Startup Spotlight: KIT-AR
Discover the remarkable journey of Manuel Oliveira, CEO and Co-Founder of KIT-AR, as he works towards revolutionising the manufacturing industry. With a strong foundation in applied research, a deep commitment to leveraging technology to deliver sustainable impact, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence, Manuel shares his insights on achieving success and offers advice to aspiring entrepreneurs.
Could you tell us more about your background and role at KIT-AR?
Before becoming CEO and one of the co-founders of KIT-AR, I worked mainly on applied research in manufacturing. My main drive has always been to create a measurable impact from the use of technology. The manufacturing field provided me with that opportunity while leveraging the role of human workers. My work towards a more sustainable manufacturing sector drove me to KIT-AR.
Who inspired you to pursue the career you have today?
In our case, the expression “standing on the shoulders of giants” couldn’t be more accurate. It is difficult to highlight a single person as the reason why I pursued this professional path. Delving into my childhood, I see the influence of my maternal grandfather, who was a surgeon and had a significant impact on people’s lives, being loved by the community. My father a role in shaping my perspective, showing me that technology is a great multiplier of impact delivery.
One always meets great minds through life that shape us in ways we are sometimes unaware of.
What’s the greatest challenge you’ve overcome at KIT-AR?
Quality is a deeply ingrained value at KIT-AR. It is part of our culture and everyone strives for excellence in everything that is done. That said, our greatest challenge was to establish a threshold that allowed that excellence pursuit to endure, while avoiding burning out.
What does success mean at KIT-AR?
Each time we engage with a customer and witness their workers embrace our product because of the value they see, we are a step closer to success and to fulfilling our vision: to be the digital platform for the manufacturing worker.
What’s the best advice you can give to young entrepreneurs?
A strong vision is of the utmost importance because it gives you direction, but execution is what makes it a reality. If you don’t have both, make sure you find partners for your journey that can help you connect these and shares the passion for the long haul.
Thank you, Manuel, for sharing more about KIT-AR with the AX community!
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