Al Trujillo, AE 81

What is your most gratifying Tech volunteer experience?
Most definitely serving the Alumni Association. My time as Trustee, and on the Executive Committee has provided great visibility into the activities and challenges at GT. Best part is the opportunity to stay in contact with faculty and staff on campus, and also the chance to interact and get to know current students and young alumni. The mentor program has been especially satisfying, getting a lot more out of the program than I put in.

Who inspired you to get involved with Tech?
The seed of ‘obligation’ to stay involved at GT was planted while I was a student. I arrived on campus with great apprehension both about the academic challenge, but also about fitting in socially into an environment that was new to me. The academic staff became an important part of my life, on the one hand continually challenging me to do more academically, while supporting me and encouraging me to think broadly about the future. I am especially indebted to Dr Ducoffe, the head of the Aerospace School while I attended and Dr Robert Carlson who was my undergrad advisor. Great educators.

What is your advice for other alumni considering involvement?
Be patient — but stay aware of GT activities. There are so many areas of interest, you may not be attracted to one right away. Suggest you get started, perhaps in a small way, and in time you will no doubt be exposed to some area, or project, or activity that you have great passion for, that needs your help. The connection will likely happen when you least expect it.

Who are some Tech alumni you admire and why?
There are many alumni that I admire, many of which are well known and recognized. However I am most impressed by recent graduates, who overcame great obstacles and challenges to gain their degrees, and now enter an uncertain career environment. Instead of being down and resentful about their "˜poor timing’, I have been inspired by our newest alumni. They are resourceful and not afraid to "˜out-hustle’ others their age. Our future is in terrific hands, something we can all gain great comfort from.