Ian Castillo
Co-Founder & CEO @ HopperX | Founder @ Space Pirate Labs
- Role
- Founder & CEO at Space Pirate Labs
- Location
- Iowa City, IA, US
- LinkedIn followers
- 500 followers
About Ian Castillo
Hi, I\'m Ian.I\'m a product designer and founder based in Iowa City, IA.Currently, I\'m the cofounder and CEO of HopperX, an AI-powered platform designed to modernize operations for agricultural cooperatives and rural businesses. Myself, along with Steve Witmer, are building AI products that help make sense of invoices, documents, and operational data using natural language, automation, and human-in-the-loop review. The goal is simple: reduce administrative drag so organizations can focus on the work that actually matters.I also founded Space Pirate Labs, a digital studio that builds AI tools, interfaces, and creative systems for startups, small businesses, and organizations navigating the next wave of technology. Space Pirate Labs blends design, software, and strategy to help ambitious ideas move from concept to durable products.Previously, I co-founded ArgusAI, where I led product and design alongside Marten Roorda, former CEO of ACT, and Michael Weiler, former CEO of EduPath. Together, we reimagined the college admissions process using advanced algorithms and data analytics, building an AI-driven platform that made admissions more transparent, efficient, and equitable for both students and institutions.Before that, I worked at Labs, an AI-first education company focused on personalized learning. As a Product Manager and Designer on the Learner Experience team, I collaborated with researchers and engineers applying large language models and machine learning to improve educational outcomes. My work centered on designing systems that adapt to people, not the other way around.In every role, the throughline has been the same: use design and technology to reduce friction, clarify complexity, and build tools that feel grounded, practical, and human.
Experience
Founder & CEO
Jan 2022 — Present
Education
University of Iowa
Political Science
2011 — 2013
BloomTech
Full Stack Development
Southeastern Community College
Associate's degree
2009 — 2011
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