Carlos Viola – Entrepreneur, Leader, Published Author and Family Man
About Carlos Viola
Background
Innovative leader in GIS, remote sensing, and business strategy. Established key partnerships with top geospatial technology firms and led major projects for government and private sectors in Argentina. Experienced in international business development, academic research, and training. Strong Leadership & Problem-Solving. Published author
About Carlos Viola
Background
Background
Background
Carlos Viola was born on August 23, 1954, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, into a family with strong military and academic traditions. His father, Alberto Benito Viola, was a distinguished military engineer, and his mother, Sonia María Marta Binaghi, came from a pioneering family in Las Toscas, Santa Fe.
From an early age, Carlos was exposed to discipline, leadership, and a strong work ethic, values that shaped his personal and professional journey. In 1961, his family moved to the United States, where he attended Cragmont School in Berkeley, California. This experience deeply influenced his admiration for American culture and technology, further fueling his passion for innovation and knowledge.
After returning to Argentina in 1963, Carlos completed his education at Belgrano Day School, where he developed a strong command of the English language. In 1972, he entered the Colegio Militar de la Nación, choosing the Cavalrybranch, following his passion for discipline and strategy. However, his career path ultimately shifted toward science and technology.
Carlos pursued Agricultural Engineering at the University of Buenos Aires (UBA), where he excelled in remote sensing and geospatial sciences. His thesis on photointerpretation and satellite image analysis earned top honors (10/10), solidifying his expertise in geospatial technologies. His education also included advanced training at Stanford University and UC Berkeley, where he deepened his knowledge in GIS, remote sensing, and geospatial analysis.
In 1973, Carlos co-founded Aeroterra S.A., a pioneering company in Argentina specializing in GIS, satellite imagery, and remote sensing. Under his leadership, the company established partnerships with Esri, Erdas, Radarsat, and Space Imaging, playing a critical role in modernizing the use of geospatial technology in Argentina. He also co-founded the Centro de Investigaciones Aplicadas en Percepción Remota (CIAPER) at the University of Buenos Aires, reinforcing his commitment to research and education.
Beyond his technical and business accomplishments, Carlos is also a published author. In 2013, he released his book “Black Lion” in English and “León Negro” in Spanish, showcasing his storytelling and literary skills.
Carlos holds citizenship from Argentina, the United States, and Italy, reflecting his strong international ties and global perspective.
Fluent in Spanish, English, and French, Carlos Viola’s career is marked by vision, innovation, and leadership, combining technical expertise with a deep sense of honor, courage, and purpose. His legacy includes advancing geospatial technology in Argentina, mentoring new generations of professionals, and contributing to academic and scientific progress.
Skills
Background
Background
• Geospatial Technologies: Expertise in GIS, Remote Sensing, and Satellite Imagery
• Data Analysis & Interpretation: Skilled in the analysis and application of geospatial data for environmental, agricultural, and governmental projects
• Business Strategy & Project Management: Strong background in strategic planning, project execution, and managing complex initiatives
• International Business Development: Proven ability to establish and nurture global partnerships, with a focus on geospatial technology and environmental solutions
• Academic Research & Education: Experienced in research, training, and promoting the advancement of geospatial technologies in academia and industry
• Leadership & Team Management: Demonstrated ability to lead teams, mentor professionals, and foster a collaborative working environment
• Problem-Solving & Innovation: Focused on technological innovation and applying creative solutions to complex challenges in the geospatial field
• Public Speaking & Communication: Experienced in presenting technical topics to both expert and non-expert audiences
Education
Who is Carlos?
Who is Carlos?
Strong foundation in English, sciences, and discipline. Military training with a focus on Cavalry. Agricultural Engineering
• Thesis: “The Use of Photointerpretation and Satellite Image Analysis in Early Detection of Plant Diseases”. Stanford University & University of California, Berkeley
• Advanced studies and training in Remote Sensing, GIS, and Geospatial Technologies.
• Specialized in geospatial data analysis and business applications through academic and industry collaborations.
Who is Carlos?
Who is Carlos?
Who is Carlos?
Born in a military hospital, raised among maps, journeys, and discipline, Carlos is a structured soul with the heart of a novelist. A perfect blend of honor code, prodigious memory, and boundless family love, he’s been a cavalry cadet, a pioneer in remote sensing, an entrepreneur with international vision, and—most recently—the chief storyteller of a family saga worthy of a Hollywood film (soundtrack included).
He’s built companies, pitched tents in storms, negotiated in five languages, and traveled the world with a carry-on in one hand and a cigar in the other.
His legacy: clear values, unforgettable stories, happy grandchildren, and books yet to be written.
📚 He writes with humor, memory, and emotion.
🎥 He edits videos as if Spielberg were his cousin.
📍 He lives between Buenos Aires, Miami… and his inner world.
He’s Chuck to some, Tato to others.
But to all… a role model, a rock, and an unforgettable character.