Depending on the day, freshman Kai Vincent may be looking up to the skies for inspiration or plunging headfirst into ocean waters. A PADI-certified scuba diver and aviation enthusiast, Vincent spent his summer lending a hand at his high school’s Fab Lab in order to create PPE for local hospitals dealing with COVID-19. Read on...

What does being at the Academy mean to you?

The Academy represents all of the disciplines that I am passionate about, so being here means that I get to continue learning and working on what I love with an amazing group of like-minded people.

What is something about the way the world works that you'd like to disrupt?

I would like to disrupt the siloed (and often inefficient) operations commonly found in the commercial aviation industry.

This year, I hope to improve my design skills, get to know my cohort better, and spend some time exploring the LA area.

Who is the most impressive entrepreneur alive today? Why?

It may be cliche, but Elon Musk is very impressive. He started many of his businesses with little to no prior experience. With SpaceX, for example, he began by teaching himself aerospace engineering and assembling a team from scratch. Ultimately, SpaceX has disrupted an industry previously fraught with delays by sluggish multi-corporation alliances with little innovation. His developments cross various industries and have a global impact.

What are some things you want to know about your future senior self?

I'd love to know what professional opportunities I end up getting involved with through USC and the Academy; I am really looking forward to working in Industry and Impact Labs, as well as some longer-term internships.

Describe one thing most people don’t know about you?

Most people don't know that I am a PADI-certified scuba diver. I haven't been on a dive in a while, but I hope to take advantage of the incredible diving spots here on the West Coast.

What is one thing your parents taught you that you’d like to share?

One thing my parents taught me is to do what makes me happy.

What is a recent project you’ve worked on that you’re really proud of?

Over the spring and summer, I was proud to help out in my high school's Fab Lab fabricating PPE—including face shields, masks, and sneeze guards—for local hospitals and organizations lacking sufficient equipment. The items we produced were distributed through a non-profit established at the start of the pandemic by one of my engineering classmates.

What are the essential things you always keep in your backpack?
I always have my laptop, an external hard drive, a water bottle, and my go-to Pilot G2 pens in my backpack.

Favorite app, service or website?
FlightAware - It is such a useful flight tracking app that is great for identifying overhead planes and monitoring travel itineraries.

If you could be best friends with one fictional character who would it be?
I think James Bond would be quite an interesting and handy friend to have!

Fresh Encounters: Kai Vincent

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