Kevin Gao worked two seasons as Illinois' Director of Football Creative Video from May 2023-January 2025. He is a 2023 graduate of the University of Illinois, where he served as an intern in football video during his undergraduate years. 

Gao created social content for the Illinois football program's social channels and recruiting efforts. He oversaw the production of creative video for the recruiting staff and led the planning and execution of social media content.

Gao also worked for some of the top sports entities during his undergraduate years, including work with the College Football Playoff, Bleacher Report, and the WNBA's Chicago Sky, as well as freelance roles with Red Bull, Samsung, and the NBA. He worked with the College Football Playoffs' social media team on two occasions, producing video social content for both the 2021 Playoff Semifinals at the Orange Bowl and the 2023 National Championship game in Los Angeles. 

Gao played club lacrosse at Illinois, while also helping with the team's social channels. He graduated in 2023 with a degree in advertising.