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

Eric Chou recently sat down with Dr. Levi Perigo, a Scholar in Residence and Professor of Network Engineering at the University of Colorado, Boulder. The conversation centered around Levi's unique career trajectory, which began in the network automation industry before pivoting to academia and co-founding QuivAR. This interview offers insights into the intersection of industry, academia, and the future of network automation.

Dr. 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 a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within network automation. This practical exposure laid the foundation for his later work in academia and innovation.

Perigo's transition from industry to academia was driven by a desire to bridge the gap between real-world applications and theoretical research. He recognized that collaboration between industry and academia could lead to more effective solutions for complex network management problems. This vision led him to join the University of Colorado, Boulder, where he now serves as a Professor of Network Engineering and Scholar in Residence.

At CU Boulder, Perigo's research focuses on advancing network automation technologies, with a particular emphasis on enhancing network resilience and efficiency. His work has been instrumental in shaping the future of network management, as he strives to create systems that can adapt to dynamic environments and self-heal from failures.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Perigo co-founded QuivAR, a startup that leverages advanced automation techniques to optimize network operations. The company's mission is to address the growing demand for efficient and reliable network management in today's interconnected world. QuivAR's solutions have been well-received in the industry, highlighting the practical applications of academic research and the potential for startups to drive innovation.

The success of QuivAR and Perigo's academic work at CU Boulder underscore the importance of collaboration between industry and academia. By combining industry experience with academic rigor, researchers can develop solutions that are both theoretically sound and practically viable. This interdisciplinary approach is crucial for addressing the complex challenges of network automation and ensuring that networks remain resilient and efficient in the face of evolving threats and demands.

Dr. Levi Perigo's career path exemplifies the benefits of bridging industry and academia. His journey from industry practitioner to academic researcher and startup co-founder demonstrates the potential for innovation when these two worlds come together. As network automation continues to evolve, the insights and collaborations generated by individuals like Perigo will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of network management and ensuring the reliability and security of our interconnected systems.