HI, WE ARE KRNLS
Where strategy, feasibility, and research meet technology.
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KRNLS is a boutique firm that focuses on research, implementation, and the design of advanced technologies for community relevant placemaking and economic development. Organizations such as NASA, DARPA, Hyperloop Transportation Technology, and Radius Indiana have all chosen KRNLS for research, project management, and strategic development. Other government agencies such as the US Department of Defense, the borough of Wilkinsburg, and the City of Pittsburgh have also engaged KRNLS for large scale planning, implementation, and smart cities projects.
Co-founded by Olga Pogoda and Scot MacTaggart in 2017, KRNLS is located in Pittsburgh, PA and operates worldwide.
OUR TEAM
principal & co-founder
OLGA POGODA
A believer in community-centric development, Olga leads each study and research project while also studying ethical tech development. Olga serves as an EIR at Carnegie Mellon University and has a deep love for all tea.
co-founder
scot mactaggart
With a love for taking innovation to market and a track record of management and consulting, Scot is the co-founder that helped Olga to build KRNLS, and the wise counsel that helped Joel to learn the wonders of peaty scotch.
director of research & development
joel johnson
With a background in robotics and entrepreneurship, Joel directs KRNLS technology and smart city development initiatives. Joel leads R&D during his work hours but loves camping and rock climbing on the weekends.
government tech + entrepreneurship practice leader
ryan gayman
Ryan has an extensive background in government relations, startup incubation, and advanced technologies. He leads the govtech department at KRNLS and enjoys mezcal tequila and restoring his 110 year old house.
design lead
alyssa andress
A big fan of design, Alyssa produces all video, photography, and graphics for KRNLS. Alyssa is the co-host of a podcast focused on sustainable fashion and is also a big fan of Harry Potter.
content strategist
Natalie Stewart
With deep experience in both the nonprofit and for-profit realm, Natalie is an expert in UX design and data visualization. Natalie is an experienced website designer, a big fan of dumplings, and a world traveler, spending much time in the Middle East.
architect
Gadsden merrill
With an extensive background in manufacturing, design, and equipment maintenance, Gad leads KRNLS construction and development. An expert in biochemistry and random facts, Gad enjoys fishing in his off time.