About the Company

Gerber Labs was an online solution for creating custom PCBs. Based in Tustin, California, it emerged to bridge the gap between professional PCB manufacturers and smaller-scale consumers like engineering students, hobbyists, and startups. Traditional PCB manufacturers catered to large-scale orders, leaving smaller entities underserved. Gerber Labs focused on democratizing access by simplifying the ordering and manufacturing processes, empowering users to bring their PCB designs to life.

The company operated as a direct-to-consumer (D2C) venture, making the PCB design and manufacturing process less intimidating. It emphasized accessibility, reliability, and quality, helping users from various backgrounds realize their engineering projects. By integrating modernized solutions into a traditionally complex industry, Gerber Labs aimed to redefine how individuals and small teams interacted with PCB manufacturing.

Idea Behind Company

Kyle Sheng’s entrepreneurial journey was shaped by his upbringing in a household surrounded by electrical engineering tools and devices. This exposure nurtured his curiosity and passion for innovation. While working at PalPilot, Sheng identified the gap in PCB manufacturing for smaller-scale needs. PalPilot’s management shared his vision and approached him to lead a new D2C initiative.

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted the need for such a solution as engineers and hobbyists sought online tools for their projects. Combining his engineering knowledge and digital expertise, Sheng, alongside his co-founders, conceptualized Gerber Labs as a streamlined, user-focused platform for ordering custom PCBs. This idea marked a fusion of entrepreneurship, engineering, and digital modernization.

Creating the Company

Gerber Labs was built on a foundation of modernizing the outdated PCB manufacturing system. Drawing on their experience at PalPilot, the founding team developed a seamless process that involved designing PCBs, exporting Gerber files, and submitting them via the platform. By simplifying steps like file verification and customization, they ensured a smooth user experience.

The manufacturing and delivery timeline was optimized to provide efficiency and quality. Depending on the complexity, boards could be delivered within 7–16 days. Gerber Labs also prioritized affordability and transparency, offering users a clear breakdown of costs and order details at checkout.

Their operational model leveraged innovative tools and technologies. For instance, their platform facilitated global collaboration with suppliers while maintaining a focus on digital-first, customer-centric solutions.

Launching the Business

Launching Gerber Labs was an intricate process, blending intrapreneurship and startup methodologies. Sheng left his role at BuzzFeed to join PalPilot, where his digital expertise helped modernize the company. With the management’s backing, Sheng and his team crafted a comprehensive business plan and secured funding from PalPilot to establish Gerber Labs as an independent entity.

The team tackled significant challenges, including convincing stakeholders of their D2C e-commerce approach and integrating advanced technologies into traditional manufacturing processes. After a year of development, including website creation, marketing alignment, and supplier collaboration, Gerber Labs launched with a refined product and platform.

Their marketing strategy emphasized understanding customer needs and ensuring technical competence. By focusing on seamless user experiences and high-quality products, Gerber Labs attracted a growing base of engineers and hobbyists.

Earnings

Despite its innovative approach, Gerber Labs faced challenges that eventually led to its closure in 2023. However, during its operational period, the company generated consistent interest and revenue from its core audience.

The company focused heavily on customer relationships, leveraging feedback to refine its platform and processes. Insights gained from running the business underscored the importance of balancing growth with sustainability, especially in a global and technically demanding industry.

While Gerber Labs is no longer operational, its legacy offers valuable lessons on addressing niche market gaps, modernizing traditional industries, and navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship.