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Pushing the Boundaries: Jacob Deak on Innovating Water Treatment Systems
Episode 423
In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore interviews Jake Deak, Marketing & Inside Sales Director at Pyxis Lab, for a deep dive into how innovation is born—not in labs, but in the field. Jake shares the story of Pyxis Lab's rapid evolution from a lean, hands-on team to an industry leader in developing smart, user-informed water treatment technology.
Building Solutions from Real-World Problems
Jake Deak's journey began during the pandemic, stepping into a role shaped by both legacy and urgency. Working closely with his father and the Pyxis team, he reveals how their approach centers around listening intently to water treatment professionals and designing products that directly solve the problems they face.
From the ST500 sensor to the OxiPanel, Jake breaks down how each product starts with a call from the field—an operator struggling with membrane fouling, or a technician frustrated by unreliable chlorine measurements. Pyxis doesn't stop at fixing problems; it uses those challenges as fuel for continuous R&D cycles, bringing hardware, firmware, and app-based solutions to life.
Innovation Through Collaboration and Core Values
The success of Pyxis Lab isn't just about technology—it's about a culture deeply rooted in empathy and real-world experience. Jacob discusses the importance of maintaining strong core values and explains how hiring practices focused on field expertise led to better tools and better service for end users.
From Product Development to Media Innovation
Leveraging his media background, Jacob also reveals the upcoming launch of Pyxis Lab's new podcast, "In The Flow." Created to foster industry education and dialogue, this initiative underscores the company's commitment to advancing the water treatment profession through open communication and shared knowledge.
A Clear Takeaway
If there's one message that defines this episode, it's that the best innovations don't begin in isolation—they begin with a conversation. Whether it's a technician venting a daily frustration or a field team asking "what if?", Pyxis Lab listens and acts. And as Jake reminds us, the future belongs to those who adapt, engage, and stay relentlessly curious.
Conclusion
Jacob Deak exemplifies the spirit of innovation that is reshaping the water treatment industry. Through passion, practicality, and persistence, his work at Pyxis Lab offers a compelling model for how technology and human experience can work hand in hand to create better solutions for water professionals worldwide.
Continue expanding your professional knowledge by subscribing to "Scaling UP! H2O" and exploring "In The Flow" by Pyxis Lab. Stay informed, stay innovative, and stay connected to the evolution of water treatment excellence.
Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!
Timestamps
02:17 – Trace Blackmore reflects on eight years of Scaling UP! H2O, building a global community for industrial water treaters
05:10 – Announcement of New Detective H2O Episodes coming for Industrial Water Week
08:04 – Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals
10:15 – Water You Know with James McDonald
12:50 – Introduction to Jake Deak: Background, Family Influence, and Career Journey
16:16 – Core Values at Pyxis Lab and how they shape product development and custome
Published on 6 months, 3 weeks ago