Técnico Alumni is a platform that allows former students of Instituto Superior Técnico to reconnect, relive, and reminisce their time at Técnico through access to a network of contacts with other Alumni. It is within the context of this platform’s activities that this interview with Rui Martins, a former student of DEI (Department of Computer Science and Engineering), originally took place, and is now being republished in full.  

To learn more about Técnico Alumni and join the network, click HERE.

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Rui Martins de Almeida is an entrepreneurial leader with more than 25 years of experience in computer engineering and digital transformation. Holding both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree from Instituto Superior Técnico (IST), he founded Maeil Consultores in 1999, focused on software for the maritime sector. In 2010, he created Sevways (Portugal and Angola), a company specialized in ERP systems and industrial solutions, where he serves as Founding Executive Director. More recently, in 2022, he co-founded Stonify, an AI-based digital platform startup for the natural stone sector, taking on the role of COO.

With a strong focus on the digitalization of traditional industrial sectors, his extensive experience lies in integrating emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Industrial IoT, and cloud computing to build innovative and efficient systems. In addition to his entrepreneurial work, Rui Martins de Almeida actively collaborates with academic institutions such as the Politécnico de Santarém, promoting the crucial bridge between technological research and business innovation.

• Why Técnico?

From an early age, I saw Técnico as the epicenter of engineering and innovation in Portugal. It was the place where the professionals who changed the country were trained, and I wanted to be part of that culture of excellence.

• What was it like studying at Técnico?

It was demanding, but transformative. I learned to think in a structured way, to solve complex problems and, above all, to never give up. The collaborative environment among colleagues and the quality of the professors were decisive.

• What did you take most from your time at Técnico?

Analytical rigor and adaptability — two skills that have stayed with me throughout my career. And of course, the friendships I still maintain today.

• What was the best part of the course? And the most challenging?

The best part was realizing over the years how what we learned could be applied to the business world. The most challenging was balancing the intensity of the coursework with my desire to start a business while still a student.

• Can you tell us a bit about the start of your professional path?

I started right after finishing my degree by creating my first company. I’ve always believed that the best way to learn is by doing — so I immersed myself in the business world from day one.

• Tell us about the work you are developing currently.

At Stonify, we are integrating artificial intelligence into management and industrial production systems for the natural stone processing industry, turning data into real-time decisions. I also remain involved in teaching and training projects, connecting academia with companies.

• What have been the major challenges in your career?

Adapting to the speed of technological change and managing teams in multicultural environments, especially between Portugal and Angola, have been constant and enriching challenges.

• What are your plans for the future?

To expand Stonify and consolidate an innovation ecosystem that connects universities, companies, and startups through applied AI programs.

• What makes you proud to be a Técnico alumnus?

Knowing that I am part of a community that continues to lead the country’s technological and scientific transformation, with real impact on people and businesses.

• What are you most proud of in your life?

Turning ideas into sustainable projects, creating jobs and opportunities — and, through that, inspiring young engineers to follow the same path.

(original image: Rui Martins)