The time flew by as I sat captivated - our guest was forthright about his upbringing, his trade as an engineer, his love for Japan, and high-tech information. Ira Bolden is living his childhood dream, staying true to his professional motto to “always be on the cutting edge.” I respect him, not just as a fellow ex-pat and businessperson, but as a man who also comes from “strong roots,” and the foundation has been the cornerstone to his success. Ira was strongly influenced by his father, a scientist, engineer, and metallurgist, and being raised by his hard-working mother, Ira had to grow up quickly. It’s incredible to hear firsthand how the high-tech digital industry boomed in Japan, and Ira with his team played a crucial role in its fruition.