By Mary Wymer
“As you are now, I once was; As I am now, you soon will be.” This epitaph has guided Tom Patterson’s life since he first saw it when he was a teenager. With this message as his theme to inspire students, Patterson spoke of his many adventures of being an entrepreneur and business owner.
His discussion conveyed to students the importance of investment in the things, like education, that launch their career paths to success. There comes a time to payback and recognize the people and institutions that helped him get to many successful places, said Patterson.
Patterson founded DAXKO in 1998 as a leading provider of operations and financial management solutions for member-centric, non-profit organizations. DAXKO’s software helps customers develop healthier organizations that operate more efficiently.
Patterson also serves as chairman of YachtRecord, which was formed in November 2007. The YachtRecord service enables boat owners to securely manage risk associated with the data generated by the operation of their yacht. After digitizing manuals, logs, and inventory, the YachtRecord system provides onboard access through a simple, searchable and secure interface.
Prior to DAXKO and YachtRecord, Patterson founded TXEN Inc., where he developed an Application Service Provider (ASP) capability for the managed care industry. In 1979, Patterson founded SEAKO Inc., where he served as president for 10 years and developed the company into a major computer systems supplier to the insurance, healthcare and managed care markets.
Patterson received a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and a master’s degree in engineering mechanics from The University of Alabama in 1964 and 1966, respectively. In 1988, he was named a Distinguished Engineering Fellow by UA’s College of Engineering. In 2004, Patterson was inducted into the State of Alabama Engineering Hall of Fame.
Patterson’s presentation was part of the College of Engineering’s Dean’s Leadership Series, which brings prominent business leaders and engineering entrepreneurs to speak with students at UA. Patterson’s lecture was on February 19 in the Tom Bevill Energy, Mineral, and Material Science Research Building, Room 101.
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