Former Tesla Product Leader Parag Vaish tapped to drive digital transformation at Evolv Technology

May 10, 2023
Vaish brings an extensive background in technology, having led product innovation for Tesla, Microsoft, Google, Walt Disney Company, and StubHub.

WALTHAM, Mass. -- Evolv Technology, the leader in AI-based weapons detection security screening, is pleased to announce the addition of Parag Vaish to the company’s executive team as chief digital product officer. Vaish brings an extensive background in technology, having led product innovation for Tesla, Microsoft, Google, Walt Disney Company, and StubHub.

In his role, Vaish will report directly to Evolv Technology CEO Peter George to further drive Evolv’s leadership in the digital transformation of the physical security industry. Working closely with Evolv co-founder and chief innovation officer Mike Ellenbogen, Vaish will be responsible for developing new digital capabilities as products that will enhance the Evolv Express screening system by deriving value from the company’s SaaS platform, as well as adding new, unique standalone capabilities to accelerate digital product offerings for Evolv’s prospects and customers.

"We are pleased to welcome Parag to Evolv," said George. "We believe Parag’s expertise identifying revolutionary digital advances will be instrumental in helping us deliver more value to customers from our digital sensor platform, Evolv Express. There has never been a more important time for organizations and enterprises to leverage the most contemporary technology to help address the unprecedented epidemic of gun violence."

“As we approach Evolv’s 10-year anniversary, the epidemic of gun violence has become even more pervasive than when we started the company. We are constantly looking for new innovative ways to create safer zones. Parag brings an impressive track record of identifying value added digital solutions that we believe will enable us to expand and augment the ways we can help make the world safer in the places we live, work, learn, and play,” said Ellenbogen.

Evolv’s state-of-the-art Evolv Express screening solution uses powerful sensor technology with artificial intelligence (AI) to provide safer, more accurate threat detection at unprecedented volume and speed. It instantly distinguishes between threats and the everyday items, so people do not need to always empty pockets and bags. Unlike traditional metal detectors or their upgraded versions, the system allows integration from Evolv Express to numerous security endpoints, such as video management systems (VMS), video analytics, incident management systems, and mass notification systems, all used in a multi-layered security approach intended to keep out adversaries and mitigate as much risk as possible.

“There is an important opportunity to amplify the value Evolv’s AI and machine learning is providing venues today for better safety and experience,” said Vaish. “I have spent my career applying digital innovations to enhance the way we interact with the world – working with Tesla to synergize solar and vehicle through digital products; during my time at Disney to digitally enhance guest experiences; and at Google to build a comprehensive data product to understand consumer trends on a geo-specific basis. It is critically important that we can all move through life feeling safe, with peace of mind. As a father, Evolv’s mission could not be more important to me personally. I believe Evolv is uniquely positioned to leverage its technology to help make the world a safer place and I am compelled to help work to advance our mission.”

Evolv Express weapons detection systems, which screen approximately one million people per day, are currently deployed at over 500 customer venues worldwide, including leading theme parks, sports stadiums, arenas, performing arts centers, industrial workplaces, hospitals, and schools.