Jason Rolland ‘01

Senior Vice President of Materials, Carbon Inc.

I've spent my entire career working in early-stage startups and trying to get technologies from the lab bench into products. The work is deeply rewarding but very stressful at times. I love how fast small companies can move and the variety of experiences one can have in a very short period of time. I imagine I'll continue to work with/for small companies throughout my career, but you never know what the future holds! I am currently living in San Carlos, CA with my wife and two daughters. I love science and enjoy reading about a wide variety of topics outside my own discipline. I'm an avid trail runner and spend as much time as possible in all the beautiful parks out here in the bay area!

The work project/initiative I'm most excited about...
the work we've done in novel polyurethane elastomers for 3D-printing has been extremely exciting over the past few years. We've opened up new applications in footwear (with Adidas) and we are continuing to expand our efforts in protective padding and other applications. The combination of new materials with new lattice-generation software capabilities allows us to create new part geometries with clear performance benefits. This is a very exciting field that is still nascent in so many ways.

Fondest Virginia Tech Memory...
meeting my wife, Jennifer!

Words of encouragement to a current Virginia Tech student...
find the right mentors early on in your field. They can open up many doors that you never thought were possible.

One of the most exciting things about working to advance the 3D printing industry...
during the COVID-19 pandemic the world realized how fragile our global supply chains are. Carbon and many other companies showed that additive manufacturing can play a key role in solving this problem and reshaping how we produce parts.

Favorite Virginia Tech tradition...
I love that Virginia Tech maintains the tradition of the Corps of Cadets on campus. It's such a unique and special feature of the University.

One of my 25 current and pending patents, I am most proud of...
dual-cure resins for 3D printing. That was a good one!

I find the most joy in my work when...
my team has solved a major technical challenge that allows us to ship a product.

If I had a superpower, it would be...
building great teams.

Best advice I've gotten...
really understand your improvement areas and surround yourself with people who can help you fill the gaps.

Favorite way to end the day...
on my porch enjoying the beautiful California hills!