Google Layoff Leads to Startup Dream for Former Employee

Rob Waters was laid off from Google in November 2025, but what followed was an unexpected offer to return to the company. Instead of taking a six-figure salary and unvested stock, Waters chose to pursue his long-held dream of starting his own AI startup.

Waters had spent nearly six years at Google, working as a data analytics and AI sales specialist for Google Public Sector. However, he grew frustrated with the company's bureaucracy and felt undervalued after being laid off without notice. Despite being offered a return to Google, Waters decided to take a risk and start his own business.

He moved from Virginia to San Francisco in July 2026, leaving behind nearly all of his belongings. The move was motivated by his desire to be closer to the startup ecosystem and access venture capital. Waters' wife and son joined him in San Francisco two months later, and the family put their Virginia house up for sale.

Waters is now focusing on building Kanawai AI, an AI system of record that provides visibility, governance, and security for commercial and enterprise customers. Despite facing financial challenges as a startup founder, Waters remains committed to his vision and believes that his experience working with AI and data will be valuable in this new venture.