Vitale Diamandis
University of Michigan, USA
Abstract Title:Navigating the Future of Aerospace and Harnessing Gen Z's Vision
Biography:
Creative and driven aerospace engineer at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, completing degree in 3 years total. Experienced at major aeronautical companies and organizations, with technical insight in multiple industry-leading tools and methodologies. Demonstrated hands-on experience in rocket building and team collaboration. Adaptable with an effective balance of technical and business skills. Frequent presenter at numerous international conferences, actively discussing the latest engineering innovations and strategies for navigating technical challenges. Currently a design engineer intern at L3Harris.
Research Interest:
The aerospace industry is undergoing profound changes, driven by the rise of private sector dominance, evolving government priorities, and shifting generational perspectives. This presentation integrates insights from a custom Gen Z-focused research study with contemporary developments in the aerospace sector from NASA and L3Harris to examine the future of space exploration and innovation. In parallel with generational differences, significant contemporary challenges are reshaping the aerospace landscape, presenting unique opportunities and critical considerations for innovation and sustainability: ? Private Sector Dominates the Frontier of Aerospace Development ? Understand the transformative impact of private enterprises on aerospace innovation. Recognize how Gen Z’s emphasis on risk-taking and sustainability aligns with private sector ambitions, presenting opportunities for policy and investment strategies that leverage this synergy. ? Elon Musk and the DOGE Effect in the US: Revolutionizing Aerospace Regulations Worldwide ? Understand how figures like Elon Musk and the "DOGE effect" (Department of Government Efficiency) represent a pivotal shift in regulatory landscapes, catalyzing worldwide deregulation and innovation. This trend underscores the need for leaders to anticipate and shape global regulatory changes to harness their potential. ? Balancing Deregulation with Oversight: Increasing Innovation ? Navigate the critical challenge of balancing deregulation with effective oversight. Identify strategies to ensure safety, sustainability, and ethical progress while fostering the rapid innovation demanded by both industry leaders and an innovation-driven Gen Z. ? Aerospace in the Public Eye: Reactions to Rapid Progress in Innovation and Exploration ? Understand how the priorities of a risk-oriented, sustainability-focused generation can shape future policies, investments, and innovations in the aerospace industry. Gen Z’s enthusiasm for accessible space exploration and sustainability can guide public-private partnerships and media strategies that resonate with generational values. This presentation provides a unique synthesis of technological, societal, and policy dimensions of aerospace, delivering a comprehensive perspective on how the industry can sustainably innovate and thrive in a rapidly evolving world. By examining the survey results and situating them in the context of contemporary challenges and opportunities, this presentation also offers actionable insights into harnessing Gen Z’s vision that aligns public and private interests while addressing generational priorities and global challenges.