Dave Sonders
RO-bot – MICRO Fall 2025
Published May 13, 2026
As part of our ‘Meet Our Founders’ series today, we introduce Dave Sonders, CEO of RO-bot based in Chapel Hill, NC. RO-bot is an AI co-pilot for auto repair technicians.
Q: What problem are you trying to solve and what influenced you to start your company?
A: At my last business, I got to know a bunch of folks working in service departments at car dealerships. I love building things, making things with my own hands, so I have a deep respect for skilled tradespeople. When I saw the crappy software these guys have to put up with, I knew there was an opportunity to make something better.
Q: When did you know you wanted to take an entrepreneurial path?
A: Fairly early in my career, I knew what gave me energy. I love the hunt for a true insight into a problem. Is it really a problem that people care about solving? Is there a unique angle for solving it? When I get a hold of an opportunity like that, building and shaping a solution is incredibly fun.
Q: Who do you look to for advice and mentorship?
A: I love working with people who are super deep in their in a particular industry or discipline. I started my career in consulting so I know a little about a lot of different product categories, but there’s no replacement for the depth of knowledge you can develop over many years in a single industry. Generalists like me need those experts to understand the nuances, the real challenges and needs in their industry.
Q: What other passions do you have besides your business?
A: I love watching nerdy anime and sci-fi movies with my two daughters. I love making things with my hands, so there’s usually a woodworking project or home DIY project I’m cooking on. I’m also a big fan of pretty much any outdoor activity — hiking, biking, skiing, volleyball — just not camping (I prefer to fall asleep dry and comfortable).
While visiting the Triangle, Dave recommends:
- My favorite restaurant here is Little Bull in Durham. You have to get the gambas a la plancha. AMAZING. After that, maybe some Street Fighter II at Boxcar Arcade.
Support Dave and RO-bot by:
- Connect me with folks who work at car dealerships and repair shops!
