We’ve all seen the devastating images – wildfires turning entire neighborhoods into ash, communities scrambling to recover, and ecosystems disrupted for decades. But what if we could stop these fires before they even begin? That’s the ambitious mission of ThreeV Technologies, and I had the chance to sit down with their CEO and Co-Founder, Eren Aksu, to dive into how they’re using AI and computer vision to support fire management efforts and beyond.

This conversation was particularly timely, occurring during the huge fires in LA (Palisades Fire) in the winter of 2025. Eren and I kicked things off with a sobering reminder: fires are hitting closer to home, and more frequently than ever. Eren’s own old home in Malibu was lost in the fires, and the emotional weight of that experience isn’t just personal – it’s what fuels his drive to prevent future disasters.

From History Buff to Tech Innovator: Eren’s Unexpected Journey

Eren took an unconventional path to becoming a tech entrepreneur. Originally from Istanbul, Eren was fascinated by history, particularly how civilizations overlapped in spaces like the Hagia Sophia. He even dabbled in augmented reality projects during his time at the University of Virginia, imagining ways to bring historical sites to life.

Over time, Eren transitioned from reimagining the past to safeguarding the future. His work with ThreeV Technologies is rooted in the same curiosity – how can we see the unseen? Only now, instead of historical layers, he’s focused on detecting risks hidden within our infrastructure.

So, What Exactly Does ThreeV Technologies Do?

In layman’s terms, ThreeV uses computer vision to analyze visual data – think satellite images, drone footage, thermal cameras, and even photos from smartphones. Their AI models scan these images to detect risks like damaged utility infrastructure, forest vegetation encroaching on power lines, or even potential methane leaks from gas pipelines.

Imagine it like this: instead of waiting for a routine inspection or a catastrophic event, utilities can get an “MRI scan” of their infrastructure. These scans help identify “stage one cancers” – minor issues that, if left untreated, could spiral into full-blown disasters.

Beyond Fire Prevention: A Broader Vision

While ThreeV is laser-focused on preventing utility-caused wildfires right now, their ambitions stretch far beyond that. Their long-term goal is to become the AI powered guidance layer for all physical infrastructure operations & maintenance and are already thinking about adjacent but very similar industries like inspections for gas companies to detect methane leaks – another silent but deadly hazard. The beauty of their technology is its versatility and flexibility of their platform. Whether it’s inspecting power lines or pipelines, the core principle remains the same: spot the problem before it becomes a crisis.

This multi-industry approach isn’t about diluting their mission; it’s about scaling impact. As Eren put it, “A methane explosion is just as devastating to a community as a forest fire.” The common thread? Both can be prevented with better, smarter inspections.

The Tech Behind the Mission: Why This Matters for Fire Management

For those of us invested in Fire Management and sustainable forestry, ThreeV’s work is more than just a cool application of AI – it’s a game changer. The company’s ability to process diverse data sources means they’re not limited to one method of inspection or collection. Whether it’s drones flying over remote forests or iPhones and tablets looking at individual structures from the ground up, ThreeV’s AI models can handle it all.

This flexibility is crucial because wildfires don’t wait for convenient conditions. They strike in the most unpredictable ways, fueled by climate change and aging infrastructure. ThreeV’s technology bridges that gap, offering utilities and forest managers the tools to stay ahead of these threats.

Proving a Negative: The Challenge of Measuring Success

One of the most fascinating parts of our conversation was tackling the age-old problem of proving a negative. How do you show the value of something when the whole point is to prevent disasters from happening in the first place?

Eren was candid about this challenge. “We don’t guarantee that a crack we find today will cause a failure in two years,” he explained. But what they can guarantee is a higher level of accuracy and much more cost-efficient risk assessment than traditional methods. Their AI models are already as precise as human inspections at a fraction of the cost, and they continually improve as more data comes in.

In a world where we’re losing seasoned inspectors to retirement faster than we can train new ones, this kind of AI-driven support isn’t just helpful – it’s necessary.

Why This Matters to Talking Tree Ventures

At Talking Tree Ventures, we’re always looking for transformative technologies that intersect with sustainability, Forest Economics, and Forest Restoration. ThreeV Technologies embodies this intersection perfectly. Their work isn’t just about preventing fires; it’s about creating more resilient communities and ecosystems.

The ripple effects are enormous. Preventing wildfires protects forests, which in turn preserves biodiversity, maintains carbon sinks, and supports the global fight against climate change. It also safeguards homes, businesses, and livelihoods – demonstrating that technology can serve both economic and environmental goals.

What’s Next for ThreeV Technologies?

ThreeV is gearing up for their seed round of funding, and from the sounds of it, they’re poised for big things. The traction they’ve gained in just a year is impressive, and as they expand into new sectors, their impact will only grow.

Eren isn’t too worried about competitors catching up. The expertise and investment required to do what they’re doing isn’t easy to replicate. They’ve found their niche and are running with it.

Final Thoughts: The Human Side of Innovation

What struck me most about my conversation with Eren wasn’t just the technology—it was the heart behind it. This isn’t just a business for him; it’s personal. Having seen the destructive power of wildfires up close, he’s committed to making sure fewer people have to endure that loss.

It’s a powerful reminder that at the core of every great innovation is a human story. And as we continue to explore the intersection of technology and sustainability at Talking Tree Ventures, stories like Eren’s inspire us to push the boundaries of what’s possible.

If you’re as intrigued by ThreeV Technologies as I am, I encourage you to reach out, whether you’re an investor, a potential partner, or just someone passionate about sustainable tech. Let’s connect and see where these conversations can lead.

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