We recently had the privilege of interviewing Dr Reji Kurien Thomas, Founder of TechnoPilot® and CEO of TOL Biotech, USA. A visionary leader, Dr Reji is passionate about developing innovative, sustainable technology and policy development around the SDGs. Honoured with some of the top recognitions over the years of his career journey, Dr. Reji Kurien Thomas is the epitome of passion with purpose. He was in Jan 2024 hand-picked from the best globally, and awarded the prestigious Stephen Hawking Global award for scientific innovation and excellence.
As the CEO of TOL Biotech, Dr Reji Kurien Thomas is bridging the gap with cutting-edge tech and sustainable solutions. In this insightful interview, Dr Reji shares his journey in this field, the inception of his businesses, challenges and triumphs, and services offered by the same while offering valuable suggestions for aspiring beginners in the industry.
Spark Behind The Passion
We were intrigued to learn about Dr Reji Kurien Thomas’s journey. So, we asked, “What ignited your passion and led you to embark on your professional journey in this particular field?”
Reji shared, “My journey wasn’t scripted, the stars of curiosity navigated it and a compass pointing towards real-world problems. From charting courses in the Navy to unraveling the mysteries of quantum physics, each step fueled a fire within me – a fire to harness technology for good. But seeing firsthand the scars on our planet and the struggles of farming communities, that’s where the fuel turned into blazing passion. I had to build a bridge between cutting-edge tech and sustainable solutions. That’s why TechnoPilot® took flight, not in a sterile boardroom but in the fertile ground of these challenges. It wasn’t just about starting a business; it was about planting a seed, a seed of change that would blossom into a global movement.
And now, that seed has sprouted to serve another in the form of TOL Biotech, a company rooted in the United States but with branches reaching across the globe. But what truly ignited this fire were the human stories, the faces etched with worry for their land and their livelihoods. It was the unwavering belief that with every bioplastic that heals the soil, every water droplet generated by quasi-quantum photosynthesis, we can rewrite the narrative of our planet.
TechnoPilot® and TOL Biotech aren’t just businesses; they’re testaments to the power of passion with purpose. Here, we chase a vision – a vision of thriving communities, a planet teeming with life and technology serving as the gardener, not the reaper. There are plenty of green tech companies out there, but TOL Biotech has something special – an ecosystem of solutions, from over sixty innovative uses of premium engineered biochar that nourish without harming the soil-restoring microbes that dance with plant roots. It’s a symphony of innovation, each note carefully chosen to create a harmony of sustainability.”
He added, “It wasn’t one spark that ignited my passion; it was a constellation of experiences, a basket of needs, and a blend of curiosity and desire to solve complex problems, and the transformative potential of technology. And with every innovation, every project, every branch that TOL Biotech stretches across the globe. The ever-evolving landscape of technology, especially in areas like AI, ML, and cybersecurity, presents endless opportunities for innovation. Being part of this transformative wave, leading teams and projects that could change the way we interact with technology, has always been a driving force for me. In this journey, I have aimed to blend scientific rigour with creative problem-solving, ensuring that the solutions we develop are not just technical.
My passion for the field of technology and innovation was also ignited by a deep-seated curiosity and a desire to make meaningful contributions to the world. The transformative power of technology, especially in fields like AI and cybersecurity, captivated me. With the AI market projected to grow significantly, being at the forefront of this revolution has been both a challenge and an exhilarating experience.
My approach has always been to blend rigorous scientific methods with innovative problem-solving, allowing me to lead teams in creating solutions that are not just technologically advanced but also impactful. The goal was to transcend the conventional boundaries of technology and explore new horizons, be it in cybersecurity, where the stakes are continually escalating, or in sustainable technologies, which are vital for our future. My aim has always been to leave a lasting impact, not just through the technologies I’ve helped develop but also through the values and vision I’ve shared with my teams and peers.”
The Beginning Of TechnoPilot®
We were curious to learn more about the beginning of Dr Reji Kurien Thomas’s business. So, we inquired, “Share more about your background and the unique story behind the inception of your business. What sets it apart in the market?”
