Dissatisfied with his education at home, José Rizzo studied mechanical engineering in the United States thanks to the sacrifice and support from his family.

Access to emerging technologies along with insights into the future of automation generated many ideas, including the goal of starting an impact business.

After completing his studies, Rizzo returned to Brazil to work for a multinational company, gaining experience in the manufacturing, product development, and sales functions.

On one of his many business trips to the United States, he meets up with one of his university colleagues and together they discuss options for creating a new business.

In 1996, they founded Pollux Automation with the goal of increasing Brazil's industrial competitiveness and brought on 4 technology experts to join them.

After a difficult start, the company began to gain strength with its technology and within five years it was recognized as one of the most innovative companies in the country.

Pollux received the FINEP Technological Innovation Award, received the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award, and consecutive capital contributions from investors.