Kiel, Germany – Yesterday, Jann Wendt (37), CEO and Founder of north.io, sat down with Schleswig-Holstein’s Minister for Economy, Transport, Labor, Technology, and Tourism, Claus Ruhe Madsen, for an insightful podcast on the “digitalization of the oceans”. The podcast, initiated by Minister Madsen, was recorded at Studio Kabuja in Kiel and touched on the increasing importance of data processing, AI, and maritime innovation.
Minister Madsen opened the podcast by addressing a common misconception: "When people hear the term 'maritime research projects,' they often think of underwater animals, plants, or environmental protection. What many don't realize is that there's a whole world of data processing and AI behind it. Today, Jann Wendt, CEO and Founder of north.io, will explain why this is an exciting and globally important field."
Throughout the conversation, Wendt shared the journey of north.io, from its founding to becoming a leader in the digitalization of maritime data. He explained how the company processes vast amounts of data to protect underwater infrastructure, map ocean conditions, and support environmental initiatives.
Highlights from the Podcast:
- Origins of north.io: Wendt shared how his background in geography and early work with the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Service (Kampfmittelräumdienst) led to the founding of north.io. The company began by digitalizing data to make processes smarter, laying the foundation for their future focus on maritime data and oceanic digitalization.
- Innovative Projects: Wendt highlighted some of north.io's key projects, including the “Argus” Project, which focuses on protecting critical underwater infrastructure like pipelines and communication cables. "Argus uses satellite and underwater data, as well as ship positions, to monitor and protect critical infrastructure. This project is more relevant than ever, especially after incidents like the Nord Stream pipeline attacks," Wendt explained.
- AI and Data Processing: A major part of north.io's work revolves around AI and machine learning. Wendt discussed how these technologies are central to their data processing efforts, enabling faster and more accurate analysis of large data sets.
- International Partnerships: Wendt emphasized the importance of north.io's partnerships with organizations such as NVIDIA, GEOMAR, and Subsea Europe. He described how these collaborations enable the company to push the boundaries of maritime innovation, integrating cutting-edge technology into their projects.
- Kiel as a Strategic Location: Asked about the decision to base north.io in Kiel, Wendt cited the region’s maritime heritage, access to research institutions, and the collaborative environment as key factors. "Kiel is ideal for us—it's at the heart of maritime innovation in Germany," Wendt expressed.
- Looking to the Future: Wendt concluded by sharing his vision for north.io over the next five years. "We want to continue driving innovation in oceanic digitalization, expanding our projects globally, and building on our AI expertise," he said. He also spoke about the growing team at north.io, now composed of 60 specialists from 17 different nations, and the ongoing efforts to attract top talent to Kiel.
In closing, Minister Madsen praised the work of north.io and encouraged listeners to stay engaged with the ongoing digital transformation of the maritime industry.
You can listen to the full podcast on our social media channels in about two weeks. In the meantime you find more podcast episodes with Minister Claus Ruhe Madsen here. For more information on north.io and its projects, follow us on X.com and follow Jann Wendt and north.io on LinkedIn.
Image: copyright north.io