He replied, “My path hasn’t been a straight road; it’s been a winding journey through diverse landscapes fueled by a thirst for knowledge and a drive to solve real-world problems. From navigating the open seas in the Navy, to flying complex aircraft, to exploring the frontiers of quantum physics, each experience has added a piece to the puzzle, a piece that ignited my passion for using technology for good.
But it was witnessing the scars on our planet and the struggles of farming communities that genuinely set my soul ablaze. It wasn’t enough to tinker in labs; I needed to build a bridge between cutting-edge tech and practical solutions that touched lives, not just filled boardrooms.
That’s how TechnoPilot® took root; it wasn’t just about starting a business; it was about planting a seed, a seed of change that would sprout into a global movement. And now, TOL Biotech, a company with roots in the US but branches reaching across borders, which has world renowed scientists like Sir Professor Ruggero Maria Santilli and Professor Pinchas Mandell who have also developed technologies that will shape the future of humanity”
Setting The Businesses Apart
In the competitive landscape, it is crucial to set the business apart by offering unique services. To learn more, we asked, “What sets TechnoPilot® and TOL Biotech apart?”
Dr Reji responds, “Think of us as a toolbox for tackling environmental and social issues, not just dreamers of green tech, but makers of it. From quasi-quantum photosynthesis for water generation to bioplastics that heal the soil, we push the boundaries of innovation with practical applications that make a real difference. But it’s not just about the tech – it’s about the hands that use it. We believe in empowering communities, teaching farmers regenerative agriculture techniques, and building rural ecosystems that thrive. It’s about creating a ripple effect, a wave of change that starts with a single seed and grows into a forest of sustainability.
What makes us unique is our comprehensive approach; we don’t believe in siloed solutions. We tackle problems from all angles, from the technical to the social, understanding that sustainability is a complex web of interconnected issues. And with TOL Biotech, the toolbox expands. It’s a harmonic of innovation, each note carefully chosen to create a leaf of sustainability.”
He continued, “This journey hasn’t been a walk in the park, and has consisted of its set of challenges. My journey and the stories behind TechnoPilot® and TOL Biotech are the same. They’re testaments to the power of passion with purpose. My journey and the inception of my business, TechnoPilot®, are intertwined with my diverse educational and professional experiences. My fascination with technology began early, and my advanced studies in Computer Science, Quantum Physics, Business Administration, CSR & Sustainability, and Alternative Medicine fueled it. This multidisciplinary approach has given me a holistic perspective, which is rare in the technology sector.
TechnoPilot® was born out of a vision to integrate this multidisciplinary approach into the realm of cybersecurity and technology solutions. Furthermore, my tenure in the Indian Navy and subsequent roles in various technology domains have imbued me with a deep understanding of the strategic aspects of technology implementation. TechnoPilot® distinguishes itself by offering solutions that are grounded in a deep understanding of both the technological and human aspects of cybersecurity, a reflection of my personal journey and professional ethos.”
Bursting The Myths
In every industry, certain myths are prevalent among the masses. So, we inquired, “Identify a prevalent misconception about your industry or role that you believe needs clarification. How would you address and rectify this perception?”
He shared, “As the Founder of Technopilot®, I encountered two main misconceptions that deserve clarification. Firstly, it is assumed that green tech is all about fluffy solutions that don’t deliver accurate results. But this is not the reality. Green tech is not just tree-hugging and feel-good initiatives. It’s about harnessing the power of cutting-edge science and engineering to solve some of the world’s most pressing environmental and social challenges. At TechnoPilot® and TOL Biotech, we’re developed practical solutions like technologies for large volumes of water generation, waste to energy solutions that heal the soil & water, and different innovative products that nourish without harming animals. These technologies are not pie-in-the-sky ideas; they’re rigorously tested and designed to make a real difference in people’s lives.
Another prevalent misconception is that green tech is costly and inaccessible to ordinary people. However, while some green technologies can be expensive in the early stages, we firmly believe in making them affordable and accessible to everyone. At TOL Biotech, we’re focusing on developing solutions that can be quickly adopted by farmers and communities, often with minimal additional investment.”
“To address these myths, we actively engage with the public through educational workshops, webinars, and social media campaigns, demonstrating the science behind our technologies and their real-world applications.
Also, we work with other green tech companies, NGOs, and research institutions to share knowledge, resources, and best practices, accelerating the development and deployment of practical solutions.
