Starting a business can be tough, and expanding one can be even tougher.
Erik Hibbard '16 had always dreamed of opening his own outdoor apparel clothing line, but was not quite sure how to get it started. It wasn't easy, but Salem State provided Erik with the resources and guidance he needed to create and expand Steward Outdoor into a successful business. The New England based startup is now finding a second home in Denver, Colorado.
Making the move out west wasn't an easy choice. The competition in this area is competitive, but Erik is confident that he has a quality product and the business skills he has accrued at Salem State will give him a competitive edge in this new location. Erik attributes much of his success to learning crucial business skills at the Bertolon School of Business. It was here that Erik learned key components, such as finance, law, accounting, advertising, research and marketing.
Many of Erik's professors either currently or had previously owned their own businesses. The advice that they gave Erik over the years has proven invaluable and made the transition a smooth one.
Erik is grateful for the mentorship he received at Salem State, and for the tools and resources that helped make his dream of owning and expanding his business a reality. Erik is living proof that you can take your Salem State education wherever you go.