February 27, 2025
By Chloe Arrington

At the George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Black History Month holds particular significance, not only as a time to commemorate the past but also to champion the successes of members of the Woodruff School community. This month is a time to celebrate the contributions of Black individuals throughout history and their legacies, and to amplify those who continue the work for representation and equity today.

James Hazzard, ME 2020, is an associate software engineer at BlackRock, a global asset manager and technology provider, and serves on the Woodruff Young Alumni Council. He talked to us about his time at the Woodruff School, the importance of representation, and how his family's support has shaped his journey.
 

Please tell us a little about yourself. Where are you from originally? Can you talk about your time at the Woodruff School?

My name is James Hazzard, and I'm originally from Savannah, Georgia. While at Georgia Tech, I aimed to leave a positive mark. I participated in a work study position with the Woodruff School finance office, contributed to the Flowers Invention Studio, and served as a Woodruff Ambassador. Beyond academics, the Woodruff School was where I built lasting friendships and gained invaluable knowledge and skills that continue to guide me in my professional life today.
 

Why did you want to pursue a STEM education?

From an early age, I was driven to build, create, and problem-solve, whether dismantling electronics or constructing with Lego and K'nex building sets. These experiences sparked a spirit of innovation that led me to FIRST Robotics in high school and ultimately inspired me to pursue an education in STEM.
 

How would you reflect on your experience growing up with your identity, and what does Black History Month mean to you?

Growing up with my identity has shaped me in profound ways. It taught me resilience, pride, and the importance of representation. As a Black man in STEM, I understand the value of breaking barriers and creating pathways for others. Black History Month is a time to honor the triumphs and struggles of those who came before us while inspiring future generations to dream bigger and push the mantle further. It celebrates culture, growth, achievement, and the ongoing journey toward equality and excellence.
 

Who are some of your inspirations and mentors? Can you tell us about an early experience that influenced you personally or professionally?

Most of my inspiration and mentorship has come from my family. As one of the younger members of my family, I was fortunate to have a strong support system and role models to look up to and learn from. Their guidance instilled in me the values of hard work, excellence, and perseverance, shaping my personal and professional journey. My family's influence has been a constant source of strength and motivation, whether it was watching my relatives overcome their own challenges or seeing them reach triumphant moments in their professional journeys.
 

Have you faced personal and professional obstacles, and if so, how have you overcome them?

I've faced both personal and professional obstacles that have shaped who I am today. One of the most challenging personal moments was losing my mother, along with her fight with multiple sclerosis. She and it taught me the importance of resilience and finding strength in the support of my community. Professionally, transitioning from a mechanical engineering background to a career in software engineering was a significant and challenging shift. I overcame this by leaning into my training from Georgia Tech and the Woodruff School, seeking mentorship and learning opportunities, and trusting my ability to adapt and grow.
 

How can we continue championing the importance of representation at Georgia Tech and in our personal lives?

The most important thing is to be intentional about genuinely advocating for all underrepresented people at Georgia Tech and in this country. This begins with creating inclusive environments for all. On campus, this involves supporting diverse student organizations, advocating for equitable policies, promoting mentorship programs, and ensuring curricula reflect global perspectives. Beyond Georgia Tech, it's about amplifying underrepresented voices, challenging unconscious bias, and actively advocating for equity. This creates an environment where we celebrate and leverage our differences, and by committing to continuous learning, we can build a culture where everyone feels valued and empowered to succeed.
 

What is your favorite mantra or quote?

"Treat people better than you expect to be treated." I've put my own spin on the classic saying, "Treat people how you want to be treated," because I believe that if we all show respect, kindness, and care at an even higher level, we can create a more compassionate and connected community.