Besides, we also showcase the positive impact of our technologies through case studies and testimonials from communities that have benefited from them. By actively addressing these misconceptions, we can pave the way for a future where green technology isn’t just a niche industry, but a mainstream approach to creating a healthier planet and a more just society.” Dr Reji added.
Adaptability Amidst Challenges
Every professional journey is filled with inevitable challenges. To learn how Dr Reji Kurien Thomas overcame the same, we asked, “Reflecting on your journey, what significant challenges have you encountered in your business, and how did you successfully navigate and overcome them?”
He replied, “Looking back, the path of TechnoPilot® and TOL Biotech hasn’t been paved with rose petals. But just like a sturdy oak, we’ve grown more robust with each hurdle, our roots burrowing deeper, our branches reaching for the sunlight. We faced two significant challenges, and here’s how we weathered them.
Early on, we met with skepticism and got questions like, “large volume water generation from the air? Space colonisation? Sounds like sci-fi, not solutions.” But instead of turning back, we doubled down on the demonstration. We built functional prototypes, conducted rigorous testing, and shared the data openly. We invited skeptics to see the green shoots of innovation pushing through the soil of research. We learned that sometimes, the best way to overcome skepticism is to shine a bright light on reality.
Also, navigating the financial jungle was no picnic. Grants were elusive, and investors were cautious. But instead of succumbing to the shade, we embraced resourcefulness. We learned that even the smallest seed, with the right story and a dash of ingenuity, can find its way to the sun. These challenges weren’t just obstacles; they were teachers. They showed us that sometimes, the most innovative solutions come from facing the most challenging problems head-on.”
He continued, “Today, TechnoPilot® and TOL Biotech stand tall, branches laden with the fruits of our labour. We’ve proven that green tech isn’t just a dream; it’s a thriving forest, and we’re proud to be among the pioneering saplings who dared to break through the skepticism and reach for the sun. So, to anyone going through the same, remember this: with perseverance, a compelling story, and a dash of ingenuity, even the tiniest seed can blossom into a mighty oak, and the future, just like our planet, can be a garden of sustainable solutions. The challenges I’ve encountered and overcome are multi-faceted, each contributing to my growth and the success of my ventures.
At TechnoPilot®, the cybersecurity landscape presented a different set of challenges. Developing cybersecurity solutions that were not only advanced but also user-friendly and adaptable to various organizational cultures was a key challenge. My approach was to nurture a culture of continuous learning and innovation within the team, ensuring we stayed ahead of emerging threats. In Virenxia, the challenge diversified into integrating technology with sustainable development goals. We navigated these challenges by leveraging collaborative efforts and bridging gaps between technology, sustainability, and social impact.
Throughout these experiences, the key to overcoming challenges was a blend of continuous learning, adaptive leadership, collaborative teamwork, and a commitment to innovation. Each role demanded a unique approach, but the underlying principles remained the same. These principles have been the cornerstone of my approach to navigating and overcoming the myriad challenges in my professional journey. When you can do the everyday things of life uncommonly, you will command the attention of the world. A leader knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way, and leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality.”
Plans We Asked Dr. Reji Kurien Thomas
We further asked, “Outline your professional aspirations and goals. What strategic initiatives are you implementing to achieve these objectives?”
Reji continued, “My professional aspirations are as vast and interconnected as the root systems of an ancient forest. They’re not just about TechnoPilot® and TOL Biotech but about shaping a future where technology and nature co-exist in perfect harmony. I dream of a world where cutting-edge sustainability solutions aren’t just for the privileged few but accessible to everyone. This means developing affordable technologies, partnering with communities, and nurturing knowledge-sharing ecosystems – that’s the kind of democratization I strive for.
Collaboration is the oxygen of innovation. I believe in breaking down silos between different sectors – tech, agriculture, academia, government – and cultivating cross-pollination of ideas. We’re actively building partnerships with diverse stakeholders, creating platforms for open dialogue, and working towards a future where sustainability isn’t a competitive race but a collaborative journey.
