I am the founder and CEO of Pheratech Systems, a company dedicated to creating biologically inspired robotics and systems powered by advanced swarm intelligence. Our team, composed of experts in robotics, software development, and mechanical engineering, works together to deliver innovative and practical solutions for critical applications, including border security, law enforcement, and environmental monitoring. We harness the latest advancements in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and machine learning to ensure our technologies are both effective and secure, tailored to meet the evolving needs of our clients and stakeholders. I am also an incoming student at Harvey Mudd College, where I plan to pursue degrees in computational biology and computer science and engineering. My passion lies in bridging the gap between the natural world and technology, a pursuit that has driven my journey from founding Pheratech to my previous role as a regional director for The Borgen Project, where I worked with a diverse team to raise awareness and funds to combat global poverty, advocating for policy changes in U.S. foreign relations. As an environmental and human rights advocate, a lifelong ant enthusiast, and a dedicated learner, I find joy in observing nature, fine-tuning the servos of the robotic ant that inspired the founding of Pheratech, and mobilizing fellow conservationists in petition drives. I am always open to new opportunities for collaboration, partnership, or learning. Please feel free to connect with me. Positions: Chief Executive Officer at Pheratech Systems (2023 - Present) Skills: Research Management, Scientific Writing, Scientific Presentation, University Teaching, Interdisciplinary Research, Artificial Intelligence (AI), SBIR, Government Contracting, Public Relations, Government Procurement, Software Development, Mechanical Engineering, Computer-Aided Design (CAD), Engineering Physics, Research and Development (R&D), Cross-team Communication, Computer Vision, Project Management, Innovation Management, Innovation Consulting, Innovation Development, HTML CSS JS, Python (Programming Language), Programming, Teamwork, Human Rights, Education, Leadership, Poverty Reduction, Fundraising, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Director level, Web Production Management, Web Application Development, English Recent Posts: Exciting news from Pheratech Systems! I'm looking for a few people to help out in the Spring 2025 semester (and beyond?) with our innovative robotics projects as interns. We're gearing up for an electrifying few months as we move into a new stage for the company where our technological goals are starting to become realized — so we'd love to have more hands on deck as we transition into a larger operation. For background, Pheratech Systems is currently at the cutting edge of autonomous robotics innovation. As a startup founded in 2023, Pheratech specializes in the development of advanced, biologically-inspired systems for impactful humanitarian causes. Through the use of novel cognitive models and LLMs, we are developing systems that are not only groundbreaking in their fields for their capability, but also for their remarkably intuitive experience for the end user. Our primary goal is to ensure safety and security in modern society, addressing logistical gaps in emergency response for mass active crises events, search and rescue missions in challenging environments, and efficient disaster relief coordination efforts. Here are our open internship positions for Spring 2025: • Neural Systems Intern: Create & train specialized AI models that power our robots. • Intelligent Systems & Computer Vision Intern: Design & develop the overarching AI systems that transform environmental cues into decisions. • Embedded Systems Intern: Work on hardware-software integration for these models on embedded microcontrollers. Check out careers.pheratech.com for more info. If you or anyone you know is interested, we encourage you to apply at your earliest convenience. We will be reviewing applications on a rolling basis — so the earlier the better! Feel free to DM me, email me, or send carrier pigeon with any questions. Pheratech Systems was officially formed in November of last year, but the dream really began in early September. It’s hard to believe that just a year ago, this was only an idea, and now, we’ve come so far. As we near our first anniversary, I find myself reflecting on the journey. The leadership and guidance of Ret. USBP Deputy Chief Patrol Agent Michael Harrison has been nothing short of transformative. He believed in us when we were just getting started, and his wisdom has shaped our vision in ways I never imagined. I’ll always be grateful for the lessons he’s shared and the trust he placed in us from the very beginning. My advisory board—Gregory Alley, Elizabeth Witengier, and Brent Pirie—have been with me from day one, providing their unwavering support and guidance. Their collective wisdom has shaped Pheratech’s direction, and I’m incredibly grateful for their belief in our vision and their dedication to helping us grow. And, of course, my business partner, Alex Hynds. You’ve seen me at my best and my worst, yet through every late night, every exhausted day, you’ve stood by me. The countless hours we’ve put in together—early mornings, burnt-out nights—have all been worth it. Something is inspiring about logging into GitHub at some random time in the middle of the night and seeing your random pull at 2:00 AM; it always puts a smile on my face. Your dedication mirrors mine, and I couldn’t have asked for a more committed partner on this journey. As we welcome new team members, whether they’re software engineers, project managers, or builders of our vision, I can’t help but think of the heights "my people" have helped me reach. To those who believed in me along the way—my mentors, friends, colleagues, and even the founding members who left Pheratech to pursue their own dreams—thank you. Your support has meant everything, and I carry it with me every step of the way. Here’s to many more milestones ahead. Very excited to see what comes next for us!