Dustin Soulliere is the Owner and CEO of Elite Robotics, an automation services company specializing in robot programming, system layout, simulation, and controls for industries from automotive to powertrain applications. Since founding the business in 2017, he has grown it to around 100 employees with consistent 50% annual growth. Drawing on diverse entrepreneurial experience, Dustin drives the company’s strategic expansion and commitment to seamless virtual-to-physical automation solutions.

Many founders hit a ceiling when they try to scale from a capable solo operator to a company that wins larger contracts while balancing personal commitments. The stakes rise as growth exposes gaps in systems, talent, and credibility with customers. How do you position yourself for bigger opportunities while steering clear of common pitfalls like unfocused side ventures and getting bogged down in the details?

Dustin Soulliere, an expert in automation systems and robotics, shares lessons from building a fast-growing business from the ground up. Dustin emphasizes the value of taking calculated risks, such as investing in infrastructure to attract larger clients, and focusing on people’s strengths rather than their weaknesses. He warns against underestimating the time and attention side ventures require, advises applying the same rigor to all business endeavors, and underscores the importance of mentorship by both seeking it for oneself and offering it to others.

In this episode of The Road Already Traveled, Rich Schuette interviews Dustin Soulliere, Owner and CEO of Elite Robotics, about scaling an automation business through strategy and leadership. Dustin discusses taking bold risks, hiring based on strengths, and applying consistent standards across ventures. He also provides insights on managing friendships in business, learning from missteps, and moments of pride like securing major clients.