Peacock ’12 Launches FastFig

Winner of three national awards for research, Brian Peacock ’12 saw a need for an improved mathematical tool optimized for scientific exploration. So, he created one.

FastFig, a cloud-based tool for completion of math-based problems, was launched in 2012 through the company Peacock founded called Fig Labs Inc., which is being phased out in favor of FastFig, a registered trade name.

“I was inspired to create FastFig from my combined research experiences at Lafayette, abroad in New Zealand, and at the EPA through the Greater Research Opportunity fellowship,” says Peacock, CTO of the company based in Austin, Texas. “Users can quickly type and solve math problems. It is perfect for students in math, engineering, and science classes as well as practicing engineers.”

Peacock, a civil engineering graduate, says two experiences prepared him for his success—a course on entrepreneurship taught by Wayne Barz, adjunct professor, and managing large projects as president of Society of Environmental Engineers and Scientists (SEES).

Brian Peacock ’12 (right) with Tom DeFazio, coordinator of chemical and environmental labs at Lafayette, and Donovan Hayes ’12 at the public launch of FastFig.

“I constantly use the communication skills that I learned in civil engineering,” he says. “Although grueling at the time, the professional writing skill that I learned has been essential to launching a company. Presentation skills and the ability to respond to unexpected questions have been invaluable.”

Peacock, a 2011 Udall Scholarship recipient, conducted research and presented results on wastewater management, constructed wetlands, and riparian buffer restoration. He worked with Art Kney, associate professor of civil and environmental engineering, and Laurie Caslake, associate professor of biology.

“Lafayette’s research facilities are outstanding, and the small size enabled me to access all of the facilities with unprecedented ease,” says Peacock.