Recycling Innovator, Scientist, Team Sport Enthusiast
Ian Goodine is proving that technology, sustainability, and entrepreneurship can—and should—go hand in hand. As the CEO and technical co-founder of rStream, a REMADE member, he’s using advanced robotics and AI to transform the way the recycling industry works. His startup is developing cutting-edge systems that make waste collection smarter, more sustainable, and more efficient. It’s not just innovation for innovation’s sake—it's a solution that directly addresses the growing challenge of waste management in a world increasingly focused on environmental impact.
With a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst and a background that spans scientific research, electromechanical design, and project management, Ian brings both technical depth and business insight to the table. He’s the kind of founder who doesn’t just think about building a great product—he also works closely with partners across the recycling and waste management sectors to make sure the tech meets real-world needs.
What makes Ian’s path especially inspiring is how he’s tied his passion for manufacturing into a business that has the potential to make a global impact. In 2022, while still at UMass, Ian co-founded rStream, which landed him on BostInno’s 25 Under 25 list as well as a 2024 fellowship with Activate. His journey shows you don’t have to choose between science, tech, and doing something meaningful for the planet. You can do it all. If you're interested in robotics, sustainability, or starting your own company one day, Ian’s career is a blueprint for how to turn big ideas into powerful change, which is why Ian Goodine is a Modern Maker.
Q&A with Ian
What is the most challenging part of your job?
The most challenging part of my job is slowing down my inner scientist and remembering to keep it simple to get started! This is counterintuitive for my scientist brain, because I'm eager to consider all of the known constraints and edge cases to jump into the perfect solution. The challenge is until you've tried to solve the problem it's almost impossible to know all the constraints and edge cases. Not being overeager and keeping it simple is a daily challenge.
What is the best part of your job?
I get to show people things they don't know are possible. Great engineering is magic, and interacting with people experiencing that for the first time in their space is motivating.
What would people be surprised to learn about manufacturing or your role in manufacturing?
Data science is a cornerstone of industry that has unlocked great manufacturing processes, supply chains, and operations plans. Direct physical interaction between these data machines and their environment via robotic automation is the next stop in most industries' progression. rStream is reinventing both robotic automation and data science for the waste and recycling industry.
What advice do you have for someone new to the industry or considering manufacturing as a career?
The best thing you can do is find a manager/mentor who is great to spend time with, and knows how uniquely difficult manufacturing is. Once you understand how challenging it is, you'll be inspired by when it is done well.
What makes you excited to go to work on Mondays?
My team is moving first on solving operator's sustainable dilemmas in waste management. Having customers so passionate about doing right by the environment and coworkers boldly solving problems is energizing and reinforces those qualities in myself.
What are the three most important skills for your job?
Communication, creativity, organization
If you didn’t have to work, how would you spend your day?
I could probably live a montage of great food, sports, music, and travel for a few months until I get antsy and start building towards a new project.
What activity gives you the most energy?
Traveling gives me time to step back and get creative
What hobbies make you better at your career?
Team sports has given me a great appreciation for collaboration, fair competition, and the value of practice.
How does the work you do impact the world?
At rStream, we make robots that keep recycling out of landfills and protect our natural environment. Our goal is to simplify waste collection and take guesswork out of saving recyclables.
