El Segundo's 'Gundo' Movement Champions Tangible Innovation Over Digital Pursuits

El Segundo, California – Isaiah Taylor, founder of Valar Atomics, has publicly articulated a strong philosophical stance through his "Gundo" initiative, advocating for a return to "hard tech" and tangible creation over what he describes as the "corrosive" nature of the digital economy. In a recent tweet, Taylor stated, > "Gundo serves to give young Americans something hard and rewarding to work on that is not crypto and apps. These things were a fun way to secure the bag but they are ultimately corrosive to the soul. Our companies demand everything you have, but the world becomes Minecraft to you."

The "Gundo" refers to a burgeoning hub in El Segundo, distinct from Silicon Valley's software-centric model. This movement emphasizes "atoms over bits," focusing on the development and manufacturing of physical products such as nuclear reactors, advanced materials, and defense technologies. Founders within this ecosystem aim to address complex, real-world challenges through hands-on engineering and production, fostering a "small town Americana" vibe with a serious industrial focus.

At the forefront of this movement is Taylor's company, Valar Atomics, which is actively developing modular nuclear reactors. The company recently completed "Ward Zero," a non-nuclear prototype, in just ten months, showcasing a rapid development cycle for physical infrastructure. Valar Atomics aims to produce 25-megawatt electric units, contributing to a vision of abundant, cheap energy. This approach signifies a deliberate shift towards building foundational technologies that provide essential services like power and fuel, contrasting with the purely digital realm.

Taylor's critique extends to the perceived superficiality of the digital realm. He suggests that while ventures in cryptocurrency and applications offer financial gain, they lack the profound engagement and intrinsic reward found in constructing physical goods. The "Minecraft" analogy implies a world where digital abstraction replaces the tangible impact and demanding nature of physical creation, leading to a "corrosive to the soul" outcome. This perspective highlights a desire for work that is both challenging and deeply rewarding.

The "Gundo" initiative seeks to inspire a new generation of engineers and entrepreneurs to tackle demanding, physical challenges, thereby contributing to critical infrastructure and national capabilities. This philosophical pivot aims to foster a more robust industrial base, address long-term societal needs, and ensure energy independence through the development of concrete, impactful technologies. The movement represents a broader push to re-emphasize the importance of "making things" in the Western economy.