Key Takeaways
- Craig Sellars is a well-known figure in blockchain, co-founding Tether (USDT) and contributing to other projects.
- Before blockchain, Craig led wireless tech ventures like Netconx and O2 Secure Wireless as CEO and CTO.
- In 2020, Craig co-founded Self-ID Inc. to help people control their digital identity and personal data using decentralized systems.
Who Is Craig Sellars?
Craig Sellars is a blockchain expert and co-founder of Tether (USDT), a stablecoin connected to the U.S. dollar that reached a market value of $83 billion by 2022. He also co-founded vAtomic Systems and worked as the Chief Technologist for Bitcoin’s Omni Layer.
Craig studied at Georgia State University’s Business School and earned a Computer Science degree from Georgia Tech (2002). He now focuses on creating open-source decentralized identity systems and advises different blockchain projects, including Omni Foundation, Bitfinex, BlockV, and Polymath.
Early Career and Entrepreneurship
In 2002, Craig co-founded Netconx D&C Wireless, LLC, where he worked as Principal for over three years. He helped design and set up large wireless networks for cities and residential areas.
In 2004, Craig became the President and CEO of O2 Secure Wireless, Inc. He led the company’s growth, built important partnerships, and took advantage of opportunities in the growing wireless market.
Leadership Roles in Technology
In 2009, Craig joined Wavelength Corporation as Chief Technology Officer. He was in charge of managing technology, developing systems, and improving services until 2011.
In January 2011, Craig became Senior Vice President of Systems at Pavlov Media. By October 2011, he was promoted to President of Software Solutions and held that role until June 2013. He then became Chief Technology Officer, where he led new technology development and worked with both internal and external teams.
Co-Founding Tether
In 2014, Craig co-founded Tether, a stablecoin on the blockchain connected to the U.S. dollar and backed by real assets in Tether’s reserve account. Along with Reeve Collins and Brock Pierce, Craig served as Chief Technology Officer. He was in charge of managing Tether’s technology, leading the development team, and guiding the company’s tech strategies and decisions.
CTO at Bitfinex
In 2015, Craig Sellars became Chief Technology Officer at Bitfinex, one of the biggest cryptocurrency exchanges. At the same time, he co-founded vAtomic Systems, a company focused on developing new blockchain technologies. Craig also serves as the Chief Scientist at vAtomic, using his knowledge to help with the company’s research and development in blockchain and digital assets.
Co-Founder and Blockchain Architect at Blockv
In 2017, Craig co-founded Blockv, a platform for creating and sharing the next generation of customizable digital tokens (NFTs). As Blockchain Architect, Craig was key in designing and building the technology behind the platform. His work helped Blockv become a leader in the fast-growing NFT space by enabling the creation of customizable and interactive digital assets.
Co-Founder and CEO of Self-ID Inc.
In 2020, Craig co-founded Self-ID Inc., a company focused on changing how digital identity and personal data are owned and shared. As CEO and Interim Chief Technology Officer, Craig leads the company’s vision and development of a decentralized platform that gives people full control over their identity and data. Under his leadership, Self-ID aims to change how personal information is handled and shared online.
Advocacy For Decentralized Identity Systems
Craig’s latest project, Self-ID Inc., focuses on helping people through decentralized identity systems. This project shows his commitment to solving privacy and security issues in the digital world. By creating self-sovereign identity (SSI) solutions, Craig enables individuals to control their personal data, making it safer and less likely to be misused by central authorities.
Commitment To Blockchain Interoperability
Craig has always supported blockchain interoperability, understanding the need for different blockchain platforms to work together smoothly. This would make decentralized apps (dApps) more efficient and scalable, allowing transactions and interactions across different blockchains. His work with Omni Layer, Polymath, and other blockchain projects shows his dedication to creating technologies that connect different blockchain systems.
Continuing To Shape The Future of Blockchain
As blockchain technology grows, Craig Sellars is leading the way. His work with DeFi, stablecoins, and digital identity changes how digital assets are made, kept, and traded. His ability to spot and fix problems shows his ongoing impact in the field.
Final Thoughts
Craig Sellars is a key figure in blockchain, known for co-founding Tether (USDT) and working on many blockchain projects. With his strong background in tech and business, he has played a big role in shaping digital assets, decentralized finance, and secure identity systems.
Through Tether, vAtomic Systems, and Self-ID Inc., Craig is helping people take control of their digital identity and personal data. His focus on making different blockchains work together and his work to improve blockchain technology show he will continue to have a big impact on the industry.
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