With Sift Stack, two ex-SpaceX engineers are bringing the software that helped launch rockets to the factory floor

In the midst of a rising trend emphasizing physical manufacturing over digital innovation, a new player has emerged in the industry. Karthik Gollapudi, CEO of Sift Stack, along with co-founder Austin Spiegel, both former SpaceX engineers, established their company in 2022, aiming to streamline the design and manufacturing processes for complex machinery, including spacecraft and vehicles. As discussions heat up around significant investments in factory automation, driven by figures like Jeff Bezos, the role of advanced software and artificial intelligence has become increasingly critical. Sift Stack specializes in managing the vast amounts of telemetry data generated during production and testing phases, a need they recognized while developing software tools at SpaceX. Traditionally, companies in the advanced manufacturing sector have relied on generic database tools or custom Python scripts. However, Sift Stack identified a niche for a superior, tailored solution. Their clientele includes major industry players such as United Launch Alliance and various defense contractors, as well as startups focused on robotics and grid management. However, the evolution of AI tools for data analysis has prompted Gollapudi to pivot his company’s focus. The bespoke workflows that once distinguished Sift Stack have become essential features in a landscape increasingly saturated with AI and deep learning technologies. Today, the company’s expertise in managing data infrastructure is proving to be invaluable. Gollapudi noted that their long-term vision is unfolding more rapidly than anticipated, with the need to manage intense data streams from modern, software-heavy machines. Some of the vehicles they work with boast over 1.5 million sensors that transmit data simultaneously, necessitating sophisticated organization and storage for effective AI application. Jeff Dexter, VP of software at Astranis, a satellite manufacturer utilizing Sift's services, emphasized the importance of robust data infrastructure in their operations. With the potential for millions of automated software tests conducted daily, managing data efficiently is crucial for maintaining costs and effectiveness. Dexter remarked on the peace of mind that comes from using Sift’s technology, eliminating concerns about data storage expenses. In a significant milestone, Sift Stack secured $42 million in a Series B funding round in 2025, achieving a post-money valuation of $274 million. This round was led by StepStone, with contributions from GV (Google’s venture arm), Riot Ventures, Fika Ventures, and CIV, indicating strong investor confidence in the company’s innovative approach to data management in manufacturing.