Stepping into the world of Flying Orca, a company specialising in ROV (remote operated vehicle) technology, and my host startup for the Shenzhen Startup AdVenture, felt like diving into uncharted waters.
As an intern, I was eager to learn, but also slightly apprehensive about navigating the technical complexities and startup dynamics. What unfolded over four weeks was a whirlwind of discovery, from deep-dive technical learning to exploring the vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem of Shenzhen, China.
Week 1: Foundations and First Impressions
My journey began with introductions. My mentor and Flying Orca founder, Jack, immediately set a welcoming tone. His passion and knowledge were evident, making us feel like part of the team from day one. The initial focus was on grasping the intricacies of ROVs and Flying Orca’s business model. While detailed documentation was provided, Jack's in-depth explanations were invaluable. I quickly realised that understanding the Product Manager role required more than just technical knowledge. Bridging the gap in software, communication, and electronics expertise became my first challenge, one I tackled with Jack's guidance and dedicated self-study. Evenings were just as enriching, with dinners and conversations that broadened my perspective beyond the office.
Week 2: From Research to Real-World Applications
A conversation with a local Professor about his cutting-edge underwater perception and communication research sparked a quest to find practical applications. This led me down a rabbit hole of academic papers on swarm robotics, computer vision, and more. While the potential was vast, the reality was that only the edge computing feature was currently reliable. This realisation highlighted the importance of aligning innovation with present capabilities. Our trip to Guangzhou to meet state-funded investors and witness the Guangdong Bay Area’s entrepreneurial spirit further emphasised the connection between technology and market viability.
Week 3: Product-Market Fit and Go-To-Market Strategies
This week we gained some transformative insights into Product-Market Fit (PMF). We learned the importance of aligning product development with customer needs, a concept I explored with the diverse perspectives of my fellow intern, Bec. Combining my technical background with her understanding of social, legal, and economic factors, we defined potential markets and conducted competitive analyses. The focus shifted to Go-To-Market (GTM) strategies, with a lean approach favouring online platforms like Aliexpress. A visit to the Huawei Campus underscored the diverse philosophies driving tech companies.
Week 4: Real-World Applications and Strategic Insights
The final week was a blend of practical applications and high-level strategic consultations. Upgrading simulation hardware at an oil and gas company provided hands-on experience, while a session at Alibaba offered invaluable advice on business strategy for hardware startups.
Reflections and Growth
Jack’s mentorship throughout the 4 weeks was pivotal, offering both professional and personal guidance. He fostered an environment where learning was encouraged and accessible. This internship was a startup simulation, allowing me to apply and refine my skills in product development, business strategy, and networking. The technical focus pushed me to explore niche areas like underwater communication and IoT management, teaching me how to learn in unstructured environments.
Beyond the professional realm, the camaraderie built during evening activities and weekend trips was invaluable. Navigating new environments and challenges with my cohort created lasting bonds and expanded my network beyond my degree. This experience was a blend of technical immersion, strategic thinking, and cultural exchange, solidifying my understanding of the startup ecosystem and preparing me for future entrepreneurial endeavours.
I am immensely grateful for this opportunity to explore the Shenzhen startup scene and develop a deeper understanding of the technologies and strategies that drive innovation.
