Augustus Doricko is a 25-year-old entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of Rainmaker, a Southern California-based startup specializing in cloud seeding and weather modification technologies. His company employs drone-based systems to artificially induce rainfall and snowfall, aiming to address water scarcity issues in the American West.
Doricko began his academic journey at the University of California, Berkeley, where he studied physics and data science. However, he dropped out one class short of graduation during the pandemic to pursue entrepreneurial ventures. He co-founded Terra Seco Solutions, a company focused on automating water compliance for farmers, which led him to develop a keen interest in water policy and technology.
In 2024, Doricko founded Rainmaker with the mission to create water abundance in the United States. The company utilizes weather-resistant drones equipped with heating elements to disperse silver iodide into clouds, facilitating precipitation. Rainmaker’s approach aims to be more precise and cost-effective compared to traditional methods, such as using aircraft or ground-based generators.
Under Doricko’s leadership, Rainmaker has raised $6.3 million in seed funding and has secured contracts with entities like the Sacramento Municipal Utility District and ski resorts in Colorado. The company is also exploring opportunities in Utah to address water shortages affecting the Great Salt Lake.
Early Life and Education
Birth and Family Background
Born in Stamford, Connecticut, Augustus Doricko was raised in a family that valued education and intellectual curiosity. His father worked in data centers, and his mother was a pattern maker, providing him with a unique perspective on technology and design from an early age. Doricko’s upbringing fostered a strong work ethic and an appreciation for innovation.
Academic Pursuits
Doricko’s academic journey took him to the University of California, Berkeley, where he enrolled to study physics and data science. His interest in understanding the fundamental laws of nature and the application of data-driven solutions to complex problems drove his choice of major. However, during the pandemic, with classes transitioning online, he found the traditional educational path less aligned with his entrepreneurial aspirations. This led him to leave Berkeley just one class short of graduation to pursue his business ventures.
Career and Entrepreneurial Ventures
Founding Terra Seco Solutions
After leaving Berkeley, Doricko moved to Texas, where he became a personal trainer. It was at the gym that he met a water well driller, which sparked his interest in the water crisis affecting the region. Recognizing the challenges faced by farmers in managing water compliance, Doricko co-founded Terra Seco Solutions. The company focused on automating water compliance for farmers using IoT flow meters, streamlining the regulatory process and improving efficiency.
Transition to Weather Modification
While working at Terra Seco, Doricko became increasingly aware of the limitations of current water policies, which often focused on reducing water usage rather than increasing water supply. This realization led him to explore alternative solutions, culminating in the founding of Rainmaker. The company aims to reverse desertification in the American West and terraform arid regions into fertile land by inducing precipitation through cloud seeding.
Rainmaker: Revolutionizing Cloud Seeding
Company Overview
Rainmaker is a next-generation cloud-seeding company that utilizes drone-based technology to induce rainfall and snowfall. Unlike traditional methods that rely on aircraft or ground-based generators, Rainmaker employs weather-resistant drones equipped with heating elements to disperse silver iodide into clouds, facilitating precipitation. This approach allows for more precise and cost-effective weather modification.
Technological Innovations
One of Rainmaker’s key innovations is its use of radar-based weather tracking and numerical modeling to identify optimal cloud formations for seeding. This precision ensures that interventions are both effective and efficient. Additionally, the company’s drones are designed to withstand the harsh conditions within clouds, enabling them to operate in environments where traditional aircraft would be grounded.
Achievements and Recognition
Under Doricko’s leadership, Rainmaker has achieved significant milestones. The company has secured contracts with entities like the Sacramento Municipal Utility District and ski resorts in Colorado. In 2025, Rainmaker raised $25 million in a Series A funding round, attracting investors such as Garry Tan. The company has also expanded its operations to multiple states, including Oregon, Utah, and Colorado, and has plans to extend its services internationally.
Personal Life and Beliefs
Faith and Values
Doricko is a practicing Christian, and his faith plays a central role in his life and work. He believes that his efforts in weather modification are part of a divine calling to steward the Earth and address the challenges posed by climate change. This perspective informs the ethical framework within which Rainmaker operates, emphasizing environmental responsibility and the well-being of communities.
Lifestyle and Community Engagement
Residing in El Segundo, California, Doricko is part of a vibrant community of tech entrepreneurs who share a commitment to innovation and social impact. He is known for hosting weekly beach bonfires, bringing together like-minded individuals to discuss ideas and foster collaboration. His leadership style is characterized by a blend of technical expertise, strategic vision, and a strong sense of community.
Net Worth and Recognition
As of 2025, Augustus Doricko’s estimated net worth is not publicly disclosed. However, the successful funding rounds and growing contracts secured by Rainmaker suggest a promising financial trajectory. His work has attracted attention from various media outlets, and he has been featured in podcasts and interviews discussing the future of weather modification and its potential to address global water challenges.
Conclusion
Augustus Doricko’s journey from a physics student at UC Berkeley to the CEO of Rainmaker exemplifies the impact of innovative thinking and entrepreneurial spirit in addressing global challenges. Through his work in weather modification, Doricko is not only advancing technology but also contributing to solutions for water scarcity and environmental sustainability. His story serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and underscores the potential of science and technology to effect positive change in the world.
FAQs
What is cloud seeding?
Cloud seeding is a weather modification technique that involves introducing substances into clouds to encourage precipitation.
How does Rainmaker’s technology differ from traditional methods?
Rainmaker uses drones equipped with heating elements to disperse silver iodide into clouds, offering more precision and efficiency compared to traditional aircraft or ground-based generators.
What are the primary applications of Rainmaker’s services?
Rainmaker’s services are utilized to increase water availability for agriculture, replenish water reservoirs, and mitigate drought conditions.
Has Rainmaker faced any controversies?
Yes, following severe floods in Texas, some conspiracy theories circulated, falsely attributing the events to Rainmaker’s cloud-seeding activities.
What are Doricko’s future plans for Rainmaker?
Doricko plans to expand Rainmaker’s operations internationally and continue developing innovative solutions to address global water scarcity.
What inspired Doricko to pursue weather modification?
Doricko’s interest in weather modification was sparked by his experiences in Texas, where he learned about the challenges of water scarcity and the limitations of current water policies.
How does Doricko’s faith influence his work?
Doricko views his work in weather modification as a calling to steward the Earth and address climate challenges, guided by his Christian faith.
Where is Rainmaker headquartered?
Rainmaker is headquartered in El Segundo, California, a suburb known for its aerospace industry and tech startups.
What recognition has Rainmaker received?
Rainmaker has secured significant funding and contracts, including a $25 million Series A round and partnerships with municipal utilities and ski resorts.
