Elon Musk is a South African-born entrepreneur who has revolutionized the way our world works. He’s the founder of three multi-billion dollar companies, including Tesla – the world’s most valuable carmaker – SpaceX, and Neuralink. Musk also wants to make advancements in renewable energy, space exploration, and artificial intelligence. In short, he’s an innovator, inventor, and leader, and for anyone considering following in his footsteps, the question becomes: What should one study to become like Elon Musk?
Even though Musk has no formal technical training (or college degree, for that matter), he is well-known for his aptitude in the sciences. He taught himself computer programming, and at the age of 12, he sold his first computer game. Business Insider noted Musk was “not particularly studious as a child but was obsessed with books.” A reading list attributed to Musk included physics, philosophy, technology, and biographies of great innovators such as Nikola Tesla and Benjamin Franklin.
A closer examination of Musk’s companies provides a clue to what path aspiring tech entrepreneurs should take. At the heart of these ventures are physics, mathematics, and engineering. To build the groundbreaking devices that Musk dreams up, one needs an in-depth understanding of how things work, the ability to correctly apply basic principles, and the vision to envision and plan for the future. For example, Musk’s team at Tesla need to have a deep understanding of mechanical engineering, electronics engineering, and electrical engineering. They also need to be able to utilize physics and mathematics, as well as understand the manufacturing process.
With Musk’s SpaceX, the skill set moves from mechanical and electrical engineering to aerospace engineering. Knowledge of materials like composite materials and metals is necessary, as is a solid understanding of propulsion and control. At the same time, spacecraft designers need to understand propulsion systems, actuation, and electromechanical systems, as well as orbital mechanics.
For those interested in following Musk’s lead and working in the tech world, a college degree in one of these disciplines is necessary, though Musk himself believes more in “passion and creativity than academic qualifications.” An understanding of technology and the courage to not be afraid to think outside the box are two traits that could serve entrepreneurs just as well. Musk isn’t the only tech mogul that believes in the power of passion. Apple CEO Tim Cook was asked what people should study to make a difference in the world, and he said: “I don’t think there’s any substitute for passion and energy and willingness to work hard and stick with it until you’re done with it.”
Analytics
Analytics carries immense importance for Musk’s ventures, and data science is at the heart of the decisions his companies make. As AI sees rapid development, understanding data science is crucial for anyone wishing to have a career in tech. Data science applies mathematical and computational principles to solve complex problems and make predictions from massive amounts of data. In a world where data is becoming increasingly valuable, data science will become an essential skill. Musk’s companies rely heavily on data analysis and analytics to make decisions. With space exploration, data analysis plays a huge role in mission planning. With Tesla, data analysis helps to optimize the design and performance of its vehicles.
AI and Robotics
AI and robotics have been an area of deep interest for Musk since he founded OpenAI, a nonprofit dedicated to researching and promoting “responsible” AI development. Musk has called AI “more dangerous than nukes,” and given the immense technological advances that have been made in the last decade, recent college graduates need to understand AI and robotics if they wish to keep up in the tech industry. Deep learning, natural language processing, and computer vision are a few areas that are essential for those striving to be like Musk.
Economics and Finance
Musk not only has business and technological acumen, but a knack for finance and economics as well. One of Musk’s most impressive accomplishments was buying SolarCity, a provider of renewable energy solutions, in 2016. SolarCity had been experiencing financial difficulties and was on the brink of bankruptcy until Musk stepped in. His quick thinking and negotiation skills proved to be vital to its success. A deep understanding of the current economic landscape is crucial in understanding economic trends, investments, and financial risk management.
Computer Science
Computer science forms the basis for Musk’s current and future endeavors. To understand the technologies he works with, one needs to have a thorough understanding of computer science fundamentals, including algorithms, software engineering, and programming. With Musk’s Neuralink, for example, a firm grasp of computer science is necessary for understanding the interface between the brain, body, and machine. Knowledge of robotics, artificial intelligence, and even machine learning wouldn’t go amiss either.
Leadership
Leadership is, perhaps, the most important skill Musk has. A strong leader, Musk has an uncanny ability to inspire those around him and motivate them to work towards a common goal. He is a master of communication, able to effectively convey his ideas and vision to his team, no matter how grandiose. Musk also has an acute understanding of how to manage a company, able to identify areas of potential growth and effectively delegate resources accordingly. Musk’s leadership abilities have been crucial in bringing his ideas to life, and for anyone wishing to become like Elon Musk, developing their own leadership skill set is key.
Marketing and Distribution
Though Musk’s talent in the tech realm is undeniable, he also excels in the marketing and distribution of his products. Tesla, for example, is now the world’s most valuable carmaker, in no small part due to Musk’s efforts to market and advertise the company. Under Musk, Tesla has built an impressive online presence and has successfully reached technologies early adopters. Musk’s company SpaceX has also seen success in this domain, as he has aggressively marketed his flight offerings and astronauts trips using social media.
Innovation and Creativity
At the end of the day, innovation and creativity are perhaps the two most important traits one needs to acquire if they want to become like Musk. With Tesla, SpaceX, and Neuralink, Musk has pushed the boundaries of imagination and brought them to life. To be like him, one needs to bring something truly new to the table. Musk’s ability to think outside the box and find creative solutions is what truly sets him apart from other tech entrepreneurs. His knack for spotting opportunities and his passion to make the world a better place are two qualities that any entrepreneur or innovator can strive for.
