Feb 01, 2022 
Emili S. Taixés is the CEO and co-founder of Athos, the first 3D printed and customized climbing shoe ever. Following his passion for innovation, technology and sports, Emili and his team are defining the new rules of the industry based on products with better fit with the user and the planet. Mass customization and on-demand production are some examples of the opportunities that 3D printing technology brings to the table to design a better world. Emili will be speaking at the upcoming virtual event focusing on 3D printing for performance sports.
Jenny: When was the first encounter you had with 3D printing? What was that experience like? What were you thinking at that moment?
Emili: It was during the master in Product Design and Development at Elisava.
My first experience was doing some prototypes. It was a fast way to have a volumetric idea of your design and improve it through quick iterations.
Jenny: What inspired you to start your journey in 3D printing?
Emili: For me, the best thing about 3D printing is that it is a growing technology that is becoming better and better everyday, and it really has so much potential.
It brings so many things to the table that are not possible with the traditional processes. Some examples that we are applying in Athos are the industrialization of mass customization, or the creation of more sustainable business models with on-demand production. Having the capacity to create a retail business without stock is a game-changer.
Jenny: Who inspired you the most along this journey in 3D printing?
Emili: The best experience that I have lived is being part of the Formnext 2021 Additive Manufacturing exhibition in Frankfurt.
It is really inspiring to see all the innovation that moves the progress of 3D printing technology. I loved that. And I love to be part of that progress.
Jenny: What motivates you the most for your work?
Emili: Creating positive change through innovation.
Jenny: What is/are the biggest obstacle(s) in your line of work? If you have conquered them, what were your solutions?
Emili: The biggest obstacle is to keep the focus on what is actually important.
You always need to do so many things, but it is a priority to stop and think which things are important and which are not. Learning to say “no” is a great lesson.
Jenny: What do you think is (are) the biggest challenge(s) in 3D Printing/bio-printing? What do you think the potential solution(s) is (are)?
Emili: The product adaptability to each person is a big challenge. It seems easier than what actually is.
Another big challenge is the development of much responsible and sustainable technology.
I think that the cooperation between companies can help in so many ways and is important to share knowledge and continue improving.
Jenny: If you are granted three wishes by a higher being, what would they be?
Emili:
Health
Love
A world where everybody has the opportunity and resources to decide their future.
Jenny: What advice would you give to a smart driven college student in the “real world”? What bad advices you heard should they ignore?
Emili: Good advice: believe in you and keep progressing. A little step is better than nothing.
Bad advice: “wait for the best moment”. Never is the best moment, so waiting is the best way for not doing anything. If you truly believe in something, start today.
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