Running the Algorithm: SpaceX’s Approach to Exponential Growth with VP of Launch Kiko Dontchev

Curious how SpaceX went from 13 launches in 2019 to pacing for 100 in 2023? As VP of Launch at SpaceX, Kiko Dontchev goes into work every day with the simple goal of making space travel as accessible as air travel, and he is well on his way. In this talk, Kiko will dive into SpaceX’s exponential growth approach, Elon’s problem-solving algorithm, and becoming the most prolific launcher of all time.

This talk was recorded at Summit At Sea in May 2023.

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[danielhermanus]

The drive of the guy for his work and his people is amazing to see, hear and feel!

[toniomartinez]

Outstanding presentation Kiko. Simplify, simplify, simplify, and then challenge the remaining requirements. Amazing how much effort goes into paradigmatic thinking. -Tonio

[estevesgoncalo]

This is one of the few (that I’m aware of) presentations that go all way into first principles, SpaceX beyond belief rate of execution with technology, and what’s about to happen. And without Elon Musk, it’s impossible that it’s only one company here and that we can’t figure out how to compete with SpaceX. Big thank you for setting this up, it’s truly inspirational and a delight to systems engineering and Space.

[StyleViewStudio]

This is phenomenal! I am such a fan of SpaceX, and everyone who contributes to its incredible progress!❤❤❤❤

[setoelkahfi]

It's really amazing to see the things these people have been achieved in the last decade.

[jessicakirsh]

Thanks for all you do for SpaceX, Kiko!

[clevergirl]

I've been eagerly waiting for a video like this, to give us more insght into the operations of what is arguably one of the most important companies in history.
Thanks for all you do at SpaceX, Kiko Dontchev

[samattwood]

Absolutely Love this video. What an asset to Elon. I guess that’s a testament to his genius. Finding quality people that he can trust, to then delegate tasks too..

[Terrin-ozdy]

I am so proud of everyone and everything you've accomplished.

[Astroponicist]

thank you for this historic presentation. As a kid who was born in 1969 & promised a chance to go to space when I grew up only to see the whole industry almost go on moth balls I am so grateful that many amazing young crazy wonderful people like yourself took the reigns & ran with it. just get the 1/2 G senior center space station built before I die.

[itsallgoodaversa]

7:09 in Eric Bergers’ book Liftoff where he was able to travel and be with Elon Musk, they mention that the name “falcon” came from birds of prey, not from Star Wars. That’s why there was also an early engine named the Kestrel.

[JakeSilvester]

Thanks for sharing this video! Great listen/ watch!

[denmaroca]

Good presentation. One mistake though (easily done) at 30:30: Hayley Arceneaux isn't the youngest female to go into orbit. That's still Valentina Tereshkova. She is the youngest American though.

[Michal_Wlodarczyk]

People with passion for what they do are driving technology and humanity into the future.

[jeffreycianciolo]

You had such a amazing professor kiko

[LovingLifeNowNoMatterWhat]

Letsss gooo Kikooo Dooont, i wooont! 🌬🌸🌌🌏

[KryptonianMustard]

Awesome video! I now want to be a SpaceX employee 😂

[charleswest]

Cool. So it's the design for assembly approach applied to business/large scale processes.

[mustang]

What happens when SpaceX runs up against the rising onslaught of the Degrowth political movement?

[ismailnyeyusof]

The algorithm SpaceX, and I’m sure Tesla and other Musk companies use, is really very simple. The only obstacle is also very simple, it’s human ego, yet though the success possible is very real and apparent very few companies seem able to do it. Authoritarian nations are also going to find it difficult to run the algorithm. The key success factor, always, is a visionary, and supremely self confident and brilliant person. Many appear to hate such people but as Musk himself put it during his SNL sketch, someone who can start two wildly innovative companies and make them thrive is not going to be a normal chill dude!