I also envision a future where technology isn’t just exploiting resources but working in harmony with nature; it’s about shifting from domination to partnership, from extractors to caretakers. Young minds are the seeds of our future. I’m passionate about igniting a fire for sustainability in the next generation. We need to show them that protecting the planet isn’t just a duty but an exciting adventure filled with innovation and possibility.”
He further added, “We adopt strategic initiatives, including sharing knowledge and technology through open-source platforms to accelerate innovation and empower communities. Also, we partner with investors who understand the value of both financial and environmental returns.
Nurturing young green tech startups and providing them with the resources and mentorship they need to thrive is one of our other initiatives. Also, crafting compelling narratives that showcase the human impact of sustainable solutions and inspire action is essential. We are also collaborating with schools and universities to integrate sustainability education into curriculums. These are just some of the ways I aim to achieve my professional aspirations.”
Fostering Collaboration
“Collaboration and teamwork are integral to success. Could you elaborate on the methods and practices you employ to foster a culture of collaboration within your organization or group?”
He passionately responds, “You’re right; collaboration and teamwork are the lifeblood of any successful organization, especially in fast-paced and complex fields like green tech. We have cultivated a vibrant culture of collaboration that thrives on several fundamental principles. I am always open for anyone to share ideas, concerns, or suggestions. We also encourage cross-disciplinary collaboration and knowledge sharing, along with celebrating diverse perspectives and believing the best solutions often arise from unexpected collisions of ideas.
We nurture a culture of active listening, where everyone feels heard and valued, besides encouraging healthy debate and constructive criticism, knowing that disagreement can be a powerful engine for innovation. We operate with a flat hierarchy, empowering individuals to take ownership of their projects and make decisions without endless layers of approvals. Also, celebrating achievements as a team reinforces our bonds and strengthens our sense of collective purpose.
We recognize and reward individual and team contributions, ensuring everyone feels valued and appreciated, fueling motivation, and keeping the collaborative spirit alive.”
“We define and articulate our core values, ensuring everyone understands what unites us and guides our actions while investing in team-building exercises. Moreover, we encourage open and honest feedback, focusing on solutions and providing them in a way that promotes growth and learning rather than fear or defensiveness.
In terms of tools, we utilize online collaboration platforms like Qortal and project management tools to facilitate communication, task management, and file sharing, keeping everyone on the same page and in sync alongside, leveraging virtual reality and other immersive technologies to host brainstorming sessions and workshops. We actively seek feedback from team members at all levels through surveys, one-on-one meetings, and anonymous suggestion boxes. This helps us identify areas for improvement and refine our approach to collaboration. We recognize that the needs of our teams and the dynamics of our organization will evolve. Hence, we are ready to adapt to the same.
By nurturing these elements, we strive to create an environment where collaboration isn’t just a buzzword but a lived experience. It’s where ideas cross-pollinate, challenges are tackled together, and success is savored as a collective achievement. And that, I believe, is the actual recipe for lasting impact in any field, especially one as crucial as building a sustainable future.” Dr Reji continued.
Envision The Future
To learn more about how Dr Reji Kurien Thomas envisions the future of his industry, we asked, “How do you foresee the evolution of your industry or field over the next 5-10 years? Are there emerging trends or innovations that you anticipate playing a pivotal role?”
Dr Reji shared, “Peering across the next 5-10 years, I see the green tech landscape blossoming into a vibrant ecosystem. Some top trends I believe will craft the future bright green include the democratization of Green Tech. Open-source platforms and affordable solutions will be key, nurturing knowledge sharing and grassroots innovation. Also, we’ll move beyond simply “mitigating” environmental damage to proactively working with nature’s ingenious systems. We’ll learn to speak the language of nature, not just command it.
Besides these, the boundaries between disciplines will blur as AI, robotics, and quantum computing intertwine with green tech, unlocking solutions we can’t even imagine today. From bioplastics that biodegrade in your backyard to lab-grown meat that nourishes without harming animals, biology will become the building block of a sustainable future.
In the upcoming years, green tech won’t be just about saving the planet – it will be about improving human lives; sustainability will become not just a duty but a lifestyle choice driven by access to information and a sense of shared responsibility. With a spirit of collaboration, ingenuity, and unwavering commitment to our planet, the future of green tech is one where nature and technology co-exist hand-in-hand, co-creating sustainability for generations to come.”
