Jim Glidewell began his dental career after military service in Southeast Asia. He attended a 2-year dental technology program at Orange Coast College and graduated in 1969. He formally opened Glidewell Laboratories in January 1970. Currently, it is the world's largest dental laboratory with eight separate laboratories. Through keynote speaking engagements, Jim has shared his production and management strategies for growth with other dental laboratories. He has also developed new products, equipment and production techniques within his own Research & Development Department with the objective of keeping down dental laboratory expenses.