Bernard Cripps
AI student · Vanlife producteer · Tech enthusiast
I’m Bernard – a 20‑year‑old studying AI in Business while building VanCore, an open‑source platform that brings smart home automation to vans and off‑grid spaces. I’m combining my academic studies in artificial intelligence with hands‑on hardware development to create solutions that make off‑grid living smarter and more accessible.
Explore my journey, projects, and the stories behind solving real problems.
My degree at IU University covers everything from natural language processing and deep learning to business intelligence and process automation – knowledge I’m applying directly to real‑world product development. Through VanCore, I’m developing hardware modules, software integrations, and intuitive user interfaces that solve genuine challenges faced by vanlifers and off‑grid enthusiasts.
My Three Pillars
The core values that guide my approach to education, business and life.
Curiosity
I’m always drawn to learning something new – there’s usually an interesting perspective or insight waiting just beyond what I already know.
Leverage
I look for ways to multiply my impact – using the right tools, systems, and collaborations to achieve far more than I could working alone.
Efficiency
Once something’s working, I focus on eliminating waste and using resources as effectively as possible to maximise value.
My AI in Business Degree Journey
Tracking my progress through coursework and projects along my academic path.
Business 101
Businesses and their environment, types of organisations, management and structure of business, production of goods and services, marketing of products and services, management of labour, and accounting.
Completed • Jan 2025
Artificial Intelligence
The history of AI, modern AI systems, reinforcement learning (Markov chains, value functions, Q‑learning), NLP basics, and computer vision fundamentals.
In progress • Feb 2025
Deep Learning in Business Contexts
The mathematical foundations behind neural networks and how different architectures solve specific business problems.
Upcoming • May 2025
Build Stories
Real challenges and wins from developing products that blend electronics,
design and systems thinking.
Smart Fuse Box
Designing a modular smart fuse box with remote monitoring and overload protection.
Water System Control
Developing an automated water management system for off‑grid living.
Security & CCTV
Integrating cameras and sensors into a unified off‑grid security platform.
Professional Experience & Education
A snapshot of my professional journey and educational background.
May 2024 – Feb 2025
Van Conversion Craftsman
Vanable
Contributed to high‑end custom van conversions across the full build process – from structural work and electrical systems to joinery and finishing.
Part of the team providing high-end, fully custom van fitouts in Sydney and across Australia. Experience with roof hardware installs, subfloor, flooring, walls, interior and exterior windows, electric systems, and cabinet making. Insight into business practice,s including marketing, sales, customer relationship management, and enjoying access to learn from the various professionals in their field at the company, including expert cabinet makers, designers, and business owners.: HomeSep 2023 – Dec 2024
Rugby Coach
Merchant Taylors’ School
Managing an U14 rugby team at Merchant Taylors’ – planning, organising and executing sessions bi‑weekly and refereeing fixtures on Saturday mornings.
Strong focus on skill development and enjoyment of the game while following Ed Conway’s MTS Rugby vision.: Home
Jul 2023 – Feb 2024
Pro Shop Attendant
Pinner Hill Golf Club
Overseeing the running of the pro shop at Pinner Hill Golf Club as part of a small team, ensuring members and visitors enjoy their time at the club.
Often having sole responsibility over the pro shop during the day. Duties included sales, product placement, marketing, POS systems, cashing up, and tee bookings.: Home
Nov 2023 – Feb 2024
Waiter
Lomito Steakhouse
Waiter at LOMITO, a high‑end Argentinian steakhouse in North West London.
Typically covering a section of four or five tables. Strong emphasis on teamwork, maintaining good customer service and upholding high standards across the restaurant.: Home
Jul 2023 – Feb 2024
Front of House
The Etiquette Group
Front of house roles including waiting and bartending at a variety of different events in the South of England.
Venues included Twickenham Stadium, Henley Regatta, Lord’s, the Oval, Wembley Stadium and Newmarket racecourse. Adapted quickly to different processes and teams while maintaining professionalism and providing quality customer service.: Home
Sep 2018 – Jul 2023
Student (GCSE & A level)
The Leys School
Attended The Leys School in Cambridge for 5 years and achieved AAB in Mathematics, Geography and Economics plus 10 GCSEs.
Participated in the Army CCF, volunteered as a rugby coach, served as deputy head of West House and represented the 1st XV Rugby team and the 1st rowing quad.: Home
What I’m Reading
Books that have shaped my thinking and approach to business, technology, and life.
The Startup of You
My favourite book to date; I read this whilst travelling the East Coast of Australia in early 2025 on various buses, trains and boats. Key takeaways revolve around treating your career as a startup – operate in a “permanent beta” of continuous learning, build unique career capital by aligning your assets, aspirations and market realities, employ ABZ planning, leverage network intelligence, take intelligent small bets to accelerate growth, and cultivate a distinctive professional brand to stand out.
10/10
Thinking, Fast and Slow
The mind operates in two distinct modes: System 1 engages automatically, producing quick impressions and intuitive judgements with minimal effort, whereas System 2 uses deliberate, analytical thought to process complex information and override System 1’s impulses. Understanding these modes helps you recognise when you’re on autopilot versus when you need to slow down and apply conscious reasoning. A simple concept, but extremely useful and easily actioned in practice.
9/10
Zero to One
An interesting read on the value of building entirely new ideas, rather than scaling existing ones. It speaks to the value in “American Dynamism”. Main points include identifying the contrarian “secret” that few recognise, starting by dominating a small niche before scaling, building proprietary technology with network effects, integrating robust sales and distribution from day one, assembling a mission‑driven team united by a clear mission, and planning boldly with definite optimism for long‑term monopoly growth.
8/10
How It All Connects
My AI in Business degree provides the theoretical foundation for understanding how technology can solve real‑world problems, while my VanCore project lets me apply those concepts immediately – from building hardware prototypes to developing AI‑powered user interfaces. The practical skills I developed during my year in Sydney’s van conversion industry now inform both my product development and my hands‑on approach to learning, creating a cycle where academic knowledge, business experience and technical craftsmanship reinforce each other.
Bernard Cripps 