Offering A Unique Value
“Take a moment to introduce our visitors to the standout services/products your business offers. What unique value do they bring to the market or consumers?”
Dr Reji replied, “Our services provide comprehensive cybersecurity, integrating cutting-edge technology with insights into human behavior and organizational culture. We focus on leveraging technology for sustainable development. Our plasma tech waste to energy solutions have the potential to eliminate the accumulating toxic waste globally. Our products are designed to address environmental challenges innovatively, combining technological expertise with a deep understanding of sustainability.
The AI-driven analytics and Machine Learning Tools developed under my guidance are designed to provide deep insights into data, facilitating better decision-making for businesses and governments. Recognizing the potential of blockchain technology, we’ve also developed solutions that ensure data integrity and security across various sectors. With my background in computer science and business administration, I’ve overseen the development of IT solutions that align with business strategies, enhancing efficiency and productivity.”
He added, “Given the rapid evolution of technology, we offer educational programs and training workshops to keep professionals updated with the latest trends and skills. Apart from that, we provide consultancy in areas like strategic IT planning, cybersecurity policy formulation, and digital transformation strategies. Reflecting my commitment to sustainability, we’ve introduced technologies that minimize environmental impact while maximizing efficiency.
Also, with my qualifications in alternative medicine, we’ve ventured into integrating technology with healthcare, focusing on personalized medicine and health data management. These offerings are a testament to our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and excellence, providing unique value to our clients and contributing positively to society.”
Suggestions For Beginners
Beginners starting in a similar industry will find it inspiring to hear from an expert like Dr Reji Kurien Thomas. So, we asked, “Drawing from your experience, what valuable advice would you offer to individuals who are just embarking on their journey in this industry? What key lessons have shaped your professional perspective?”
He replied, “As someone who’s navigated the green tech terrain for longer than a fair share of muddy boots, I’d like to offer a backpack full of insights for those just starting their journey. Passion is the fuel that keeps you going when the winds of skepticism blow. Find your passion and your “why,” and let it guide your path. Green tech is a dynamic landscape, constantly evolving and pushing boundaries. Stay curious, be a sponge for knowledge, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Remember, lifelong learning is the key to staying ahead of the curve.
Also, no one achieves green tech goals alone. So, build bridges with diverse stakeholders and learn from their perspectives. Earning real-world experience is invaluable; don’t just theorize; instead, prototype, experiment, and test your ideas in the field. It’s easy to get caught up in the cool tech, but remember, the ultimate goal is to make a difference. Ask yourself – will this innovation truly enhance lives, protect the environment, and create a just and sustainable future?”
“Stumbles are inevitable, but they’re not roadblocks. Learn from your mistakes, adapt, and iterate. Find ways to translate your work into relatable narratives, inspiring others to join your mission. Storytelling is a powerful tool for building bridges and igniting action.
Finally, remember, the green tech revolution is a marathon, not a sprint. Pace yourself, celebrate your milestones, and most importantly, never lose sight of the dream – a future where technology and nature work in harmony, creating a world that thrives for generations to come. Remember, your journey is not just yours; it’s a contribution to a collective effort to build a greener, more just, and sustainable future for all. So, let’s roll up our sleeves, share our ideas, and get to work.” He added.
Game-Changing Innovations
We were interested to learn the perspective of Dr Reji Kurien Thomas on some of the crucial innovations in the industry. So, we inquired, “Given your achievements in technology sciences, what key innovations do you foresee as game-changers in the next decade?”
He replied, “Premium engineered biochar with a carbon credit system, which has both a cation and anion exchangeability that electrostatically attracts certain types of molecules in the soil, air, and water, with enhanced water holding capacity, where microorganisms thrive and help create living soil. It’s a source of renewable energy, improves soils, is a climate change mitigator & transforms waste. It’s an additive for concrete & asphalt and with over sixty applications besides the well known usage for agriculture.
Qortal is another community-driven and developed, completely custom-built, and decentralized system. It has a blockchain-secured distributed data network and is designed to create a completely secure and liberating digital world. Other prominent innovations include sand batteries, xenotransplantation, Brain reading robots, 3D printed bones, etc.”
