Josh Mackanic, a former PG&E engineer, left his job to found CivilGrid, a startup aiming to create a comprehensive database of underground utilities, much like Google Maps.
The problem Mackanic faced at PG&E was all too common: untracked utility lines can lead to costly delays and accidents. His solution? A single platform that aggregates data from various companies and organizations, making it easier for engineers to plan projects.
In a recent $26 million funding round, CivilGrid has gained significant support, including from former employer PG&E. The company has already saved $60 million in paving costs for PG&E through its services.
Mackanic's vision goes beyond just data collection. He envisions CivilGrid not just as a tool for identifying risks, but also as a platform that could help streamline the entire construction process, from decision-making to permitting.
By bringing better visibility to subterranean infrastructure, Mackanic hopes to make urban planning more efficient and less prone to costly delays, improving daily life for all.
