Omnitron: From Self-Driving Cars to AI Data Centers

In this episode of Tacos & Tech, Neal Bloom sits down with Eric Aguilar, co-founder and CEO of Omnitron Sensors, to unpack the deep tech powering the next wave of robotics, autonomous systems, and AI infrastructure. From Eric’s early days working on defense sensors and his journey through Google and Tesla, to building one of the most powerful MEMS-based micro-machines on the market, this conversation explores why physical AI is finally having its moment - and what it takes to solve real-world reliability problems at scale.Eric breaks down why LiDAR has struggled to reach mass adoption, how Omnitron rethought the problem from first principles, and why the same core technology is now attracting attention from trillion-dollar hyperscalers looking to radically reduce data center power consumption. Along the way, they dive into biomimicry, energy efficiency, manufacturing constraints, and what it really means to build a “painkiller, not a vitamin.”Key Topics Covered* Eric’s path from Navy research labs to Google, Tesla, and founding Omnitron Sensors* Why LiDAR reliability - not hype - has been the biggest blocker to autonomous systems* How MEMS-based silicon micro-machines replace failure-prone mechanical LiDAR components* The “war on LiDAR” and why cameras alone still fall short in autonomy* Omnitron’s breakthrough in building large, high-force, highly reliable MEMS mirrors* Why physical AI and robotics are converging right now* How Omnitron’s technology extends beyond automotive into AI data centers and optical switching* Saving massive amounts of energy by keeping data optical instead of electrical* The hidden challenges of scaling hardware, manufacturing, and global supply chains* Why MEMS has historically been underfunded - and why that’s changing* Biomimicry as a tool for engineering breakthroughs* Advice for engineers and operators thinking about taking the leap into startups* Why the best startups solve urgent pain, not “nice-to-have” problems* Eric’s very non-consensus taco pick (hint: it’s a legendary San Diego burger)Links & Resources* Omnitron Sensors – https://www.omnitronsensors.comConnect with Eric* Eric Aguilar on LinkedIn This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe