Several months ago, Vape-Jet achieved the almost impossible. The Portland, Oregon-based company was awarded a grant by the National Science Foundation (NSF) to study cartridge filling technology in microgravity.
The first-ever microgravity cannabis filling experiment, backed by an NSF grant, is groundbreaking to say the least. Vape-Jet plans to send a research and development version of their machine into space with SpaceX on an upcoming Falcon 9 launch.
Yes, it spells exciting times ahead for the company that manufactures automated and semi-automated filling machines for vape cartridges. And CEO Tim Marsh is as thrilled about the venture.
“This isn’t your typical R&D,” said Marsh. “We’re boldly taking cannabis tech where it’s never been before – pushing boundaries from Oregon to orbit. This grant helps us redefine what’s possible in precision cartridge filling.”
Wharton to Startup Life
Unassuming and down-to-earth, Tim Marsh doesn’t exactly fit the orthodox mold of CEO. Then again, nothing about his leadership is conventional.
Marsh started his studies at the University of Pennsylvania and graduated in the top 10% of his class at The Wharton School. Early on, he combined sharp analytical skills with a love for problem-solving.
His career kicked off at Lazard, a prestigious financial firm, but it wasn’t long before his entrepreneurial spirit took over. He founded Open Labs, a digital health startup aiming to develop an at-home alternative to traditional allergy shots.
The experience taught him the complexities of building a product from the ground up, navigating regulations, and scaling in a competitive environment.
Enter Vape-Jet: Engineering Meets Cannabis
Today, Marsh is at the helm of Vape-Jet, a company that’s transforming cannabis vape manufacturing.
Under his leadership, Vape-Jet builds precision automatic vape cartridge filling machines that deliver aerospace-level accuracy and reliability to vape cartridge production.
Operators can scale their production consistently, without sacrificing quality, a rare feat in the cannabis industry. From startups to established manufacturers, Marsh’s team creates solutions that make expanding operations smoother and more efficient.
Hands-On Leadership Style
Other CEOs lead by trial and error. Not Marsh. He’s applied his engineering mindset to managing his company.
He isn’t a CEO who stays behind a desk; he’s involved in product development and operational strategy. It’s a hands-on approach that’s worked thus far. The team stays aligned with Vape-Jet’s core mission: advancing cannabis manufacturing through intelligent engineering design.
Vape-Jet’s machines are designed with both speed and precision in mind, enabling businesses to focus on growth rather than the inconsistencies of manual vape cartridge filling.
Colleagues describe Marsh as a problem-solver first and a manager second. He fosters a culture of experimentation and iteration. The result? Innovative products.
Driving Innovation in a Niche Industry
Vape-Jet’s focus isn’t solely on building machines; it’s about reshaping an entire industry that thrives on optimal performance.
In an August interview with MG Magazine, Marsh spoke about the Vape-Jet 4.0 Top Load, one of their latest innovative cartridge filler products. The goal was to streamline filling processes and reduce downtime. That’s when they devised the top-loading feature.
Marsh said that loading extract from the top was found to allow for faster batch changeovers. It was important to step back and consider how the machine was not only doing its job but also fitting into the broader operational workflow.
With the help of automation, the machine can “essentially be filled directly with pre-heated extract.”
Talking About Automation…
The company’s dedication to automating cartridge filling and consistent filling earned it recognition as one of the fastest-growing private companies, reports the Portland Business Journal.
By combining technical rigor with user-focused design, Vape-Jet’s products solve real-world problems.
The machines are intuitive, reliable, and capable of handling the demands of high-volume production, making them indispensable for operators who want consistency without compromise.
Building a Product-First Culture
The Wharton School alumnus’ background in engineering and entrepreneurship greatly informs his leadership philosophy.
Marsh prioritizes creating quality products that deliver tangible impact, rather than chasing trends. This focus on meaningful innovation fosters loyalty among customers and employees.
In the cannabis manufacturing space, where quality control and precision are paramount, Marsh’s dedication to engineering excellence sets Vape-Jet apart. Every product reflects his commitment to efficiency and reliability.
To Infinity and Beyond
It’s no wonder the company has become a go-to resource for businesses seeking cutting-edge automatic vape cartridge filling machines.
And as for Vape-Jet’s ISS ambitions? “The stratosphere isn’t our goal – it’s just the next step,” noted co-founder Ryan Hoitt.
The project aims to investigate how cannabis extracts act in microgravity, from fluid movement to temperature control.
The findings could transform vape cartridge production, making products more consistent and of the highest quality for consumers.
Also Read: What Makes THCA Carts the New Favorite Among Vape Fans
