Founder Focus Ep 15: Dr Vu Tran of Black Sky Industries. From Go1 Unicorn To Going Again In Defense Tech.

In this episode of Founder Focus, we are joined by Dr Vu Tran. 

Vu is a visionary entrepreneur and co-founder of Black Sky Industries, a leading Australian aerospace and defense company specializing in sovereign solid rocket propulsion systems and advanced manufacturing. Before co-founding Black Sky Industries, Vu Tran was a  co-founder of Go1, one of the world's leading online learning platforms. Go1, has raised approximately $400 million in total funding with the last valuation of approximately $3 Billion.

The key topics of the episode include: 

• Transition from Go1 to Defense Tech: Vu explained his journey from co-founding Go1 to co-founding Black Sky Industries. He emphasized the importance of succession planning and his realization that he thrives in early-stage ventures, which led to his pivot toward defense technology.

• Focus on Sovereignty in Defense: Vu highlighted the critical need for sovereign capabilities in Australia, explaining the risks of over-reliance on foreign defense systems and the importance of building local capacity, particularly in rocket propulsion and related technologies.

• Insights for Founders: Vu shared his belief in the value of self-awareness and understanding one’s strengths and passions. He spoke about the importance of stepping back as a founder when necessary and fostering a strong organizational culture to sustain growth.

• Cultural Leadership Approach: At Black Sky Industries, Vu introduced the concept of separating HR administrative tasks from people and culture development. This approach aims to ensure personal and professional growth for employees while aligning their roles with the company’s mission.

• Defense as a Growing Market: Vu discussed the expanding total addressable market (TAM) for defense technology globally, emphasizing the high demand and low supply for solid rocket motors and other technologies. He pointed out that defense tech is an emerging space with significant investment opportunities.

• Challenges and Misconceptions in Defense: Vu addressed public criticism and misconceptions about working in the defense sector. He emphasized the defensive—not offensive—nature of Black Sky’s mission, focusing on protecting sovereignty rather than aggression.

• Bootstrapping Success: Black Sky Industries is entirely bootstrapped and profitable, with about 30 employees. Vu shared lessons from his Go1 experience about taking calculated risks and scaling sustainably.

• Technology and Innovation: Vu mentioned the potential second-order effects of defense technology on civilian applications, such as using rocket motors for research and innovation in other industries.

• Broader Perspectives on Venture and Growth: The discussion touched on the challenges of venture capital and the need for founders and investors to focus on areas with less competition and high-growth potential, such as defense.

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