Curt Nichols

Curt Nichols is the founder and CEO of Glade Optics, a company that specializes in ski goggles, helmets, and eyewear for the outdoor mountain community.12 He founded the company in 2016 as a side project while working at a market research firm in Boston.1

Career Background

Before starting Glade Optics, Curt had a career in market research:

• Senior Researcher at Capstone Partners (2015-2016)
• Senior Research Associate at Forrester (2014-2015)
• Research Associate at Forrester (2013-2014)2

His experience in market research helped him develop skills in market strategy, branding, and advertising, which he later applied to his own business.1

Education

Curt holds a BSBA in Finance and Marketing from the University of Richmond (2009-2013). He also attended Noble and Greenough School from 2004 to 2009.2

Founding Glade Optics

Curt launched Glade Optics in 2016 as a creative outlet, working on it during nights and weekends.1 He bootstrapped the company initially, using credit card debt to finance the early stages of the business.4 Within two years, sales grew enough for him to leave his job and focus full-time on Glade Optics.1

Business Growth and Philosophy

Glade Optics has grown into a high-seven-figure business, recognized as a premier product in the ski goggles category.4 The company's success is largely based on its differentiation in branding, distribution, pricing, and customer communication.3

Curt's approach to business emphasizes:

1. Product quality and unique aesthetics
2. Direct-to-consumer sales model
3. Maintaining a connection to the skiing community

Personal Life

Curt now lives in Breckenridge, Colorado, where he can be closer to the community he serves.1 He and his wife Katie spend their winters skiing over 100 days a year, while enjoying mountain biking, paddling, and fly fishing in the summers.1 Curt's passion for skiing and the outdoors is deeply integrated into his business philosophy and lifestyle.56