Bhumika Nayak

Senior Systems Engineer
Rockwell Collins
AGE: 33

Biggest break?

Getting a job at Rockwell Collins eight years ago, as that led to me growing professionally and building my family here in Cedar Rapids. I was always passionate about airplanes – my first job was an internship with Air India – so getting a job at Rockwell was a dream come true. Now, leading professionally at work and outside of work as an executive leader with AsianFest keeps me motivated to do my best each day.

What do you know now that you wish you had known earlier in your career?

Don’t be afraid of change, it is the only constant. As M.K. Gandhi said, “be the change.”

If you had $1 million to give, what causes would you support?

I would support underprivileged children with education. The best gift one can give someone is the gift to learn so they can grow to earn for themselves.

What is the biggest issue facing the Corridor?

Talent retention and retaining diversity. The younger new hires in the workforce are looking for much more in the city – fun activities, events to do around the usual work routine. Iowa could offer more diverse events like food festivals and concerts to make it a more lively place.