The 3D Frontier: Insights on XR Technology with VNTANA’s Ashley Crowder

Welcome to another insightful episode of the SoCal Edge Podcast. This week, we had the pleasure of chatting with Ashley Crowder, the dynamic co-founder and CEO of VNTANA, a trailblazing force in 3D asset management and XR (Extended Reality) solutions. Ashley shared her journey from engineering school to leading VNTANA, and the transformational impacts VNTANA is having on industries from retail to heavy machinery.

Introducing Ashley Crowder and VNTANA

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Ashley Crowder is a visionary entrepreneur with a background in industrial engineering from USC. Her passion for 3D and XR technology was sparked early in her career through a federally-funded research project at the university. Fast forward, and she's leading VNTANA, which offers innovative solutions that simplify and enhance how businesses manage and visualize 3D assets.

The Evolution of VNTANA

VNTANA started with a focus on location-based holographic experiences, quickly gaining traction with high-profile clients like Lexus, Pepsi, and infrastructure companies. Their early success laid the groundwork for developing a cutting-edge platform that empowers clients to manage 3D assets efficiently. The pivot to the software side in response to increasing online engagement needs, especially during COVID-19, proved critical.

Empowering Brands with 3D Solutions

VNTANA's platform is designed to meet the diverse needs of manufacturers and consumer brands, offering streamlined 3D model management that can be easily visualized across devices and platforms. Ashley discusses how they cater to companies like Puma and Kohler, helping them overcome challenges with 3D file sizes and formats, ultimately enhancing online consumer engagement.

The Growing Demand for 3D and AR Strategies

Ashley highlights the growing necessity for brands to adopt robust 3D and AR strategies. She explains how companies can leverage these technologies to gain competitive advantages, as evidenced by increased sales and engagement metrics for those utilizing 3D solutions. VNTANA facilitates this shift by providing the tools needed to optimize and automate the transformation of complex 3D files for various applications.

Innovative Flexibility with Model Ops

At the core of VNTANA’s offerings is their Model Ops system, a flexible cloud-based solution that streamlines 3D model operations for diverse industries. Ashley explains the system's capacity to accommodate different input formats and requirements, demonstrating how VNTANA adapts to various client needs without extensive customization, ensuring seamless integration and operation.

Web XR and the Future of 3D Experiences

A significant part of VNTANA's strategy involves Web XR, which allows for cross-device access to 3D content, enhancing the experience whether through computers, phones, or headsets. Ashley shares insights into how VNTANA is positioned to be at the forefront of this technological advancement, working with leading tech giants to democratize access to 3D on a wide scale.

The Impact of AI and Strategic Collaborations

Ashley also sheds light on how VNTANA integrates AI to enhance their platform’s efficiency and capabilities. Collaborations with AI technology firms and giants like Nvidia are driving innovations in digital twin and simulation models for manufacturers, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in 3D asset management.

Navigating Market Challenges and Opportunities

While global economic uncertainties pose challenges, Ashley remains optimistic about VNTANA's growth. She underscores the potential for 3D technologies to transform industries by reducing costs and improving efficiency – even as companies navigate geopolitical shifts and supply chain disruptions.

The Road Ahead for VNTANA

VNTANA is set on a growth trajectory aimed at becoming the standard backend for 3D platforms. By expanding partnerships and enhancing platform capabilities, they are well-positioned to lead the market in 3D asset management and visualization.

Final Thoughts: The SoCal Edge Advantage

Ashley reflects on how starting VNTANA in Southern California, with its rich network of creatives and technical talent, has been instrumental to their success. This vibrant ecosystem, coupled with strong ties to USC, has provided VNTANA with a unique advantage in the competitive landscape of innovative technology solutions.

Ashley Crowder’s journey is a testament to the power of vision and adaptability in bringing futuristic technologies to life. VNTANA continues to shape the future of 3D and XR technologies, proving that with the right tools, the possibilities are limitless. For businesses looking to leap into the next dimension of consumer engagement, VNTANA offers the roadmap and expertise to succeed.


Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:25 Ashley's Background and VNTANA's Early Days

02:37 VNTANA's Evolution and Key Milestones

03:41 Challenges and Solutions in 3D and AR Strategies

08:43 WebXR and VNTANA's Role

12:41 AI Integration and Future Prospects

18:21 The Challenge of 3D File Interoperability

18:58 Targeting Mid-Size Enterprises

19:59 Pricing and Support Strategies

20:32 Partnerships and Integration

21:37 AI and 3D Technology

24:45 Impact of Tariffs and Trade on Business

27:21 Future of 3D Printing and Digital Rights

29:17 Company Growth and Vision

30:44 Advantages of Starting in LA

Innovation in Manufacturing: Craftsmanship, 3D Printing, and Wellness with Ami Sin

Welcome to an exciting exploration of innovation in the manufacturing and wellness industries with Ami Sin, the CEO and founder of Amazing Lab. In this interview, Art Dicker dives deep with Ami Sin, a pioneer in bridging the complexities of production with the wellness revolution. Her story is a testament to transforming traditional manufacturing into a hub of innovative solutions for startups, especially in the health and wellness sectors.

