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At VigiLife, innovation is driven by mission. CEO and co-founder Zachary Kiehl believed early on in the power of technology to protect human life, especially in environments where safety risks are part of the job. “I’ve always believed in the intersection of people and technology to do powerful things,” Kiehl says. “Our goal is to remain vigilant over what matters most—human life.”
That belief took shape years ago inside a C-5 aircraft at an Air Force maintenance depot, where workers in confined, high-risk spaces were once monitored with ropes tied to their legs. If a worker stopped tugging back, safety personnel knew something was wrong. It was an outdated system and one that inspired change. With support from the U.S. Air Force through the SBIR program, Kiehl helped transform that process using sensors, wireless networking, and data analytics. What began as a prototype evolved into a life-saving technology and, eventually, a company.
Today, VigiLife’s flagship product, SafeGuard, uses wearable sensors, contextual analytics, and artificial intelligence to monitor individuals in hazardous environments—from factory floors to flight lines. Its companion solution, Shield, is built to meet the most rigorous industrial safety standards, extending protection into areas traditional sensors can’t operate. Together, they bring real-time awareness to heat stress, air quality, and other environmental risks. “When we had our first confirmed life saved,” Kiehl recalls, “that was the moment we knew we were making a real impact.”
As VigiLife expanded from concept to company, one thing became clear: meeting this mission would require resources and the right investors to help scale. “We needed to attract great engineers, build critical systems, and do it all with safety as our top priority,” Kiehl says. He turned to angel networks, securing early investment that brought both funding and guidance. “The best investors don’t just write checks. They bring knowledge, experience, and introductions that make all the difference.”
The journey of raising capital also reshaped Kiehl’s perspective as a founder. “A lot of engineers want to stay in the lab, but fundraising is really about learning to tell your story,” he explains. “Investors need to see that you’ve done the work—you’ve talked to customers, built traction, and understand why now is the time.”
Entrepreneurs’ Center (EC) has been an important partner in VigiLife’s growth, connecting Kiehl with mentors, investors, and fellow innovators who share his mission-driven mindset. “I’ve found so much support in this community,” he says. “People here are willing to extend a hand, whether it’s advice, a check, or an introduction.” By bridging founders like Kiehl with aligned investors and resources, EC helps turn technologies like VigiLife’s into scalable, life-saving solutions.Progress happens faster when great minds build together. If you’re a founder looking for the right partners to help your business grow, let’s connect. If you’re an investor who wants to help empower the next generation of innovators, reach out here.
