Foster School of Business and Engineering students connect with industry leaders and reflect on the power of community, mentorship, and purpose.

On April 8, 2025, the University of Washington’s College of Engineering and Foster School of Business hosted their annual TransDigm event in Founders Hall. The room was filled with excited students—Peacock Scholars, participants in Engineering’s Pathways for Inclusive Excellence (PIE), and Foster’s Business Bridge students—ready to connect with professionals from TransDigm and its subsidiaries, AvtechTyee and Hytek Finishes.

This event was more than just an opportunity to network. It became an inspiring exchange of ideas and life lessons, one that reminded students of the value of mentorship, purpose, and forging one’s own path.

Welcoming Words and Unexpected Wisdom
As participants arrived, the atmosphere was lively—filled with conversation, laughter, and anticipation. The event began with opening remarks from the Deans of the College of Engineering and the Foster School of Business. What followed was a powerful and candid discussion with Kevin Stein, President and CEO of TransDigm, a global leader in the design and production of highly engineered aircraft components.

Kevin shared stories from his personal journey—one that surprised many in the room. With a PhD in inorganic chemistry, his background wasn’t what most expected from a CEO. He didn’t begin in business but transitioned into it later in life, a testament to the idea that career paths are rarely linear. For students unsure of what lies ahead, this message provided comfort and clarity: it’s okay not to have everything figured out right away.

One standout moment was Kevin’s reflection on finding passion and honing your natural strengths. He emphasized that discovering what you’re good at and putting in the work to refine it can be just as crucial as following a rigid plan. For many of us, this perspective reshaped how we think about success and fulfillment.

Connecting with Industry Professionals
After Kevin’s talk, students had the chance to speak directly with professionals from AvtechTyee and Hytek Finishes. These conversations were full of insight and encouragement, offering a real-world glimpse into potential career paths—and opening doors to future opportunities.

As a Peacock Scholar, I felt proud to be part of a community that supports events like this—spaces where we are not only welcomed but empowered. Programs like Engineering Dean’s Scholars have helped me feel prepared and supported throughout my college journey. When I think of this community, the word that comes to mind is belief—in our potential, and in our ability to grow into it.

Lasting Impact
This event was a success on every level. It offered access to people who have walked the path before us, shared invaluable advice, and showed us what it means to lead with purpose. These are the kinds of moments that stick with you, long after the event ends.

This post is adapted from the original article, “TransDigm Event Uplifts Students with Insight and Opportunity,” published on Medium.com: https://medium.com/foster-school-of-business/transdigm-event-uplifts-students-with-insight-and-opportunity-2910823afa79

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