
Viterbi Voices: The Podcast
Welcome to life at the USC Viterbi School of Engineering. Classes, student organizations, faculty, research, hands-on projects, and don't forget our social lives outside of class - it's all up for discussion with regular appearances and interviews with special guests. Viterbi Voices: The Podcast is hosted by Paul Ledesma (Executive Director, Undergraduate Admission) and current student Hannah Fonseca (Mechanical Engineering, Class of 2027).
Viterbi Voices: The Podcast
From Astronautical Engineering to Amazon with Alex Coco, MS Mechanical Engr ‘17, BS Astronautical Engr ‘16
In this episode, Paul reconnects with Viterbi alumna Alex Coco, Amazon AIR manager, to discuss his path from earning both a B.S. in Astronautical Engineering and an M.S. in Mechanical Engineering at USC to building a career in aerospace and logistics. Alex reflects on his professional journey from Boeing to Amazon, the lessons he carried forward from his time at USC, and how he has developed systems to balance work, family, and personal priorities. They also revisit formative study abroad experiences in Italy, the decision to broaden his skill set beyond aerospace, and the importance of self-awareness and communication in professional growth.
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If you are thinking about applying for Fall 2026, check out all of our events for you at https://viterbiadmission.usc.edu/events. Virtual, On-Campus, and Near You - Live Chats with Students, Faculty Roundtables for Your Major, Info Sessions, and our Large Open House on October 19!
If you're planning on applying as a First-Year student for Fall 2026, go to https://apply.commonapp.org/login?ma=492 to start your application now! More on deadlines and how we run admission is at https://viterbiadmission.usc.edu/apply.