Dr. Reji Kurien Thomas And Recognition
“Dr. Reji, you’ve been nominated for the highest scientific recognition, and you highlight a specific project that stands out in terms of its impact on sustainability and environmental conservation?”
He replied, “With an unwavering focus on the future, I aspire to the highest Global Prize for Physics in this decade. This is not for any personal accolades but to get a bigger platform of responsibility and decision making in the global community, and I feel this isn’t just a dream but a forthcoming reality. My work in quantum physics, particularly in the realm of quantum computing, has the potential to revolutionize the way we understand and interact with the universe. I feel the much acclaimed Stephen Hawking Global Award awarded to me in Jan 2024, has given feedback that I’m moving in the right direction.
One project at the forefront is the making of the AI-based Telemedicine grid. The unique distinguishing factors of every living being will be stored in a holographic grid, which all the time, monitors the state of the being and deviation from normalcy. If deficient of any hormone or Vitamin, that will be uniquely transmitted to the being to bring up to normalcy state. This is going to change and revolutionize the way the world sees life and stem cell technology.
At Stanford, we have the SRI- Stanford Research Institute, where parapsychology experiments and studies have been carried out for many decades. Everything is undertaken here under strict Laboratory conditions. I’m currently deeply engrossed in a groundbreaking project that holds immense promise for both environmental conservation and sustainable agriculture. It focuses on the development of innovative solutions in the field of sustainable, regenerative agriculture. We are actively working on implementing a cutting-edge concept called Quasi-Quantum Photosynthesis, which has the potential to revolutionize how we address the world’s water crisis. Through this approach, we aim to produce water from air efficiently and sustainably, offering a vital resource for agriculture in water-scarce regions.”
“Additionally, we are committed to the systemic reclamation and remediation of degraded land for agricultural purposes. Furthermore, we’ve been working tirelessly on the development of future-proof farm products such as biostimulants, liquid fertilizers, soil rejuvenators, enzymes, and a range of products for hydroponics, aeroponics, and aquaponics, known as the ‘bioponics’ line.
It’s a testament to our commitment to creating a responsible society and conserving natural resources, and I’m thrilled to be at the forefront of this transformative initiative. I’m humbled and honoured to have been nominated for the world’s highest recognition for scientific-based research in Physics. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to those who have recognized the significance of our work. The nomination is a testament to the groundbreaking discoveries and inventions that have been part of my journey.
Our work in the field of quantum physics and, more specifically, quantum computing has been at the forefront of technological innovation. Through our research and development efforts, we have been pioneering advancements in quantum computing technologies that promise to reshape various industries, from data analysis to cryptography. Also, our work extends beyond the laboratory, as we are committed to translating our scientific advancements into practical applications that benefit society at large.
The nomination serves as both a recognition of our past achievements and a call to action for the future. Our goal is to continue pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge and innovation, driven by a vision of creating a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous world for all. I look forward to collaborating with like-minded individuals and organizations to bring this vision to fruition.”
A Glimpse Of Dr Reji’s Experience
“Dr. Reji, can you share your experience of being adjudged the “World’s Best & Emerging Leader” and receiving awards at the House of Lords, British Parliament, and Military VSC?”
“This was ‘The World’s Best Emerging Business Leader’ at the House of Lords, British Parliament UK in Oct 2022 and again for Global Leadership excellence in Nov 2023. The victory press release read, “Dr. Reji Kurien Thomas is a radical game-changer in the technology industry and has won countless accolades for his meticulous work, which has been a stepping stone in the realms of technology. The evaluation was done as an exceptional business leader with great insight into business strategies, mentorship, and creating innovative ideas. His leadership style encourages followership that every company desires as its top agenda.”
The selection of the World’s Best Emerging Leaders is done through three rounds of Primary and Secondary research from a final research list of 2500 business leaders from across the globe. The ‘World’s Best & Emerging Leader’ award wasn’t just an individual triumph; it was a victory for the global tech community, a recognition that innovation knows no borders and that the torch of progress can be carried by anyone, regardless of nationality or background. My ascent to this recognition serves as a powerful message to aspiring minds everywhere – dream big, work relentlessly, and never lose sight of the power of your ideas to change the world.” the former Naval Commander concluded.
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