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Ausimo

Inventing products with maximum functionality packed in minimal forms.

Austin is an engineering management student at University of the Pacific. His program blends business and engineering, with classes on supply chains, accounting, mechanics, math, and more. He aims to open his own studio in the future, but is already launching his own computer accessories and home furnishings through crowdfunding.

Stockton, California

Get to know Ausimo

What was the inspiration for the light you designed on Gantri?

My first year in college, I struggled to get the right amount of light in my dorm room. My roommate slept a lot, and my big architect’s lamp gave off too much light when I studied. So I started thinking of lamp designs that would cast the light down rather than up, with just a little bit of ambient light at the top. Then I saw a post about Gantri on Reddit, and I dropped everything I was doing to start designing it. I couldn’t stop until it was done, because I knew it was a really good opportunity. I did it quickly, and it was really fun.

What are some things that motivate you?

My younger brother unexpectedly passed away in 2006. He and I had always come up with designs together — like a better cast for my mother after she broke her ankle. We would sketch ideas and make business plans. After he died, I made a promise to myself that I would make that dream blossom. It drives me to design things that fix real problems, and to share those solutions with the world.

What’s an example of a project you’ve worked on that can have that kind of positive impact?

In Stockton, where I grew up, homelessness is a huge problem. So in high school, my friend and I designed a self-contained shelter system for homeless people that could also be used for disaster relief. We called it the HUT — Habitable Urban Tent. It has solid walls, heating, insulation, a bed, windows, and an LED light. You don’t need special tools or separate parts to put it together. Every panel is universal, so if it’s damaged, another can take its place.

Are you still working on the HUT, now that you’re in college?

Yes, we finished a full-size prototype in 2016. We’re working on getting patents and becoming an LLC. But we also realize that if we’re going to have an impact on homelessness, we can’t just give people a HUT. So we developed a complimentary program that will help homeless people get a job and participate in society.

What are your plans for the future?

My ultimate goal is to have my own studio where I can invent and explore design. But I’m also interested in having an impact on society. I’m currently reading a lot about education, and I’d love to help schools unlock students’ potential. Students shouldn’t focus on getting the right answer; they should be encouraged to focus on asking the right questions.