Jacob Tyo

AI Lead at Raft

AI lead at Raft. Dr. Tyo spoke with AIWVU in October 2024 about his work at Raft.

Dr. Jacob Tyo holds a Ph.D. in Machine Learning from the School of Computer Science at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU). His dissertation, titled “Learning Models that Match,” introduces novel algorithms for contrastive multiple instance learning, which are designed for matching tasks in environments with extremely noisy data. His research also presents new datasets and methods for applying machine learning to off-road racing, as well as the first meta-learning algorithms that automatically learn risk functions in risk-sensitive settings. Previously, Dr. Tyo served as the CEO of Performance Photo, a startup that applied advanced photo search technology to the off-road racing industry. 

Currently, Dr. Tyo is the AI Lead at Raft, where he leads the development of an intelligence layer that enables non-technical users to build complex AI workflows effortlessly. Raft’s mission is to eliminate the barriers of limited system functionality—if a user wishes the system could perform a task, they can now build it themselves. Raft is also developing StarSage, an AI assistant for fighter pilots, and the Raft Data Platform, a weapons-grade data platform powering critical missions for the Special Operations Command, the Air Force’s Advanced Battle Management System, and other cloud-based command and control systems.