Scott Ramage has just a few months left until he graduates with a Bachelor of Science in Operations and Systems Management from the School of Business and Economics, but that didn’t stop him from celebrating the opening of his new business on February 5. This unique venture is called 906 Vapor, and is an electronic cigarette lounge and vapor bar.
What is an electronic cigarette? Often referred to as an e-cigarette, this personal vaporizer often looks much like an “old-fashioned” cigarette with an LED light on the end. Using one of these satisfies nicotine cravings without most of the chemicals and carcinogens known to typical tobacco products.
Where did Scott find the inspiration to become an entrepreneur before even graduating? He says that he owes some of his success to his dedicated personality, persistence, and of course, the classes he’s taken as part of his undergraduate career at Michigan Tech! The idea for 906 Vapor originally began as a homework assignment for Scott’s Management of Technology and Innovation (MGT 4600) course. His professor, Andre Laplume, encouraged him to keep thinking about ways to make the business into a reality. Scott also drew inspiration from Michele Loughead’s business courses, as well as BUS 2300: Quantitative Problem Solving, taught by Roger Woods.
After graduation, Scott plans to continue his success with 906 Vapor while furthering his education. Perhaps he may even be interested in pursuing his MBA through the School of Business and Economics!
For all of SBE’s young entrepreneurs, Scott offers some advice: “If you have an idea and you believe it will work, take the chance and give it all you have. Even if you fail, keep trying. The experience and knowledge gained can never be taken away from you. It can only benefit you in your future endeavors.”
Do you have an idea for a new business venture? Or have you recently started your own business? Tell us all about it in the comments!