Dexter's infrared sensors are used in a variety of applications: gas analysis, fire suppression, security systems, environmental monitoring and space exploration, to name a few.

Launched in 1977, Dexter evolved from defense research at the University of Michigan. For many years the company held a monopoly on infrared thermopile detectors and didn't need to promote itself. Yet industry changes brought new competitors and pressure from customers to reduce prices, resulting in flat sales from 2002 to 2004.

In 2005 the founder's son, Robert Toth Jr., was named president and began to re-energize the company, implementing changes that have generated double-digit increases in revenue — and higher profits on units sold. Using the tagline, "We're everywhere it matters," Dexter began aggressively marketing its products at trade shows, on its Web site and through direct mail and e-mail. Toth hired new managers and highly trained engineers to move the company into products with broader opportunities.

Reflecting a shift in culture, new management practices include weekly cross-departmental meetings, open to anyone who wants to attend. The company retains its stellar reputation for quality products, Toth says, and "is now seen as a very cool company to work for and to do business with."

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© 2008 Edward Lowe Foundation.