ESGP PhD student Kendall Byrd is pioneering eco-friendly water treatment through his startup, Caddis Tech. Inspired by his early research using aerial drones for lake monitoring, Byrd developed MANTA, an aquatic drone that disinfects lakes and reservoirs using UV-C light—eliminating the need for chemicals. Described as “a Roomba for water,” the device has earned national and international patents, won multiple business competitions, and attracted over $375,000 in grant funding.

Leveraging an early interest in engineering and mentorship from OSU advisor Dr. Jiyoung Lee, Byrd founded WaterWise Technologies in July 2024, later rebranding as Caddis Tech. MANTA became operational in Spring 2025, and Byrd now leads a growing team serving regional clients. Balancing his PhD research, startup, and even a part-time job, he credits his progress to decisiveness and persistence. “There can’t be movement without decisions,” he says, reflecting his belief in learning through action and iteration.