inControl ep24 - Brian Douglas: Boeing, Control Videos, Resourcium, Map of Control Theory, Cartoons, Mathworks
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Jun 14, 2024 Brian Douglas, Principal Technical Marketing Manager at MathWorks and the brain behind Engineering Media, dives into his journey from Boeing to space mining. He discusses the birth of his popular control theory videos, focusing on innovative, engaging teaching methods. The conversation highlights his visual map of control theory, designed to clarify complex concepts, and the importance of creativity in education. Douglas also shares insights on the future of control education, emphasizing interaction and real-world applications.
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How Brian Entered Controls
- Brian Douglas stumbled into control engineering by expressing a preference for differential equations during his Boeing internship interview.
- He gained hands-on experience with spacecraft control systems which sparked his lifelong interest in control theory.
Brian's Aerospace Career Path
- Brian spent a decade at Boeing working on spacecraft guidance, navigation, and control including CubeSat programs.
- He later led the GNC and systems engineering teams at Planetary Resources, aiming to mine asteroids.
From Notes to YouTube Success
- Brian began making control theory videos as a personal note-taking exercise inspired by Sal Khan's teaching style.
- Unexpected positive feedback encouraged him to continue, growing the videos into a popular resource.