In the ever-evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, Thiru Vikram stands as a beacon of innovation and determination. Born on July 25, 1995, in Tamil Nadu, South India, Vikram’s journey from the Lawrence School, Lovedale, to becoming the CEO of Buffalo Automation is nothing short of extraordinary.
Early Life and Academic Pursuits of Thiru Vikram
Thiru Vikram’s early years at the Lawrence School showcased his leadership skills as he served as the Headboy and immersed himself in the world of robotics.
His educational journey led him to the University at Buffalo School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, where he studied computer science and electrical engineering.
It was during his university days that Thiru Vikram, along with fellow students Alexander Zhitelzeyf and Emilie Reynolds, co-founded Buffalo Automation.
Their vision was clear: to develop an artificial intelligence system enabling self-navigation for ships and boats. In 2015, Vikram made the bold decision to focus on the company full-time, leaving a traditional academic path behind.
A Multifaceted Achiever
Thiru Vikram’s achievements extend beyond the tech realm. In addition to his role as a tech entrepreneur, he serves in the US Army Reserve as a combat engineer, showcasing his commitment to diverse fields.
Recognition for his accomplishments came in 2018 when he secured first place in the Entrepreneurs’ Organization Global Student Entrepreneurship Awards Western NY Competition.
The accolades continued in 2021, as Vikram was honored as a CSE Distinguished Junior Alumni by the University at Buffalo. In 2022, he found himself among the United States’ top CEOs in the Assistive Technology Startup Space and a standout in Navigation, as acknowledged by Boardroom Media.
Trailblazing Inventions
Thiru Vikram’s impact is not just in leadership but also as an inventor. His name is associated with several patents focusing on autonomous navigation technology.
These inventions include cutting-edge sensor systems for maritime vessels, deep learning intelligent sensing systems, and methods for training deep learning systems tailored for maritime applications.
Buffalo Automation’s Journey to Success
Buffalo Automation’s journey gained momentum in 2016, marked by victories in pitch competitions and recognition in prestigious entrepreneurial events. Vikram’s ability to secure funding was evident, with a recent $900,000 seed investment led by the Jacobs family.
Jon Spitz, managing director of Z80, expressed surprise at the substantial investment for Buffalo, acknowledging Vikram’s unwavering determination.
The funding is earmarked for developing Buffalo Automation’s AutoMate system, an analytical powerhouse using sensors to navigate boats efficiently, ensuring safety and fuel optimization.
Buffalo Automation’s base in Buffalo is strategic, given its proximity to the eastern tip of Lake Erie, a major shipping hub. Vikram’s team utilizes the frozen Niagara River to test AI applications for self-driving ships during dormant periods.
Expanding Horizons
While fleet management and autopilot applications remain the focus, Buffalo Automation is exploring self-driving devices for recreational markets, including yachts and speed boats. This expansion aligns with Vikram’s commitment to continuous innovation and responsiveness to customer feedback.
The company’s growth is not only attributed to Vikram’s expertise but also to the support received from entities like the UB Technology Incubator’s tenX co-working space. Vikram acknowledges the guidance from experienced individuals, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that propelled Buffalo Automation forward.
Also Read : Debraj Ray: A Trailblazer in Development Economics and Game Theory