Damien Patton - An American Encore

From navigating the streets of Los Angeles as a teenage runaway to finding purpose in the high-stakes world of NASCAR, Damien Patton’s life is anything but ordinary. With a long beard and a resilient spirit, Patton has turned every challenge into an opportunity. As an entrepreneur, engineer, and founder of Banjo, his groundbreaking work in real-time event detection has left a lasting impact across multiple industries. Patton’s journey, characterized by both professional triumphs and personal transformation, is the quintessential picture of American grit.

Charting a New Course

Patton’s career took off on the aircraft carrier Kitty Hawk when he joined the U.S. Navy in 1991. Rising through the ranks, he completed two tours of duty, eventually ending his military career in San Diego, California. During his time in the Navy, Patton acquired invaluable leadership skills, although he would later realize that leading in business required a different approach.

Trading the waves for the roar of racecars, in 1993 Patton joined NASCAR as a pit crew member. His knack for problem solving and relentless drive lead to him becoming the chief mechanic for a team sponsored by Lowe’s. Over eight years, Patton not only mastered the art of precision under pressure but also earned a business degree. His NASCAR chapter was more than just a job—it was a launchpad for his future aspirations.

Building Business Success

Patton’s business career began in the most unlikely of places: the flooring industry. With no prior experience, he relied on his natural problem-solving skills and a bit of innate curiosity to navigate this unfamiliar field. Spotting a market opportunity, Patton built a thriving hardwood flooring business from the ground up. His eye for potential and unwavering dedication led the company to flourish, ultimately allowing him to sell it at a profit. This laid the foundation for Patton’s next business venture and gave him the confidence to relentlessly pursue opportunities he’s passionate about.

Innovating with AI

In 2010, Patton founded AI event detection company Banjo, aiming to revolutionize real-time event detection through data from social media. His success in various hackathons, including the Google hackathon, helped Banjo gain significant funding and recognition.

Driven by his determination, Patton led the company in developing cutting-edge algorithms and AI capabilities. These innovations provided invaluable insights for first responders, journalists, and businesses. One of Banjo's notable achievements was its technology confirming the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17. This milestone highlighted the immense potential of real-time data analysis in delivering accurate and timely information during critical events.

Leading by Example

Patton’s work at Banjo was only a small part of his impact. Drawing on the leadership skills he honed in the Navy, he adapted his approach to meet unique dynamics and personalities in the business world, becoming a mentor to many. His leadership was key not just in driving the future of AI, but also nurturing talent within the company.

During his time at Banjo, Patton mentored numerous engineers, guiding their professional development and helping them navigate the challenges of their careers. Even in his earlier days in the flooring business, he provided crucial guidance to an engineer who worked for him, shaping their career path with his insights and support.

Confronting Challenges of the Past

Damien’s journey has been a testament to resilience, but it’s also been marked by significant challenges. In the spring of 2020, a journalist uncovered Patton’s past involvement with white supremacist groups during his teenage years in Los Angeles. The negative media attention was swift and unrelenting. It became clear that his past mistakes would have significant consequences and Patton resigned from his position as CEO.

The controversy was a painful reminder of a misguided youth and the lasting repercussions of his decisions. But it also marked a turning point for Patton—a moment that demanded deep reflection and a commitment to personal growth and change.

The Road to Redemption

Humbled by his experiences, Patton refused to let his teenage years define his legacy and he set out on a mission for redemption.

One of Patton’s proudest moments is the experience he arranged for Glenda Watson Hyatt and her husband at the Richard Petty Racing Experience. Hyatt, a motivational speaker with cerebral palsy, and her husband, also in a wheelchair, had always dreamed of riding in a racecar. Despite the logistical challenges, Patton ensured they had an unforgettable experience, showcasing his dedication to making dreams come true for everyone, regardless of their circumstances.

It’s moments like this that highlight not only his professional expertise, but his profound dedication to helping others.

His work with the Anti-Defamation League further exemplifies his commitment to positive change. Leaning on his experiences, Patton promotes understanding and reconciliation, turning adversity into opportunities for growth and unity. In spite of the experiences he's overcome, his actions consistently demonstrate an unwavering belief in the power of kindness and the importance of standing up for what's right.

Patton's story is one of innovation, compassion, and redemption. His contributions to technology and engineering have paved the way for new possibilities in real-time data analysis, while his personal journey underscores the power of change and the importance of using one's past to make a positive impact.

To learn more about Damien’s work to combat youth radicalization, visit his website or check out his op-ed in The Hill.