Casey Hakansson, a 1997 graduate of Douglas High School, has been named technology entrepreneur of the year for his Reno-based company, Moment Skis.
Nevada's Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology gave the award, recognizing Moment Skis' 16 different handmade models, ranging from park trick boards to all-mountain bombers.
"It started as a hobby," Hakansson said. "My friend was making snowboards in the garage, and I bugged him to teach me how to make skis. I developed one prototype, and skied on it for a year. I got a lot of response and started making more skis for myself and friends. From there, it grew in the online community."
Today, Moment Skis works out of a 5,000-square-foot facility, and has carriers all over the western U.S. and Europe, and a team of pro riders advertises the brand.
"We've made over 2,000 pairs this year," Hakansson said. "We're sold out right now, in October, which is crazy."
On being named technology entrepreneur of the year, Hakansson said it was surprising that someone nominated him. He said the award is really indicative of everyone involved in his operation. Hakansson has five employees and a handful of interns, and a partner in Auburn, Calif, who helps with marketing.
"It's not just about an individual, but about everyone who has helped along the way," he said. "It's awesome, kind of rewarding for all the work we do."
So where does the young entrepreneur see himself and his company in another five years?
"Hopefully, we'll be making 10,000-plus skis a year," he said. "We'll keep manufacturing in Reno, keeping it American made, and hopefully we'll get a bigger facility. We want to keep being part of the ski world and the Reno community. We also want to branch out beyond skiing into lifestyle - clothing, off-the-hill items, more accessories."
For more information, visit www.momentskis.com.