Calvitia was formed to provide turn-key technology solutions based on the experience of its founder, Patrick Keys. Patrick has been interested in technology since a very early age, famously taking apart his parents’ camera when he was three years old. At school, Patrick took a keen interest in technical subjects, but also computing and theatrical lighting and sound.
Patrick’s career path was heavily influenced by the BBC Micro computer, which allowed him to properly understand a computer at a very low level. He was often to be found at home designing circuits and writing his own software in order to fully understand the platform. As technology has evolved, he has continued to show a keen interest in the lower-level aspects of computing and networking, allowing him to effectively design and integrate all aspects of computer-based systems.
On completing his A-levels in 1996, Patrick enrolled at the University of Bristol to study Electrical and Electronic Engineering. He was sponsored through university by Racal Radio (now part of Thales), where he worked during university holidays to gain valuable industry experience. In his spare time, he continued his keen interest in theatrical technology, providing lighting, sound and stage sets for numerous shows during his time at university, and while at home during holidays.
Patrick graduated from university in 2000, and joined Pharos Communications (now part of Evertz), who specialised in software and hardware for broadcast automation and media management for global clients such as BBC, CNN, Channel 4, HBO and Seven Network. When Patrick joined Pharos, the company was relatively small, and as a result everyone was responsible for software development, installation, debugging and client management. Patrick was also responsible for developing bespoke hardware.
As the company grew, Patrick became part of the senior management team, and was responsible for setting up several new departments: projects, support, training and finally an overseas office in Singapore. He moved to Singapore in 2008.
Family circumstances necessitated a move back to the UK in 2010. After a short break, Patrick joined Fineline, a company that he had worked with while at university. Patrick initially joined to assist with business restructuring, but quickly found himself delivering special projects for a variety of clients in the entertainment industry. These projects involved bespoke motion control, automation and LED control for events such as The Voice of Ireland, the London Olympics closing ceremony, Sochi Winter Olympics closing ceremony, Baku European Games opening ceremony, UAE National Day ceremonies and world tours for The Pet Shop Boys.
While at Fineline, Patrick was also involved in contract product development work for clients such as CP Electronics (now part of Legrand), Schneider Electric and Architen Landrell. This work involved turn-key development of products to integrate with the KNX building automation standard, and the Siemens (previously Moore) APACS industrial control system.
In 2019, Patrick joined NEWSUBSTANCE to continue his special projects work in the entertainment industry. Patrick was responsible for the software, electronics and systems integration elements of projects around the world, often designing from the ground up. Some of his projects included the Dubai Expo opening ceremony, Qatar World Cup countdown clock, Disney’s Frozen on Broadway and in the West End and Stranger Things: The First Shadow. He was also heavily involved in communication system development work for SkyMagic‘s drone platform.
In 2024, Patrick left NEWSUBSTANCE to set up Calvitia, which aims to bring all of his experience and expertise to a single organisation.