For [Thomas] Mrva, who started the company with $5,000 in savings in 1995 after leaving IBM, the success has come rapidly. In 2000, the company topped the New England Technology “Fast 50,” a list that tracks how rapidly tech companies in the region grow.

Mrva credits much of his success to his ability to staff Lighthouse with strong, knowledgeable employees. Reluctant to hire anybody directly out of college, Mrva said he looks for people who have at least 15 years’ experience in the IT field.

Despite the vast success, Mrva said...that Lincoln is the perfect location to all of the region’s major cities.

“People should be screaming about Lincoln,” Mrva said.