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Kai Amey is the assistant director of the Integrated Teaching and Learning Program (ITLP), where he leads the engineering education operations team. Kai has held multiple engineering positions with the ITLP and has enjoyed working with this program to support hands-on engineering education. As an alumnus of the University of Colorado, Kai earned his BS in Aerospace Engineering Sciences from the Boulder campus and his MBA in Business Strategy from the Denver campus.

How are you getting involved within the CEAS community?

For the past two years, I have been serving on the Engineering Staff Council and have really enjoyed working with a group of people all passionate about improving the lives of our incredible staff. I have also been fortunate to participate in the University Perspective (UP) Program which has been transformational for me and provided the last bit of motivation I needed to apply for a doctorate program.  

What is an ordinary moment in your life that brings you joy?

My favorite ordinary moments are the walks my wife and I take every evening. Being outside and catching up on the day without phones or computers is a great way to step away and stay grounded.

What is a motto or quote that you hold dear and why?

My grandfather passed away just over a year ago. He was always the most positive and selfless person no matter how dire the circumstance. He left a small plaque with The Optimist Creed which I read every morning. My favorite line is “Be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own.”

What has been your favorite work or personal project so far?

I have really enjoyed contributing to the growth of hands-on engineering in our college. My go to example is in additive manufacturing. When I started working for the ITL Program, 3D Printers were something so new and unobtainable for the majority of our student population. Now, some students have them in their dorms or apartments. It is so fun to be a part of every stage of technology adoption.

Where is the best place you’ve traveled to and why?

Such a tough question! My wife and I have been to almost 20 countries in the past handful of years, and I have loved every single adventure. Some of the best experiences came a bit off the beaten path. I really enjoyed island hopping in the Azores and road tripping in the Balkans. The photo I shared was taken in Bosnia and Herzegovina!

Who would you most like to meet and why?

I would have to go with Elon Musk. I think he is one of the most interesting and revolutionary leaders of our time. While I don’t agree with all of his methods, I do think he would be one of the most interesting people to meet.

What is the best advice you have ever been given?

My first boss here at CU always used to say, “If you see a snake, just kill it — don’t appoint a committee on snakes”.