In the fast-paced world of engineering, where innovation is key and collaboration is paramount, Jared Girouard stands out as a shining example of the transformative power of leadership development. A graduate of The Gordon Institute of Engineering Leadership working at MITRE, Jared’s journey is one marked by growth, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. At age 26, Jarred has earned three promotions, two within an eleven-month period.  

After being promoted to Senior Software Engineer, a Lead Software Engineer and Group Leader position opened within MITRE. Jared was interested in applying but knew he would compete with colleagues ten years his senior with significantly more experience. In January 2024, at The Gordon Institute Alumni New Year celebration, Jared received the push and encouragement needed to apply for the open position from an alum of the Gordon Program and fellow MITRE employee. After applying, Jared received coaching from his Gordon Mentor, Jeff Delaney, and encouragement from his network of fellow Gordon Alumni. One month later, Jared landed the Lead Software Engineer and Group Leader position.  

Jared Girouard MITRE

As a Lead Software Engineer and Group Leader at MITRE, Jared’s role is multifaceted. He spearheads an agile software development team tasked with creating innovative solutions to challenges faced by Air Force mission planners. His responsibilities range from task generation and product road mapping to active contribution to the codebase. In parallel, as a Group Leader, Jared embodies the essence of leadership by nurturing a team of engineers, advocating for their growth, and ensuring project success through effective management. 

“I always thought of a leader as a person with formal authority over me due to their title or position within the organization. In Leadership Development class, we had a whole module on the topic of leading without a title. After this module, I started to think about leadership differently, and it had an instant impact on my work. I realized I had the chance to be a leader every time I gained and shared knowledge on a technical matter, every time I mentored an intern, and participated in a meeting. I realized that leadership is much more of a mindset than a title. ” 

Jared’s leadership journey took a significant leap forward through his participation in the Gordon Program’s Challenge Project. Focused on enhancing collaboration across outdated mission planning applications, Jared delved into real-time collaboration technologies, notably Conflict-Free Replicated Data Types (CRDTs). This endeavor not only showcased his technical prowess but also honed his leadership skills, requiring him to navigate approvals, lead technical development, and orchestrate crucial meetings with stakeholders. 

Reflecting on his experience, Jared emphasizes the pivotal role of the Gordon Program in his professional evolution. The program’s curriculum instilled in him a profound realization: leadership transcends titles. Armed with this mindset, Jared embraced opportunities to lead within his team, mentor colleagues, and drive impactful change, propelling his career forward with newfound confidence. 

Jared Girouard MITRE

Moreover, the program’s emphasis on diversity of thought and experience left an indelible mark on Jared’s approach to team dynamics. Recognizing the richness that diverse perspectives bring to problem-solving, he actively seeks input from all team members, fostering an inclusive environment where every voice is heard and valued. 

Jared’s journey culminated in a series of well-deserved promotions, a testament to his dedication and the efficacy of the Gordon Program. From Senior Software Engineer to Lead Software Engineer and Group Leader, Jared’s ascent is a testament to the transformative impact of leadership development. 

Beyond career accolades, Jarred cherishes the lasting friendships forged during the program. The cohort experience fostered deep bonds among participants, underscoring the importance of community in professional growth. 

As Jared Girouard’s journey exemplifies, the Gordon Program equips engineers with more than just technical skills—it cultivates leaders poised to drive innovation, foster collaboration, and make a lasting impact in the world of engineering.