Moray software engineer named Strathclyde's Alumnus of the Year
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A LOSSIEMOUTH man who helped bring some of Pixar's best-loved characters to life has been named as the University of Strathclyde's Alumnus of the Year.
Dr Martin Reddy was involved in the production of some of the animation company's biggest films during his six years as lead software engineer with the studio.
That included favourites such as Finding Nemo, Cars, The Incredibles, Ratatouille and Wall-E.
He later co-founded PullString – originally ToyTalk – a company that provided artificial intelligence technology.
That company – most recently valued at $163 million – was acquired in February by Apple, where Martin now leads a team of engineers working on the Siri voice assistant.
Dr Reddy was born and raised in Lossie, where he attended St Gerardine's Primary before going on to Lossiemouth High.
He graduated with a BSc Honours degree in Computer Science from Strathclyde in 1993 and then moved to Edinburgh University to study for his Phd.
His Mum Frances, who still lives in Lossiemouth, said her son was always interested in software development but his ambition was to be a helicopter pilot in the Royal Navy.
However, once he started at Strathclyde other possibilities opened up to him and he has never looked back.
Speaking as he was presented with the honour during a graduation ceremony at Strathclyde, he said: "I first came to Strathclyde almost 30 years ago and the knowledge and skills that I learned here set me up in my career and ultimately led me to where I am today.
"The other big effect that Strathclyde had on my life is in terms of the people I met here and the relationships I formed; connections that have turned into life-long friendships over the many years since graduating."
Addressing graduates after receiving the special award, he said: "Don't be afraid of big changes or of the perception of failing.
"It's all just part of charting your own course through life. But as you chart that course, be mindful of the people you work around, because to truly do great things in life you will have to rely on other people."
Professor Neil Ghani, head of the university's Computer and Information Sciences department, gave the oration for Dr Reddy.
He said: "Martin has, through his life, been an exemplar of the ambition, innovation, and people-centredness we value at Strathclyde.
"Martin has demonstrated exceptional vision, ambition and innovation and has always retained close links with Strathclyde.
"His work has touched nearly all of us and helped change the environment we live in."
Dr Reddy has also published more than 40 academic papers, written two books, and has nine issued patents.
In addition, he is a 2nd degree black belt in taekwondo, a four-time UK champion in the martial art of tukido and has gained his glider pilot's licence.
