Key Takeaways:
- CEO Dima Chernobylski emphasizes affordability, ease of use, and real-time AI-driven insights for growers.
- GrowDirector’s fourth-generation automation system offers wireless, modular control for greenhouses of all sizes.
- The platform is already deployed in remote and challenging environments, including Alaska, Canada, and Vietnam.
- GrowDirector’s no-subscription model includes AI features such as virtual agronomists and predictive greenhouse summaries.
- Chernobylski aims to expand in North America and Europe through partnerships with distributors and integrators.
Dima Chernobylski Reflects on GrowDirector’s Origins
GrowDirector CEO and Co-Founder Dima Chernobylski joined Vertical Farming Podcast host Harry Duran for an in-depth conversation on the evolution of greenhouse automation. What began as an initiative during the 2016 cannabis cultivation boom has since developed into a comprehensive platform for Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA).
“Our first product focused on cannabis growers, but we realized the bigger opportunity was in broader agriculture,” said Chernobylski. “That’s when we pivoted, iterated, and focused on a scalable, professional-grade system.”
Scalable, Wireless Automation for Growers
GrowDirector’s fourth-generation system—set to be presented at GreenTech Amsterdam—is designed to be modular and wireless, allowing greenhouses of any size to integrate automation without expensive retrofits or internet dependency.
“This system is future-proof and flexible,” explained Dima Chernobylski. “It supports small 5,000 sq. ft. greenhouses or larger commercial setups, with no need for extensive rewiring or infrastructure changes.”
The system includes:
- A wireless mesh architecture that remains operational offline
- Compatibility with dispersed and legacy equipment
- Remote management and alerting capabilities
- A no-subscription model for access to built-in AI tools
Dima Chernobylski on AI’s Expanding Role
Chernobylski highlighted GrowDirector’s growing integration of AI into its platform. One feature, “AI Support,” acts as a virtual agronomist, providing growers with answers to technical and agronomic questions in real time.
“We analyze temperature, humidity, irrigation timing, and more. AI then generates a weekly greenhouse summary with star ratings and actionable insights,” said Chernobylski. “It’s like having a consultant on-call, every day.”
According to Chernobylski, GrowDirector’s AI capabilities continue to evolve rapidly, mirroring developments in general AI platforms. “We’re proactive,” he added. “What seemed like a five-year roadmap is now possible in months.”
Real-World Applications in Harsh Conditions
GrowDirector’s technology has been deployed across various environments—including vertical farms in Alaska and container farms in Canada—where scalability and remote control are critical.
“In Alaska, we helped automate container farms with no internet connection and limited physical access,” said Chernobylski. “This level of resilience and affordability is important for farms in isolated or underserved areas.”
The company is also working on a large orchid greenhouse project in Vietnam and exploring opportunities in the Middle East, where extreme climates make automation essential.
Guidance from Dima Chernobylski to the Indoor Farming Sector
Chernobylski offered direct advice to operators navigating the indoor farming industry: “Be extremely careful with crop selection and site location. Not everything that grows can be sold profitably.”
He believes the next phase of vertical farming viability will hinge on improvements in energy efficiency and robotics. “Once LED systems, HVACs, and labor solutions become more cost-effective, vertical farming will start making sense in more places,” he added.
Leadership Style and Vision for Growth
When asked about his leadership philosophy, Dima Chernobylski described himself as a founder learning through iteration.
“I’m not into micromanagement—I prefer to trust my team,” he said. “But hiring is tough. Sometimes it’s luck, sometimes it’s persistence. I’ve learned that hiring slowly and firing quickly is a principle that often pays off.”
GrowDirector’s current team comprises 20–22 people, with expansion plans focused on North America and Europe. The company is actively seeking new distributor and integrator partnerships to reach more greenhouse operators globally.
Looking Ahead for GrowDirector
As GrowDirector continues to evolve, Chernobylski sees deeper integration with greenhouse builders and a broader presence in the global CEA sector as top priorities.
“We want our technology to be accessible and beneficial for every grower—whether they’re just getting started or scaling operations,” he said. “Our goal is to make their work easier, more predictable, and ultimately more profitable.”
Listen or Watch The Entire Episode With Dima Chernobilsky Below
