Exciting Innovations in Defense Tech Blooming in South Carolina
In the heart of South Carolina, a technological revolution is taking shape that promises to bolster our nation’s defense efforts. Integer Technologies, a company founded just two years ago, is making waves by identifying and addressing critical technology gaps within the U.S. Department of Defense. With a clear goal in mind, Integer is transforming science and innovation from local university labs into valuable tools for servicemen and women.
A Rapid Ascent
What’s particularly impressive is that Integer has quickly risen to the top, securing the title of number one on the list of the 50 Fastest Growing Companies in South Carolina. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the hard work and vision of its founders, Duke Hartman and Josh Knight, who launched the company during the pandemic in 2021.
With Hartman serving as CEO, a professional engineer with extensive experience in maritime and defense industries, and Knight, the COO and lead scientist, managing research and development for a growing small business, they bring a wealth of knowledge to the table. Their combined expertise is evident as they focus on cutting-edge technologies, especially in the realm of autonomous systems tailored for naval applications.
Innovative Solutions for the Navy
Integer has dedicated a significant amount of its resources to creating prototypes that aid unmanned service vessels (USVs) in navigation and collision avoidance. Imagine robotic ships that can operate independently while avoiding potential hazards—this is the future that Hartman and Knight are paving for us! Their commitment to providing better “eyes, ears, and brains” for robots in the Navy, Marines, and Air Force speaks volumes about their vision for autonomous military technology.
The Power of Partnerships
One of the cornerstones of Integer’s success is its collaboration with local universities. The company’s primary partnership is with the University of South Carolina, which has played a major role in facilitating additional research funds for new facilities and opportunities. Recently, Integer expanded its collaborations to include Louisiana State University and Benedict College, highlighting the booming tech landscape right here in South Carolina.
As Knight pointed out, “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.” This local talent is not only helping Integer grow, but is also crucial for bolstering the region’s economy through job creation and workforce development.
Building Trust in Technology
While the company is achieving amazing growth and innovation, they’ve also encountered some hurdles along the way. One of the biggest challenges has been gaining the military’s trust in autonomous systems. This trust is vital for them to fully implement their technology on the front lines. To tackle this challenge, Integer focuses on a straightforward philosophy: “Don’t just tell them, but show them.” Conducting tests of early prototypes on actual vessels both enhances their technology and demonstrates how it continues to evolve.
As Hartman explained, “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 sense of purpose drives the team at Integer as they work tirelessly to ensure their innovations make a lasting impact.
Looking Ahead
With a mission rooted in enhancing the capabilities of our military, Integer Technologies is paving the way for a future where technology and defense go hand-in-hand. If their rapid growth is any indication, we can expect to see even more remarkable advancements from this innovative company in the years to come.
South Carolina’s support for its homegrown talent is clear, and as we watch Integer Technologies flourish, it’s evident that the future of defense tech is bright—and it’s being built right here at home.
