Echo Systems is the region’s leader in residential/commercial technology and lighting. Through its carefully planned and designed professional systems, Echo Systems provides the ultimate technology lifestyle. Doug Dushan is the Senior Sales Consultant and Marketing Coordinator at Echo Systems.
Tell us a little about your business. – Echo Systems is comprised of a group of experts in Lighting Design and Control, Fixtures, Home Automation, Audio & Video Systems, Home Theater and Motorized Shading Solutions. Operating out of a one-of-a kind “Experience Center”, which resembles a high-end custom home, we are able to fully serve the new-construction and remodel client.
How did you get started in the business? – I took a job in the industry after graduating from college. Initially I just thought of it as a short break before leaving for grad school. I quickly got hooked.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – Embracing technology; 17 years ago, I didn’t know how to even hook up a pair of speakers.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – Conceptualizing and securing a position for myself at Echo that didn’t previously exist.
Tell us a little about your family. – My wife Stephanie is a nurse and we have four kids: William (13), Sophie (12), Toby (8) and Lily (7). Oh yeah, and our new puppy Lucy who just ate the kitchen floor.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – I joined the Marine Corps Reserve when I was 17 years old, and volunteered to go on active duty to serve in Desert Storm. During training we had an extremely hard, full gear march. My body wanted to give up, as many of my fellow Marines fell around me. I kept finding a way to stay on my feet another few seconds at a time. When I stepped off the sandy terrain at the end I was a changed man. I discovered a new strength. I don’t give up easily.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Practicing Martial Arts with my boys, watching movies, or being entertained by my daughters as they perform various dance routines.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – I’ve also operated independently as a contemporary art consultant for many years until recently, when my work at Echo kept me too busy.
What are you the most proud of? – My family. Not the dog.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – Take life a day at a time.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Creative.
If you could have a super power, what would it be? – Dog Whispering.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? – Author.
What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – At Echo Systems we provide technology that helps to make life easier for those who are disabled; we take great pride in supporting these types of initiatives locally.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – Dark Angel by Mika Waltari.
What is your favorite movie? – Any of the Star Wars films.
What is your favorite TV show? – The Walking Dead.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – Avoli Osteria.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? – Ghandi. It would be a light meal.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – Via email at Doug.Dushan@echogroupinc.com or visit our website at www.echosystemsmidwest.com.