Michael Neiss

Chief Technology Officer @ Rootline Robotics

About

Electrical and Computer Engineering student at Cornell University with a focus on embedded systems, electromechanical design, and hardware development for robotics, biomedical, and autonomous systems applications. My experience spans interdisciplinary product development through Cornell Biomedical Devices, Rootline Robotics, and independent engineering projects involving embedded controls, sensing systems, high-voltage electronics, robotics integration, and real-world hardware prototyping. Most recently, I led engineering development for Cornell’s Farm Robotics Challenge team, contributing to the design and integration of autonomous agricultural robotics and pulsed high-voltage treatment systems for precision weed management. I enjoy working at the intersection of electronics, software, and physical systems –turning concepts into functional devices that interact with and improve the real world. My interests include embedded systems, controls, robotics, biomedical devices, and systems-level hardware engineering. My goal is to continue deepening my knowledge in robotics, hardware, and power electronics, with a focus on developing impactful technologies in biomedical devices and agricultural systems through hands-on engineering and product development work.

Country

United States

City

Guilford

Industry

Information Technology & Services

Skill

Rapid Prototyping, Product Development, Electrical System Architecture, Mechatronics, Circuit Design, Technical Leadership, Power Electronics, System Integration, Information Management, Cost Reduction Analysis, Team Coordination, Time Management, Customer Service, Food Service Operations, Media Relations, Communication, Research Skills, Programming, Collaborative Problem Solving, Product Innovation

Experience

Chief Technology Officer

Rootline Robotics

2026-5 - Present · 5 mos

Ithaca, NY

Co-Founder & CTO leading development of Rootline Robotics’ autonomous electric weed management platform across high-voltage electrical system architecture, power electronics, robotics integration, and field prototyping. Oversees technical strategy and cross-disciplinary engineering development from concept through field deployment. Focused on translating ambitious concepts into deployable agricultural technology through rapid iteration, systems engineering, and hands-on product development. Helped design and demonstrate an award-winning field prototype recognized at the UC ANR Farm Robotics Challenge for innovation, technical execution, and commercialization potential.

R&D Software Engineering Intern

Defibtech, LLC

2026-5 - Present · 5 mos

Guilford, CT

Information Management Student Assistant

Cornell Law Library

2024-8 - 2026-5 · 1 yr 10 mos

Ithaca, NY

Preserve library’s book collection with precision, ensuring accuracy in tagging, while maintaining archival quality within the stacks. Conduct archival research to compile detailed author information, supporting library cataloging and reference initiatives.

Product Developer

Cornell University Biomedical Device Project Team (CUBMD)

2024-1 - 2026-1 · 2 yrs 1 mo

Ithaca, NY

Members of the product development sub-team focus on the design and construction of the project idea. This process generally consists of developing rough prototypes and adopting new iterations that improve the efficiency and practicality of the product. Product developers possess a wide variety of skills including the ability to model with CAD software, 3D print, prototype with Arduino’s, design printed circuit boards, and develop user applications that communicate with our device.

Kitchen-Deli Specialist

Big Y World Class Market

2023-5 - 2026-1 · 2 yrs 9 mos

Guilford, Connecticut, United States

Supported high-volume kitchen and deli operations in a fast-paced customer environment, ensuring efficiency, accuracy, and customer satisfaction through teamwork and time management.