Kraken Robotics Mourns the Loss of Founder Karl Kenny
On February 11, 2025, Kraken Robotics Inc. announced the passing of its founder and former CEO, Karl Kenny, at the age of 64. Karl’s visionary leadership and relentless passion for innovation played a pivotal role in establishing Kraken as a prominent player in the subsea robotics industry during his tenure of over 10 years.
Greg Reid, the current President and CEO of Kraken Robotics, fondly remembers Karl as an “ideas man and a builder” whose energy and competitive spirit propelled the company to success. “He will be sorely missed by the entire Kraken family,” Reid added.
A Legacy of Innovation
Karl Kenny’s journey in the marine technology industry was shaped by his deep connection to the sea, stemming from his upbringing in a small fishing village in Newfoundland. With a career spanning 45 years, Karl’s contributions to the field were vast and impactful.
From his early days as a maritime surface officer in the Canadian Navy to his involvement in pioneering projects like the Microsoft mouse and Telepix’s photo e-commerce solutions, Karl’s entrepreneurial spirit was evident throughout his professional endeavors.
In 2012, Karl founded Kraken Robotics with a vision to commercialize compact, lower-cost synthetic aperture sonar technology for unmanned systems. Under his leadership, Kraken gained global recognition for its high-resolution sonar technology, positioning the company as a frontrunner in the industry.
Continuing the Legacy
David Shea, Executive Vice President and CTO of Kraken Robotics, emphasized Karl’s strategic vision and entrepreneurial drive as the driving forces behind Kraken’s success. “Karl leaves behind a legacy of innovation and excellence that we are committed to upholding in our future endeavors,” Shea stated.
As Kraken Robotics navigates the future without its visionary founder, the company remains dedicated to pushing boundaries, embracing innovation, and honoring Karl Kenny’s pioneering spirit. The impact of Karl’s leadership and dedication will continue to shape Kraken’s mission and drive for years to come.
Though Karl Kenny may no longer be with us, his legacy of innovation and passion for the sea lives on in the work of Kraken Robotics, inspiring the next generation of marine technology pioneers.