Ami Sin: A Journey from Tradition to Innovation

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Ami Sin's journey is rooted in her family history of manufacturing, dating back to her grandfather's leadership in a major steel manufacturer in China. With a solid foundation in engineering and entrepreneurial spirit, Ami navigated her way through the family business, providing valuable insights into global manufacturing and supply chain management. This deeply ingrained background set the stage for something extraordinary—Amazing Lab.

From Family Businesses to Founding Amazing Lab

After dedicating over a decade to the family business, Ami Sin moved back to Los Angeles—her educational alma mater and second home. There, she launched Amazing Lab, inspired by her name and a vision to craft solutions for startups facing manufacturing dilemmas. Amazing Lab is tailored for hardware startups, offering vital support and bridging gaps between manufacturing challenges and innovative solutions.

Hybrid Manufacturing Solutions

Amazing Lab's unique approach lies in their hybrid manufacturing solutions that cater to hardware startups. Ami and her co-founder, an experienced engineer, provide resources to help entrepreneurs navigate manufacturing intricacies. They offer insights and methods, such as 3D printing, to efficiently create prototypes, saving both time and costs. Their focus on designing for manufacturing ensures successful product turnarounds without unnecessary expenditures.

Empowering Health and Wellness Startups

Ami Sin's passion extends to her newfound focus on health and wellness industries. Her personal experiences with sports and wellness inspired a commitment to collaborate with companies aiming to improve quality of life. Amazing Lab supports health and wellness startups with comprehensive services, ensuring products move smoothly from concept to production and ultimately enriching lives.

Building a Community of Innovation

Ami Sin envisions Amazing Lab not merely as a company but as a community platform. By connecting with industry veterans and new-age innovators, Amazing Lab fosters a culture of learning and collaboration. As a "people person," Ami emphasizes creating a cohesive ecosystem where talented minds come together to solve real-world problems while propelling the manufacturing industry forward.

The Challenge and Future of Manufacturing

The conversation also delves into the ongoing global manufacturing challenges, including the impact of tariffs and the sheer scale of existing manufacturing ecosystems in places like China. Ami Sin highlights the importance of adaptability and innovation in surmounting these obstacles, underlining Amazing Lab's role in helping startups navigate these complex waters.

Conclusion

Ami embodies a dynamic blend of tradition and innovation, fostering new pathways for startups grappling with today's manufacturing challenges. Her leadership at Amazing Lab is a beacon for entrepreneurs, particularly in the health and wellness sectors, seeking to blend craftsmanship with technological innovation.


Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:45 Ami Sin's Background and Family Influence

02:26 Joining the Family Business

04:03 Founding Amazing Lab

07:18 Challenges in Manufacturing for Startups

11:24 Hybrid Manufacturing Solutions

16:28 Support for Hardware Startups

20:31 Impact of Tariffs on Manufacturing

21:27 Helping Hardware Startups with 3D Printing

22:54 Challenges in Adjusting Supply Chains

23:57 The Role of 3D Printing in Manufacturing

24:55 The Value of Skilled Labor in Manufacturing

26:24 Tim Cook on Manufacturing in China

29:15 Founding the Hong Kong 3D Printing Association

31:21 Passion for Health and Wellness

34:03 Working with Health and Wellness Startups

38:47 The Vision for Amazing Lab

40:36 Building a Collaborative Community

43:58 Conclusion and Contact Information

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:45 Ami Sin's Background and Family Influence

02:26 Joining the Family Business

04:03 Founding Amazing Lab

07:18 Challenges in Manufacturing for Startups

11:24 Hybrid Manufacturing Solutions

16:28 Support for Hardware Startups

20:31 Impact of Tariffs on Manufacturing

21:27 Helping Hardware Startups with 3D Printing

22:54 Challenges in Adjusting Supply Chains

23:57 The Role of 3D Printing in Manufacturing

24:55 The Value of Skilled Labor in Manufacturing

26:24 Tim Cook on Manufacturing in China

29:15 Founding the Hong Kong 3D Printing Association

31:21 Passion for Health and Wellness

34:03 Working with Health and Wellness Startups

38:47 The Vision for Amazing Lab

40:36 Building a Collaborative Community

43:58 Conclusion and Contact Information

 

We interview Lucas Coleman, Director at the World Trade Center San Diego. The WTC works to cultivate a pipeline of export-ready firms, maximize foreign direct investment opportunities, and enhance San Diego’s international identity in order to boost the region’s global fluency and competitiveness.