Helping founders and teams integrate GPT-powered workflows into how they work and build. From 0 to 200 employees, van life to Wall Street, I bridge the gap between human creativity and AI potential.
I'm Chris Cruz — a full-stack builder, automation nerd, and AI strategist based in New York.
I've worked across both startups and corporate giants, helped scale a venture-backed company from 0 to 200 people, built van life rigs, and spoken at AI NYC. Now, I run a boutique AI agency helping founders and teams integrate GPT-powered workflows into how they work and build.
My journey started in Pleasantville, New York, took me through Minnesota, and brought me back to the city that never sleeps. Along the way, I've learned that the best solutions come from combining human creativity with smart automation.
Born in Pleasantville, raised in Minnesota. Studied Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE). Founded a bike rental company to help students move faster across campus. Learned responsibility and resilience early after reuniting with siblings and helping raise my sister.
Selected as a Venture for America fellow. Co-founded a venture-backed startup that grew from 2 to 200 employees with First Round Capital as an investor. Learned how to hire, fire, fundraise, and build from the ground up.
Leading automation and AI initiatives in home lending and transaction enrichment. Shipped large-scale data pipelines, search systems, internal GPT copilots, and modernization architecture for financial infrastructure.
Featured talk at AI NYC on "AI-Powered Investing," showcasing how AI tools democratize Wall Street-level capabilities for retail investors. Focus on practical AI, human creativity, and workflow design.
Salsa dancer and EDM concert junkie. Built a van and lived on the road. Travel addict with Ecuador as my favorite country.
Avid reader of productivity books. Always exploring new ways to optimize workflows and human potential.
Social dining app explorer: Cuculi, 222, Timeleft. Building connections through shared experiences.