It is the end of the Cold War. Defense markets begin to dwindle as the global community emerges into the new era of perestroika. Military engine manufacturers brace for the impact, and in a surge of survival instinct and shrewd business sense, one makes the transition into the commercial engine market and eventually surpasses the rest. Witness as GE Aircraft Engines moves from military markets to commercial ventures through the eyes of a 40-year company veteran. Robert Garvins enlightening history details the political and external forces affecting the engine industry and how GE avoided some of the problems posed by environmental politics. Much more than a memoir, "Starting Something Big" tracks GEs progress from the early 1950s to its present-day dominance in the global market. Interview accounts and anecdotes add personal flair to Garvins analysis of the long-term economic characteristics of the aircraft engine industry, including GEs contract with the U.S. Department of Commerce to help Russian aerospace engineers adapt and survive in civil markets. Youll learn, through Garvins experience, how to gain an edge in finding money for new programs, staying competitive in the production of commercial aircraft engines, and positioning your financial investorsand start something big of your own.