VISHWANATH AKUTHOTA

Big Dreams, Bigger Innovations

vishwanath-akuthota

Founder,

Dr. Pinnacle

Coming from a small town where the concept of entrepreneurship was virtually unknown, Vishwanath Akuthota (Vish) has forged a unique path as a researcher in the field of quantum and computer science. Known for his relentless curiosity, Vish approaches problems with the precision of a mathematician and the creativity of a scientist, applying the latest frameworks to uncover innovative solutions. His work often feels like a quest for discovery, driven by a passion for blending mathematical elegance with scientific advancement. Vish’s journey into entrepreneurship was not a planned transition but rather an organic evolution. As he puts it, he was unaware of entrepreneurship as a concept while studying engineering. His experimental nature and deep-seated curiosity about discovery led him to explore small projects in security and AI, which eventually inspired him to establish his company, Dr. Pinnacle. Vish’s niche in AI security involves safeguarding artificial intelligence models, addressing the critical gap between perception and reality in the field. He emphasises the importance of creating secure systems capable of mimicking human thought and actions, reflecting a commitment to advancing technology responsibly. Through challenges and discoveries, Vish’s drive to scale greater heights and his belief that “success is a journey, not a destination” continue to propel him forward in his never-ending pursuit of knowledge and innovation. He shares more in an exclusive interview with TradeFlock. Can you share your milestones and achievements? A significant milestone in my career was authoring the award-winning book The Shadows of Deception, which explores the evolution of intelligence systems through the lens of a character named Alex and establishes the difference between a hacker and a scammer. His book talks more about how Alex, an ex-convicted hacker, saves the world from a big threat and provides the best solutions. This work has been inspired by early AI pioneers and other computer scientists from World War II. This work has driven me to enhance the AI systems, like GPTs and GPSs, and to develop and coin AI 360 services. Additionally, I have authored several copyrighted algorithms, including one for identifying vulnerabilities in applications using generative AI and another for classifying cancer cells in bone marrow.

How has your company evolved, and what are your current focus areas?

Dr. Pinnacle has grown into a leading AI research and consulting firm with a strong focus on innovation. We foster a collaborative environment rather than a traditional hierarchical structure, emphasising guidance and teamwork. Our primary focus is on AI security and quality, where we build and protect AI products with a strong emphasis on safeguarding. Educating our clients is also a key aspect of our work, and they value the expert guidance, insights and solutions we deliver by using the ATS (Advisory, Transformative and Strategic) services for AI 360.

How did you build your team and foster a research-oriented culture?

Building the right team involved selecting individuals who shared my passion for AI and security and had strong research backgrounds. We emphasise a flat organisational structure that values every idea, fostering an environment of experimentation and innovation. Regular brainstorming sessions and a commitment to continuous learning have been key to maintaining our leading edge in AI research.

What is your vision for the company?

I envision Dr. Pinnacle as a global leader in AI and security, known for innovation and ethics. We plan to achieve this through continued R&D, building a top team, expanding into new markets, and forming strategic partnerships. By staying true to our values of integrity and excellence, we aim to make a lasting impact by making humanity better again, along with AI.

What legacy do you hope to leave behind?

I aim to leave a legacy of innovation, resilience, and ethical leadership. I want to be remembered for pushing the boundaries of AI while prioritising security and ethics. My goal is to inspire future technologists to pursue their passions and use technology for good, contributing to a future where AI enhances human potential and creates a safer, more equitable world.

Have you faced challenges in raising funding, and how did you overcome them? What are your plans?

We are still bootstrapped but plan to raise funds by October or November to develop India’s first AI compute engine. Overcoming the gap between hype and reality is a major challenge, as people expect immediate results from futuristic technology without understanding the necessary infrastructure. Traditional mindsets also hinder progress. To tackle these hurdles, I use practical strategies tailored to our needs, such as the “why, what, how, and where” method for goal clarification and planning. My life strategy involves developing a process, iterating to refine it, and evaluating the results, ensuring we stay focused on innovation.

What is your biggest learning experience?

I believe it’s essential to recognise the balance between technology and humanity. We need to harness the power of AI responsibly, ensuring it benefits society as a whole. My journey has taught me the importance of resilience, continuous learning, and the willingness to innovate. As we move forward, it’s crucial to stay grounded and remember that technology should serve us, not the other way around.

What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs in AI and security?

Stay curious and continuously update your knowledge, as AI and security are everevolving fields. Focus on core principles and embrace experimentation, learning from each failure. Build a strong network of mentors and peers for guidance and support. Most importantly, aim to create solutions that positively impact society. Know the difference between reality and truth.