Olivier de Weck is a leading systems engineering expert, which he describes as “the art and science of building, implementing, and operating complex systems.” Born in Switzerland, he holds degrees in industrial engineering from ETH Zurich (1993) and aerospace systems engineering from MIT (2001), where is now Professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics and Engineering Systems.

In this episode of the We Are ETH Podcast, he compares ETH Zurich and MIT, highlighting their similarities and global impact. He explains the concept of “ilities” (as in reliability, flexibility, etc.) in systems engineering and its importance in designing and maintaining complex systems. He shares his fascination with space, and explains the potential for Mars settlement.

This is his story.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction and ETH-MIT comparison

(01:10) Founding of ETH and MIT

(02:07) Definition of systems engineering

(03:00) Origins and growth of systems engineering

(03:57) Interdisciplinary research and systems science

(05:39) Importance of illities in systems

(06:35) Interest in space and Mars settlement

(11:50) Excitement in the field of space exploration

(13:41) Exploration of lagrange points

(15:06) Mars as a potential settlement

(17:15) Long-term vision for Mars settlement

(18:10) Educational background and journey to MIT

(21:28) ETH's space program and future opportunities

(22:45) Childhood dreams and current curiosity

(26:03) Reading preferences and interest in science fiction

(27:03) Favorite places in Zurich

(28:23) Closing remarks