The Mile High Automation Story
Mile High Automation grew out of its founder’s passion for cutting edge technology and his desire to use it to improve our lives. With prior experience in IT and audio, Josh Ferguson found his calling in home automation. What started as a simple hobby soon turned into countless sleepless nights researching and tinkering with every device he could get his hands on.
In 2005, while working on his MBA, Ferguson parlayed his passion and extensive knowledge of home automation into a business: Mile High Automation LLC. Initially providing Colorado residents with fully installed systems, Ferguson noticed an industry trend – systems were getting easier to install but more difficult to design and program. In addition, the average consumer’s understanding and comfort level with technology was rapidly increasing. This prompted Ferguson to move his business online where he could use his expertise in the design, programming and configuration of systems, while providing guidance and tips on installation to the owner or his installer.
Now in its fifth year, Mile High Automation has skyrocketed to become the worldwide leader in DIY home automation systems. Working one-on-one with homeowners, builders and dealers from around the U.S. and as far away as Sydney, Australia, Mile High Automation has earned both client and industry praise.
While the products have changed, Mile High Automation’s high level of personalized service has not. “We ‘automate’ homes all day long, but the one thing that cannot be automated is the personal relationship with our clients,” states Ferguson. “Each automation system we create is built around the homeowners -- their family, their home, and their unique needs.”
Ferguson continues to stay up late at night researching the latest trends in the industry, as well as scouring conferences and trade shows for new ideas. “The industry is changing and evolving every day; if we become complacent, our clients will suffer,” he says with a smile. Ferguson can’t wait to test out the next great gadget coming down the pike.
Josh Ferguson, President
Josh graduated Magna Cum Laude from Albright College in Reading, PA with a degree and Management & Digital Media. From a young age he had a love of technology and how it could improve his and others lives. Before founding Mile High Automation, Josh started and ran a successful computer training business as well as a website development company.
Over the years, Mile High Automation has exploded to become an industry leader in home automation, multi-room audio, and HDTV distribution systems. “I am thrilled to report that our systems are installed all over the United States and world. As of today (12/17/2009), our systems are in nearly all 50 states and in over 8 countries including Canada, Ireland, England, France, Australia, and others” states Ferguson.
From 2005 through 2008 Josh was the face of Mile High Automation, as he actively worked with clients to design their systems, program their equipment, and provide technical support when needed. Josh now works behind the scenes for the most part while still doing wiring plans, programming, and technical support. “With the addition of Jaime and Dan I have the time to focus on adding new products, solutions, and making us a better company each and every day” states Ferguson.
In his free time, Josh enjoys playing beach volleyball, tackling home improvement projects, watching movies, and traveling with his family.
Daniel Lowitz, Sales Manager/Lead Installer
Dan started his custom electronics career in 1994 working with high-end home stereo (strictly 2-channel) and complex automotive audio/security systems. The major transition to home theatre, multi-room audio and custom installation came a couple years later.
“I feel very lucky to have gotten in on the ground floor of such an amazing and exciting industry” Dan shares, “ I truly believe the automation and integration of home systems combined with distributed audio and video services will become the standard for all homes, the benefits are too great to be ignored.” He has worked on systems that reach all the way to $1.8 million and homes as large as 45,000sq. ft.
Dan is an avid snowboard, runner and hiker and the outdoor lifestyle and sunshine is what brought him to Colorado. He is also a graduate of the Art Institute of New York City with a degree in Culinary Arts. “After 14 years of working with clients to create the seamless integration and automation of electronics, at many different levels, it is my hope that the experience and knowledge I have been able to acquire over the course of my involvement in this complex and ever evolving industry will translate into many successful relationships.”
Jaime Ferguson, Director of Operations
Jaime graduated Magna Cum Laude from Albright College in Pennsylvania. She put her education in Child & Family studies to work in Denver at Laradon Hall, a school for special needs children.
While Jaime had helped form and run Mile High Automation since its conception, she officially started as a full-time partner at the end of 2007. Since that time she has streamlined our operations and enabled us to design, program, and support more systems.
Jaime also administers our W.A.F. test, otherwise known as the Wife Acceptance Factor test. In order to pass this test, the product must be easy to use, serve a purpose, and compliment her home’s décor. To date, some of her favorite products include listing to the Nuvo Music Server in the Master Bathroom while getting ready in the morning, viewing the family dogs while away from home, and having the peace of mind the HAI security system provides.
In December 2009 Jaime took on the new job title "mom" with the birth of Josh & Jaime's first child. Once baby Ferguson is out of diapers he will be put to work in the family business designing and programming systems.
Michelle Radcliffe, Office Manager
Michelle graduated with honors from the University of West Georgia with a degree in Political Science. Since becoming a part of Mile High Automation she has enjoyed supporting Josh and Dan in growing the company. “I am always impressed with the innovations and conveniences the home automation industry brings, and Mile High Automation is the leader of the pack.” Radcliffe states.
Since moving to Colorado, Michelle picked up skiing and also enjoys festivals, dining out, and being outside with her dogs.
