Transitioning into tech entrepreneur: Callum Coombes’s story

CASE STUDY

After joining the Army at 17 and qualifying as an avionics technician, he travelled the world, from California to Afghanistan, seizing every opportunity the military offered—including earning a scuba diving license.

Fuelled by a strong desire for personal growth, he pursued a computer science degree with the Army's support, funded through ELCAS PFHE. Graduating at the top of his class in 2016, he initially worked as a software engineer for defence and pharmaceutical companies. However, his true passion lay in entrepreneurship.

In 2017, he founded Safepoint, a company dedicated to protecting at-risk workers in hazardous roles. Safepoint quickly gained traction, providing safety solutions for major organizations like the Labour Party, Specsavers, and the NHS.

Not stopping there, he launched Callie in 2023—a free consumer safety system designed to bring workplace-level protection to individuals across the UK and Ireland. Callie’s rapid adoption reflects its value, now used by thousands.

His efforts have not gone unnoticed. In 2024, Safepoint and Callie were recognized in Geovation’s "Protection of Life" award and named Tech Nation’s Rising Stars Alumni. He was also honoured with the British Ex-Forces in Business "Entrepreneur of the Year" award.

From the Army to the cutting edge of tech, his journey is a testament to resilience, innovation, and a relentless drive to make the world safer.