Tom Driscoll on Clear Communication and the Future of Radar Tech

Tom Driscoll, founder and chief technology officer of the Seattle-based firm Echoydne, emphasizes the importance of clear communication in the tech industry. With a PhD in physics from the University of California, San Diego, Driscoll has dedicated his career to developing radar technology using metamaterials for both commercial and defense applications. His previous role as managing director of the Metamaterials Commercialization Center at the technology incubator Intellectual Ventures has further shaped his perspective on the challenges of effective communication in complex fields.

Driscoll believes that the difficulty of communicating technical concepts is often underestimated. He asserts, “Crafting clear communication is something that I try to give extra time and attention to myself.” This commitment extends to his team at Echoydne, where he encourages open dialogue and clarity in discussions surrounding technology and product development. As the company navigates advancements in radar technology, Driscoll sees every task, regardless of size, as a vital contribution to creating a safer world in the face of increasing threats from autonomous weapons.

While Driscoll is passionate about his work and the talented individuals he collaborates with, he openly shares his frustration with PowerPoint presentations. He describes it as “the least effective and most time-consuming ways of communicating ever created.” Despite this sentiment, he acknowledges the necessity of adapting to customers’ preferences, which often means using PowerPoint in business settings.

Reflecting on his journey in the hardware start-up realm, Driscoll notes that anyone who believes developing a product will take only three to four years is misinformed. He describes the past 11 years as an incredible learning experience, stating, “I believe that learning things is often more valuable than knowing things.”

Driscoll’s insights highlight a broader issue in the tech industry: the need for clear and effective communication, particularly as teams expand and projects grow in complexity. His perspective serves as a reminder that no matter the advancements in technology, the human element of understanding and communication remains crucial.

If given the opportunity to revisit his early career, Driscoll expresses a desire to make adjustments. Yet, he firmly believes that the learning process is invaluable, stating, “Would I hand myself a cheat-sheet that let me skip all the learning? Absolutely not!” This commitment to growth and clarity reflects not only his personal philosophy but also the culture he aims to foster within Echoydne.