Elder Research
Data science and AI consulting firm developing predictive software for additive manufacturing, including RAMBO (Rapid Additive Manufacturing Build Outcomes) to predict 3D-printed metal part quality for NASA.
- CEO / Founder
- Gerhard Pilcher
- Team Size
- 51-200
- Stage
- Subsidiary
- Total Funding
- $1M
- Latest Round
- Venture Round
Technology & Products
Key Products
RAMBO (Rapid Additive Manufacturing Build Outcomes) - predictive software for AM; Data science and AI consulting services; Predictive analytics and machine learning solutions
Technological Advantage
Proprietary predictive modeling approach for AM build outcomes, developed through NASA STTR funding, providing a data-driven method to anticipate part quality issues before production. The advantage is based on algorithmic expertise and domain knowledge, which is protectable through trade secrets and proprietary methodologies.
Differentiation
Value Proposition
Reduces risk and cost in AM part qualification by predicting build outcomes before printing, enabling faster adoption of 3D-printed components in mission-critical systems.
How They Differentiate
Unlike general-purpose simulation tools from Ansys or Hexagon, Elder Research focuses on predictive analytics and machine learning applied to AM build outcomes, leveraging its data science consulting background rather than traditional physics-based simulation.
Market & Competition
Target Customers
NASA, aerospace/defense organizations, and government agencies
Industry Verticals
Aerospace; Defense; Government; Energy; Financial Services
Competitors
Ansys (simulation software for AM); Simufact (now Hexagon, AM simulation); Materialise (AM software and services)
Growth & Milestones
Growth Metrics
Serves hundreds of leading organizations; approximately 177 employees as of May 2026.
Major Milestones
Founded in 1995 by Dr. John Elder; Acquired by MANTECH International Corporation; Awarded NASA STTR Phase I and II for RAMBO project
Notable Customers
NASA; bp; Anheuser-Busch; Capital One; Pfizer; GEICO; Fannie Mae; HP; Allstate