Each week, the College of Engineering highlights an outstanding member of our engineering community. This week, we are introducing Kuba Preis, an assistant professor of mechanical engineering whose Cal Poly journey has brought him from student to professor.

What brought you to Cal Poly College of Engineering?

I did my undergraduate degree at Cal Poly, and I am passionate about the student-focused Learn by Doing culture here. Starting my sophomore year, it was my dream to return as a professor, so I am thrilled to be back!

Tell me about your research interests and why you are passionate about this topic. 

My research focuses on metal additive manufacturing, or 3D printing. This topic has so much interesting physics, which is intellectually stimulating. Ultimately, we want to make a machine that can make any metal part on demand. What is your favorite part of working in engineering education? Engineering education is especially interesting to me because it allows you to learn how to model the physical world using mathematics. I really enjoy helping students have the "aha” moment of finally understanding difficult engineering concepts.

What is your favorite place in San Luis Obispo County and why? 

I love nature. One of my favorite places is Montaña de Oro. It has a beautiful coastline and is a great place to hike.

How do you like to spend your free time?

I like to spend time outdoors camping and hiking. I also have spent the past eight years writing an engineering textbook, so I work on that as well in my free time.

What are you most looking forward to in the upcoming academic year? 

I am very much looking forward to interacting with Cal Poly students as an educator. I also am looking forward to working with Cal Poly students on some exciting hands-on projects!

What is the most helpful advice you’ve received?

One of the most helpful things I have read with regard to engineering/product development is that the best products solve a “very annoying” problem. So, when beginning to work on a problem, make sure you interact deeply with the end user and fundamentally understand the current solution and why the proposed solution better addresses the issue.

How do you encourage engineering students to make an impact on the community?

In my interactions with students, I place a lot of emphasis on the culture of the classroom and the lab. If a positive culture of helping each other is fostered, students are naturally inclined to work together and have a positive impact on those around them.