A distinguished alumnus and financial executive, Bret Johnsen, has recently been appointed to the University of Southern California's Board of Trustees. As the CFO of SpaceX, Johnsen brings over two decades of experience in finance, technology, and corporate leadership. Known for his commitment to fostering USC talent within the aerospace industry, Johnsen expresses excitement about contributing to the university’s future through this new role. His journey at USC not only shaped his professional trajectory but also strengthened his ties to the Trojan Family, influencing generations of students and alumni alike.

Bret Johnsen, a native of Los Angeles and an influential figure in financial management, attributes much of his success to his time at USC. After earning a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the Leventhal School of Accounting, he pursued further studies in finance. Johnsen recalls that witnessing the achievements of fellow Trojans ignited a drive within him to excel. He emphasizes how the supportive network of the Trojan Family, coupled with the rigorous education he received, empowered him to approach challenges with confidence.

Johnsen’s connection to USC extends beyond his personal career. Both his children have attended USC, studying accounting and business, which has allowed him to observe the institution's growth firsthand. Professionally, he has hired hundreds of USC graduates across various organizations, citing their strong technical skills and critical thinking abilities as key reasons for doing so. “USC grads are low-risk hires,” he explains, highlighting the value they bring to any team.

In 2011, Johnsen transitioned into the aerospace sector by joining SpaceX as its CFO. Initially skeptical about his fit in the industry, he quickly realized the alignment between SpaceX’s culture of innovation and his previous experiences in tech. Over the past 14 years, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s rapid expansion and internal financial strategies. Reflecting on his tenure, Johnsen marvels at the transformation of public perception regarding space exploration—from questioning its feasibility to eagerly anticipating milestones like Mars missions.

Prior to SpaceX, Johnsen served as CFO at Mindspeed Technologies during a tumultuous period marked by the 2008 financial crisis. Despite these challenges, he successfully restructured the company, significantly increasing its valuation. Earlier in his career, he spent nearly a decade at Broadcom, leaving as vice president and corporate controller. These experiences underscore his expertise in navigating complex financial landscapes while driving organizational growth.

As a trustee, Johnsen aims to leverage his insights to guide USC through evolving dynamics in higher education. He praises the university’s strategic decisions, such as joining the Big Ten Conference, as examples of its resilience and foresight. Looking ahead, he envisions strengthening the Trojan Family’s unity and ensuring the institution remains a beacon of excellence. For Johnsen, serving on the board represents an opportunity to give back to the communities he values most—his family, his country, and his alma mater.