NAN110: Bridging Industry, Academia, and the Future of Network Automation with Dr. Levi Perigo

Eric Chou sits down with Dr. Levi Perigo, a Scholar in Residence and Professor of Network Engineering at the University of Colorado, Boulder. The conversation delves into Levi's unique career trajectory, which began in the network automation industry before pivoting to academia and co-founding QuivAR.

Levi Perigo's journey in the field of network automation spans over two decades. Initially, he worked in the industry, where he gained hands-on experience and insights into the challenges and opportunities that organizations faced. This practical knowledge laid the foundation for his future endeavors. After years of working in the industry, Levi decided to shift gears and transition to academia. This non-traditional career path allowed him to blend his industry experience with academic research, fostering innovation and collaboration between the two worlds.

As a Professor of Network Engineering at the University of Colorado, Boulder, Levi's role as a Scholar in Residence enables him to bridge the gap between industry and academia. He leverages his industry background to inform his research, ensuring that it remains relevant and practical. Simultaneously, his academic position provides a platform to share his findings with students, colleagues, and industry professionals, driving advancements in network automation.

One of the key outcomes of Levi's academic journey is the co-founding of QuivAR, a company that focuses on developing advanced network automation solutions. QuivAR's work is deeply rooted in the research conducted at the University of Colorado, Boulder, showcasing the potential of collaboration between academia and industry. By combining cutting-edge research with real-world applications, QuivAR aims to revolutionize network automation, making it more efficient, scalable, and adaptable to the ever-evolving technological landscape.

During the interview, Levi discusses the success of the CU Boulder program, which has been instrumental in nurturing the next generation of network engineering professionals. The program's curriculum is designed to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical industry experience, preparing students to tackle complex challenges in the field of network automation. This holistic approach not only benefits the students but also strengthens the ties between the university and industry partners, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.

Levi's career serves as an inspiration for those navigating their own professional paths. By embracing change and leveraging diverse experiences, he has made significant contributions to the field of network automation. His work at the University of Colorado, Boulder, and co-founding QuivAR highlight the importance of collaboration between industry and academia in driving progress and shaping the future of network automation. As the field continues to evolve, Levi's insights and expertise will undoubtedly play a crucial role in bridging the gap between theory and practice, ensuring that network automation remains at the forefront of technological advancement.