In 1979, in her basement, Judy Faulkner founded the company—then called Human Services Computing—with $70,000 in initial startup capital.

Judy Faulkner wrote the original software code herself, and her company now powers the medical records of more than 250 million patients. Epic Systems is used by leading medical centers around the world, including Johns Hopkins and the Mayo Clinic. Judy Faulkner owns 47% of the company.

To become a self-made billionaire from a modest starting capital, Judy Faulkner always adhered to her 4 principles of action.

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Epic Systems' inspiring lobby area.

Maintain employee happiness

Epic Systems' corporate campus is being called "Disney World for adults," featuring a Hogwarts-inspired lobby and a tree house.

Judy Faulkner once attended the company's annual customer meeting dressed as Lucille Ball and the Mad Hatter. Epic Systems' motto is: "Do Good. Have Fun. Make Money."

Scientific studies have shown that happy workers are especially productive, so creating an enjoyable work environment could be key to Epic Systems' success.

Reach the top yourself

According to Forbes, “Judy Faulkner has consistently rejected outside investors, funding, and acquisition offers from venture capitalists.” She maintained this policy throughout the company’s existence, even when she had a major disagreement with one of her co-founders.

Epic Systems partner John Greist once suggested to Judy Faulkner that she take on some venture capital to grow the company faster. But the billionaire said, “No, we won’t do that. Because we’ll lose control.”

That was Judy Faulkner's policy and she stuck to it. The later success of Epic Systems proved her wisdom and correctness.

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Judy Faulkner next to a Data General computer in 1982 at the company's headquarters.

Always curious

Judy Faulkner has always enjoyed solving difficult problems. Her passion for mathematics began in seventh grade when her math teacher wrote a puzzle on the blackboard. This curiosity and eagerness to figure things out has remained the root of her love for computer programming.

“I've always loved making things with clay, and computers are intellectual clay, in a spiritual sense, not a physical one,” she told Forbes.

Do what you love

Judy Faulkner is over 80 years old, but she still works at the company she founded. In a 2021 interview with Forbes, she said she has no plans to retire because she loves her job.

“I love what I do and want to do it as long as it is effective and can bring value to the work.”

(According to Forbes)