Akshay Pai Raikar is a robotics software engineer focused on motion planning and vehicle behavior for Level‑4 autonomous trucks. Based in Austin, he serves as a Software Engineer on Torc Robotics’ Vehicle Intent team, where he designs, implements, and validates highway‑driving policies, and is the team’s leading contributor to intellectual‑property filings. Prior to Torc, Akshay analyzed perception logs and refined state‑estimation algorithms at Arriver Inc., and led system integration of a prototype fuel‑cell electric truck at Kenworth Trucks North America. His technical toolkit spans C++, Python, ROS 2, CMake/Bazel, GTest, Docker, OpenCV, and PyTorch, complemented by hands‑on experience with ISO 26262 safety processes and CAN‑based diagnostic systems. Akshay holds an M.S. in Mechanical Engineering (Robotics & Control) from the University of Washington and a B.E. in Mechanical Engineering from BITS Pilani, Goa Campus. Outside work, likes reading non-fiction, enjoys challenging hiking trails and playing racquet sports.