From Navy Bombs to Business Bytes: Kevin Clemons on Tech, Grit & Growth
In this episode, Bret sits down with Kevin Clemons, CEO of Au Technology Solutions and Chamber board member, to explore his journey from Vista native to Navy veteran to tech entrepreneur. Kevin opens up about building his first computers, leveraging the GI Bill to launch his career, and how he turned setbacks into opportunities.
Listeners will learn how Microsoft’s ecosystem—including Teams and Copilot—helps businesses save money, improve communication, and stay secure. Kevin also shares why his company stays local, hands-on, and security-focused, offering peace of mind for clients.
This conversation is packed with leadership lessons, entrepreneurial grit, and practical insights for business owners navigating the digital landscape.
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Sponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting
Host (Bret Schanzenbach):
Welcome everyone to Carlsbad People, Purpose, and Impact, the podcast for those who live, work, visit, and play in Carlsbad. I’m Bret Schanzenbach, President and CEO of the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce, and your host. Today I’m joined by one of our Chamber board members, Kevin Clemons, owner and CEO of Au Technology Solutions.
Kevin Clemons:
Thanks for having me, Bret. Excited to be here.
Kevin shares his story of growing up in Vista, serving in the Navy aboard the USS Nimitz, and discovering his passion for IT. From building his first computer in high school to starting “Really Good Computers,” Kevin always had an entrepreneurial streak. His journey includes navigating layoffs during the 2008 recession, leveraging the Post-9/11 GI Bill to earn his degree, and eventually founding Au Technology Solutions in Carlsbad.
The conversation dives into:
• Kevin’s Navy experience and the discipline it instilled.
• His transition from side-hustle computer repair to running a full-fledged IT firm.
• Why he aligned with Microsoft as a Certified Partner.
• How Microsoft 365, Teams, and Copilot bring efficiency, security, and AI innovation to businesses.
• The importance of local, hands-on IT support and why Kevin’s team keeps everything in-house for security.
• The future of AI in IT troubleshooting and daily business operations.
Kevin also shares how his leadership role in the International Association of Microsoft Channel Partners broadened his network and strengthened his company’s expertise. His story is equal parts resilience, innovation, and local pride.
