
Mike Hubbard, EDPNC international trade director, said other businesses – big and small – can experience that same level of success. All they need to do is tap on the free services provided by the EDPNC international trade team.
“What’s unique about the international trade division is that we have essentially two groups working to help our partners succeed,” said Hubbard. “We have a team of folks here in the U.S. ready to assist with logistical questions like how to navigate trade agreements and language barriers and how to develop a market entry strategy. But we also have folks based in six offices around the world who help make that direct connection with international buyers, easing that transition into the global market for North Carolina-based companies.”
The EDPNC international trade team accompanies North Carolina businesses to trade shows around the world, administering funds that can reimburse their trade show travel costs. They also help companies find new international distributors at trade events. A resource Advanced Detection Technology found instrumental for their growth.
“We are thrilled with the progress our business has made with the help of EDPNC,” said Zickerman. “And we look forward to strengthening our partnership in the future.”