Columbia, South Carolina: The Future of Defense Technology
In the heart of Columbia, South Carolina, a remarkable journey in defense technology is taking shape. Founded in 2021, Integer Technologies has quickly emerged as a key player in identifying technological gaps within the U.S. Department of Defense. Their mission? To swiftly transition innovative solutions from university labs directly into the hands of the men and women serving our country.
A Growing Force in Defense Innovation
It’s no surprise that Integer Technologies has risen to the top as the number one company on the rankings of the 50 Fastest Growing Companies in South Carolina just three years after their launch. This impressive status is attributed to the company’s focused efforts on developing autonomous systems specifically for naval applications. Recently, Integer has crafted a prototype that helps unmanned service vessels, or USVs, with crucial tasks like navigation and collision avoidance.
The Visionary Founders
The brains behind this exciting venture are Duke Hartman, CEO, and Josh Knight, COO. Both gentlemen boast extensive backgrounds in maritime and defense industries. Hartman is a professional engineer whose career has dedicated itself to this field, while Knight has led research and development teams for a growth-stage small business specializing in defense tech. Their partnership began during the pandemic, and it’s safe to say they’ve turned a challenging time into a blooming business.
Meeting the Needs of the Navy
Integer’s rapid ascent in the tech world has caught the eye of the U.S. Navy, which now ranks as a top client through the Office of Naval Research. Integer concentrates on four main technology areas: mission autonomy, digital engineering, cybersecurity, and sensors and perception. Hartman emphasizes, “We help develop better eyes, ears and brains for robotic ships, robotic submarines, and robotic airplanes.” This dedication reflects Integer’s commitment to enhancing the capabilities of our military forces.
Building Partnerships for Success
A significant factor driving Integer’s growth is its collaboration with universities. This cooperative approach not only brings additional research funding but also supports the development of new facilities and opportunities for both faculty and students. The company’s primary partner, the University of South Carolina, assists Integer in its mission, alongside recent contracts with Louisiana State University and Benedict College.
A Hidden Gem of Talent
“There is in South Carolina, and particularly where we are in Columbia, a base of tech, or a base of STEM talent that I think folks outside don’t fully appreciate,” Knight shared. This thriving environment has proven beneficial for Integer, providing a robust pool of local talent that aids in their rapid expansion.
Real-World Applications and Challenges
One of Integer’s primary objectives is to ensure its technologies are effectively utilized by sailors, marines, and airmen. While their technology has already been employed on Navy ships during actual missions, it still awaits implementation for full-time use. One particular hurdle faced by the company is the challenge of establishing trust in autonomous systems, an important concern for the military. To tackle this, Integer follows the principle of “don’t just tell them, but show them.” They conduct trials of early prototypes on actual vessels, helping their team learn, improve, and exhibit how their technology evolves with each iteration.
Turning Research into Action
As Hartman puts it, “What’s hard about what we do is also what excites us the most and is the most inspiring in terms of a goal: putting research into action.” This determination encapsulates the spirit of Integer Technologies, a company that not only embraces innovation but is also paving the way for the future of defense technology right here in South Carolina.
