Alums of the PDP program describe how the Product Development Program (PDP) prepared them for their careers:
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Omari Jones
Network Strategist, Rotational Program, Johnson & Johnson
PDP Class of 2024
Omari is a part of the 2.5 year Johnson & Johnson Global Operations Leadership Development Program (GOLD), which focuses on rotations throughout supply chain and operational roles, along with leadership training and networking. His first rotation is within J&J Innovative Medicine in the Small Molecule Product Portfolio team, where he is working on creating a 5-15 year network strategy for several of their internal and external global sites.
“I chose the PDP program to get a more industry-based learning to complement the chemical engineering technical skills I gained from undergrad. It was the perfect blend of engineering and business that made me a well rounded applicant for the GOLD program, especially utilizing the skills I learned from my capstone project. I believe the PDP allowed me to differentiate myself not only as a candidate with a unique degree, but also as one with a more industry tailored skillset.”
Sydnee Ruff
Scientist, P&G Ventures
PDP Class of 2021
Recently promoted, Sydnee has been a strong contributor to the technology evaluation and commercialization efforts at Procter & Gamble across both the P&G Ventures and Personal Health Care spaces. Her work at Procter & Gamble has focused on product formulation and process development of topical forms like serums, lotions, creams, and gels across 3 brands. Her ability to innovate by drawing inspiration from cross-category partners and partnering with external resources has influenced the success in her career thus far. She has also provided strong leadership with student recruitment efforts at UC Berkeley since graduating in 2021.
“I chose PDP because following my two rotations at JNJ Consumer (now Kenvue), I was highly interested in working in the CPG (Consumer Packaged Goods) industry. I felt like my undergraduate education did not fully bridge the gap between traditional chemical engineering principles and skills needed to work in non-classical ChemE industries. I was looking for a program that could not only teach me how to practically approach and solve problems in the industry, but also cross over into the business/commercial side. Being able to make those connections and relay business impacts to a non-technical colleague is truly an invaluable skill that I would not have if it were not for PDP. Other programs I looked into did not have as rich of a course catalog, nor faculty with significant industry experience like PDP.”
Aubri Thompson
Founder & CEO, Rebrand Skincare
PDP Class of 2020
Two-time graduate of UC Berkeley (BS 2017, MS 2020) Aubri founded Rebrand Skincare, a sustainable beauty company based in the Bay Area. With a novel refill system that allows for at-home and in-person refilling, Rebrand Skincare is pioneering a circular economy in the beauty industry. Rebrand Skincare is sold in over 70 retailers nationwide, and has been featured in Allure, Beauty Independent, and the SF Chronicle.
"PDP allowed me to pivot from a traditional R&D role to an entrepreneur and product developer. The freedom to take courses from a range of departments was key to ideating and then launching my company. Additionally, the PDP faculty, staff, and alumni have supported me and opened their network to me throughout this journey"
Abdulrahman Bin Omar
Co-founder and CPO, Gridware
PDP Class of 2020
Abdulrahman, along with co-founders Tim Barat and Hall Chen, started Gridware - a system that monitors electric grid performance and wildfire risks in real-time. It detects faults early, allowing for timely repairs and rapid wildfire response using remote telemetry and edge AI.
Gridware has raised over $30 million from Lowecarbon, Y Combinator, True Ventures and others, and was named to Forbes 30 Under 30 List in 2022, and Time's List of Best Inventions 2022.
"The uniqueness and flexibility of PDP enabled me to expand my skills in entrepreneurship, business, and product development—areas that are often not covered in traditional advanced degrees in chemical engineering. Through PDP, I received the mentorship necessary to design a program aligned with my professional interests, ultimately leading to the founding of my current company, Gridware. I would recommend PDP to anyone who wants to position themselves uniquely in the industry, setting themselves apart from peers with conventional educational backgrounds"
David Atkins-Maters
Senior Technical Project Manager II: SW & Systems, Waymo
PDP Class of 2012
David has been lucky enough to leverage his PDP degree into some great roles in Silicon Valley over the years:
-Engineering Program Manager for iPhone development to launch at Apple
-Technical Program Management for Google HW programs - the first Pixel buds system from concept to launch
-Currently at Waymo as a Systems Program Manager working at the intersection of SW,HW, and Operations Programs
"The PDP program provided me two winning ingredients for my career: 1) a systems level understanding of product development processes - which is highly underrepresented skill set and 2) the communications, writing, and people skills to influence organizations - via the unique PDP program classes, as well as exposure to the breadth of what UC Berkeley has to offer"
Vivek Narayanan
Partner, PWC Consulting
PDP Class of 2010
Vivek is a Partner in PwC's Deals practice, with a focus on pre-deal due diligence and post-close integration of the company's operations.
"The flexible curriculum, experiencing the real world in a safe environment where it is okay to fail, and access to world-class faculty were my main attractions to the PDP program in Berkeley. The short duration of the program constantly keeps you on your toes but provides you with a well-rounded experience. The skill set you develop is easily transferable across industries. PDP opened my eyes to new career paths and opportunities, helping me learn the business side of things while also allowing me to leverage my technical skills. When I think about the work I do now, PDP gave me the necessary business and technical framework to think through complex problems."
Tawni Koutchesfahani
Head of Cell Therapy Manufacturing and Supply Chain, Nkarta
PDP Class of 2009
Tawni is the Head of Cell Therapy Manufacturing and Supply Chain at Nkarta, a clinical-stage biotechnology company advancing the development of allogeneic natural killer (NK) cell therapies. Tawni was named by the San Francisco Business Times as a 2023 Most Influential Women in Bay Area Business. Tawni is also a coach and mentor to several women executives and managers in the San Francisco Bay Area biotechnology industry.
"The Product Development Program was instrumental in shaping my career as a chemical engineer, providing me with the skills and knowledge to excel in bio manufacturing. The hands-on experience and industry insights I gained were invaluable, allowing me to become a driven professional in this field. This program was truly amazing, as it not only honed my technical abilities but also propelled my success, opening doors to numerous opportunities in biomanufacturing."