Speakers

As a seasoned executive coach and strategic business advisor, I transform process- and data-driven engineers into strategic executive leaders. With over 20 years of experience in leadership, operations, engineering management, and program management, I bring a wealth of expertise to my coaching practice. I pride myself on being a generalist with deep knowledge across multiple business operating areas, enabling me to deliver tailored solutions for complex leadership challenges.

From Cockpit to Corner Office: Transforming Engineers into Effective Leaders

Drawing on more than two decades of leadership and operations experience—including service as a U.S. Naval Flight Officer—Ron Higgs specializes in guiding process-focused engineers to become strategic executive leaders. In this session, he will share the practical frameworks he has honed through years of coaching, engineering management, and program leadership across multiple industries. Attendees will gain actionable strategies for transitioning from a purely technical mindset to one encompassing high-level vision, emotional intelligence, and data-driven decision-making. By highlighting lessons learned in naval aviation—such as situational awareness, clear communication, and adaptability—Ron equips engineers with the tools and mindset needed to navigate the challenges of leading teams, managing stakeholders, and steering organizations toward success.

Jake Kennington is a licensed Structural Engineer with extensive experience navigating the technical and personal demands of the engineering profession. Passionate about fostering a holistic approach to success, Jake helps engineers and other professionals find meaning by aligning career ambitions with a purposeful and fulfilling life.

Jake shares his insights through a weekly newsletter focused on personal development for engineers, available alongside his coaching services at humanengineercoach.com. He is also the author of a children’s book and has additional literary projects in development.

Engineer Yourself First

In structural engineering, the "strong column, weak beam" principle is a critical design strategy that ensures a structure's stability during extreme events by prioritizing the integrity of columns over beams. This principle can also serve as a metaphor for personal and professional growth. By strengthening the "columns" of personal development—such as cultivating self-discipline, enhancing self-awareness, and fostering creativity—we create a foundation that supports sustained professional success and overall well-being. This presentation explores practical strategies, including mastering morning routines, reflective writing, and engaging in creative pursuits outside of work, to build a resilient personal foundation that leads to long-term productivity and fulfillment.

After a rollercoaster 10 years working at Apple, Meta, and several startups, Leon decided to launch a Youtube Channel to help mechanical engineers better navigate their careers. His goal is to democratize access to the career knowledge he wish he had earlier.