EP 4 — Parts Life's Sam Thevanayagam on Solving the Problem of Obsolescence in the DIB

On this week's episode of the DIB Innovators podcast, David talks with Sam Thevanayagam, President and CEO at Parts Life, Inc. and DeVal Lifecycle Support, a leader in life cycle sustainment. They discuss the challenges of end-of-life asset management in the defense industry, and how Parts Life is working to solve those problems with their R.O.P.E. process. They also talk about how to protect IP and the supply chain, being a good steward in the DIB, and advice for young entrepreneurs.

Topics discussed:

• How Sam started Parts Life to solve the problem of obsolescence in the defense industry.
• How the R.O.P.E. process (Rapid Obsolescence Planning and Execution) is a "Tylenol for the headache" of DMSMS.
• The technology Parts Life uses in their processes, like precision cameras and additive manufacturing.
• Why Sam is focused on being a good steward in the DIB by creating solutions and training individuals for new careers.
• The challenge of managing end-of-life processes in the defense industry and how Sam is working to solve it.
• How Parts Life protects its IP by staying vigilant to bad actors and securing their supply chain.
• Advice to young entrepreneurs that includes putting creativity before capital.