Spencer Mae-Croft always knew he wanted to combine his background in computer science with his passion for his hometown. His deep-rooted connection to his small farming community inspired him to envision a future where technology and farming worked hand in hand. This led him to the world of agtech, where he began the ambitious task of building an 800-pound drone.
Mae-Croft’s company, Rogue.Ai, creates drones that help farmers use fewer chemicals in their fields, saving them time and money. This is being made possible by leveraging new cutting-edge technologies. Initially, Mae-Croft was a one-man show, learning to build drones independently, but over time, his passion and perseverance attracted like-minded individuals, and his team grew. This evolution demonstrated that innovation thrives on collaboration.
Like many startups, Rogue.Ai faced financial challenges. The vision was clear, but the funds to achieve it were not. However, Mae-Croft’s breakthrough came when he moved to 16 Tech. Access to advanced tools and machines allowed him to stretch his capital further, continuing development without the b
urden of purchasing expensive equipment. His studio space in Machyne Makerspace launched new connections, including multiple investors who met Mae-Croft while touring 16 Tech.
Rogue.Ai is focused on it’s launch. With this milestone, they can start demonstrations, showcasing drones over Indiana’s farms. These demonstrations are crucial, as they allow farmers to see the drones in action, witnessing firsthand the potential to revolutionize their work. The excitement is palpable, and the team at Rogue.Ai is driven by the belief that they are on the cusp of something truly transformative.
To continue the journey, growth and transition were necessary. Mae-Croft is graduating from Machyne Makerspace and moving on to EMC2, ready to embrace this next chapter with more space while maintaining connections to the 16 Tech community. The move offers Spencer more space for his growing team and product, ensuring that Rogue.Ai can continue to innovate and expand.
“It’s worth it. You go from being misunderstood to people asking how you did it,” Mae-Croft advises other entrepreneurs. His journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and the unwavering belief in a vision. As Spencer and his team look to the future, they are more committed than ever to making a lasting impact on the world of agriculture, one drone at a time.
