From Digital Twins to Trust: Albert Mestre Escoda’s Blueprint for Startup Success

In the bustling world of technology and innovation, it's often a journey of diverse experiences that lead visionaries to ground-breaking solutions. Today, we had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Albert Mestre Escoda, the Co-Founder and CEO of Intemic.

Diving deep into the realms of data analytics, sustainable business practices, and quality control, Intemic is a beacon for companies striving for more sustainable and efficient operations. But what’s even more intriguing is Escoda's professional journey from a chemical engineer to a tech entrepreneur. The underpinning story? A keen observation about the data generated in industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to oil and gas, and the glaring gap in how this data was processed and understood.

With a clear mission, Intemic now offers platforms for businesses to delve deep into their operational data, ensuring compliance, sustainability, and improved processes. Join us as we embark on this insightful conversation with Escoda, delving into the genesis of Intemic and his own transformative path from an engineer to a visionary tech leader.

From Chemical Engineering to Software Magic: Albert's Unexpected Journey

When you think of a chemical engineer, a tech-savvy CEO might not be the first image that pops into your mind. But that’s the twist in Albert’s tale. He started in the labs, working with beakers and formulas, only to find himself wading deep into the realm of software development. Why the switch? The answer lies in the vast amounts of data industries churned out. Albert mentions, “Everyone has some data they generate in their operations or their quality control." A light bulb went off in his head. It wasn't just about collecting data; it was about understanding it, decoding it to derive actionable insights.

To quench this newfound thirst, Albert didn't just settle on learning how to navigate the tech world; he plunged deep, learning how to code. The driving force? A passion to tackle those big problems that might not seem obvious to the regular Joe. And what's even more fascinating is how all of this culminated into 'Intermec,' a company set on a mission to help businesses not just analyze, but truly comprehend their data, pushing them towards sustainability and optimum quality.

And if you think this transformation was all planned, well, you're in for a surprise. As Albert cheekily adds, "I decided that I wanted to be an entrepreneur and bring value to people and society… but it was improvised, by the way." Sometimes, life's best ventures start without a roadmap, and Albert's journey is a testament to that.

Improvised Beginnings and Angels in Disguise: Albert’s Startup Chronicles

Albert's journey into entrepreneurship can best be described as a winding road, with its fair share of bumps and unexpected turns. "I realized that being an entrepreneur allows you to create the solutions you're missing in the industry," he says, capturing the essence of his venture. "It's incredibly difficult to offer real value to people." His humble admission of starting out in the dark, without a clear business experience or direction, showcases the vulnerability and challenges many entrepreneurs face. Yet, amidst this ambiguity, it's that very spirit of exploration and resilience that leads to learning and growth.

As luck would have it, Albert crossed paths with business angels, Teresa and Brown, who breathed new life into his vision. They say when preparation meets opportunity, that's when luck happens, and this couldn't be truer for Albert. From struggling with his first MVP to finally securing the resources to refine and finalize a sellable product, he highlights the ups and downs that come with being a trailblazer. And as much as entrepreneurship is about innovation and vision, it’s also about finding those angels who see potential when others might see uncertainty.

But, as any founder would affirm, a startup isn't just about the product; it's about the people behind it. Albert admits, “Managing people is a challenge." While initially he thought the chase was about seeking out the right talent, he soon realized the importance of magnetism. "It's better to focus on communicating the right vision… and the right people will come by themselves." This insightful perspective emphasizes the heart of leadership – creating a vision so compelling that it doesn't just attract talent, but retains and nurtures it, fulfilling their needs both professionally and personally.

Reeling in the Right Fish: Albert's Mantra for Team Synergy and Growth

Albert paints a vivid picture of the dance of leadership, likening it to a fishing expedition. "It's like fishing, you put the right food in the water, and you'll catch the right fish," he muses. Rather than chasing potential team members, Albert believes in the magnetic power of offering value - and it's not always about money. As he aptly puts it, "If you know how a person generates dopamine during their work, then you can offer the right food for them." A nugget of wisdom he learned from an incubation program in Spain which underscored the significance of knowing one's team and continuously exchanging value, whether it be knowledge, motivation, or hard work.

But it's not just about people; it's also about flexibility in the way the company operates. Taking a modern, hybrid approach to the work environment, Albert's team divides their time between remote work and their co-working space nestled in the heart of Barcelona. He emphasizes this flexible model for startups, highlighting the importance of adaptability and cost-efficiency, especially when the core product is digital.

Speaking of products, Albert dives into the core essence of Intemic. With an AI platform tailored for manufacturing companies, Intemic is lighting the path for these businesses to not just reduce operational costs and waste but to ensure product quality. "Our AI platform…learns from the patterns. And then it can predict what's going to happen in the future and prevent failures," Albert enthuses. As the company continues to grow its presence in Spain, Albert's commitment to enhancing operational efficiency while safeguarding quality shines through, promising a bright future ahead for Intemic.

Digital Twins, Trust, and the Art of Work-Life Balance: Albert Dives Deep

Albert hits the nail on the head with a metaphor about the duality of life, “There is the day and the night, you work during the day, you rest at night.” As he speaks, it's clear he's a man who knows the intricacies of juggling between the chaos of startup life and the importance of unwinding. The lesson? It's all about finding that sweet spot. "You have to take care of yourself, and keep doing those activities that fulfill you," he muses, suggesting that sometimes the key to navigating the frantic waters of entrepreneurship is as simple as taking a step back and indulging in a hobby. Albert adds, "The work has to be like playing…if it's something that you don't really like, then it's important to ask if you're doing the right thing." Words of wisdom that every burgeoning entrepreneur might want to pin up on their wall.

But it’s not all Zen and relaxation. Albert is equally passionate about the potential of the 'digital twin' – a digital representation of processes based on data. He explains how Intemic's software can create a holistic representation of a company's entire value chain. It’s groundbreaking, ambitious, and speaks to the company's innovative spirit. Yet, at the heart of it, Albert acknowledges the non-technological challenge: trust. Earning the trust of clients isn't just about the nifty algorithms and state-of-the-art tech. It's also about communication, personal relationships, and the art of demonstrating the tangible value of the product.

Albert ends by pointing out his digital whereabouts for anyone curious to dive deeper into Intemic's offerings or just to connect. Whether it's their official website or their active LinkedIn page, Albert and his team seem ready and eager to engage. Here’s to the inspiring leaders who are reshaping industries, one digital twin at a time!

Rusana ShkarabanPodcast Host at Temy

Are you ready to peel back the layers and uncover the real story behind industry leaders’ success? As a Podcast Host and Writer at Bright Founders Talk, that’s exactly what I’m here to do. Whether the journey was smooth sailing or filled with bumps in the road, I’m here to get our guests to remove the smoke and mirrors and share their authentic experiences. We all have a story to tell, and my job is to get to the nitty-gritty of it all, picking their brains to reveal secrets to their success.