Gregory Warner, a 1987 alumnus from the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace, recently reflected on his experience at UC San Diego and how it shaped the foundation of his career.
From beginnings as a math major to evolving into a leader on Wall Street, Warner’s story illustrates how UC San Diego’s interdisciplinary approach, mentorship, and opportunities can propel students toward remarkable achievements.
With roots in Northern California and a desire to stay in the Golden State, Warner joined UC San Diego with an eagerness to learn and thrive. Following in his parents' footsteps, he initially chose math as his major and enrolled in Revelle College, before transitioning to engineering. The interdisciplinary approach to learning at UC San Diego allowed Warner to explore multiple subject areas, broadened his perspective, and enhanced his academic experience.
“I was given the opportunity to pursue liberal arts while also earning an engineering degree, which was unique,” Warner said.
This uncommon combination equipped Warner with the tools to navigate a dynamic and complex world, laying the groundwork for his future success.
An Influential Mentor
One of Warner’s most meaningful experiences was in the form of a mentorship with Alan Schneider, who was then a professor in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. Schneider, who initially specialized in aerospace vehicles before shifting his focus to systems science for biomedical challenges, took a personal interest in Warner. His guidance extended far beyond the classroom, including applicable skills for the field, lunches, and life lessons.
“He taught me the fundamentals of solving complex problems: laying out my assumptions, understanding the knowns and unknowns, and communicating my process clearly,” Warner said. “I think about those lessons quite often, even today.”
This core knowledge in problem-solving became a cornerstone for success and still serves Warner in his career today. As the President of Ingleside Investors on Wall Street, he continues to rely on these foundational skills to navigate complicated and dynamic challenges with confidence.
From Research to IBM: Early Career
Warner’s undergraduate journey was marked by defining projects, including coding in machine language to build functional working models. One particular project involved crafting a machine that could pivot in multiple directions–an endeavor that required ingenuity, skill, and perseverance.
Later in his academic career, an opportunity presented itself that shifted his trajectory into the business landscape. Through a UC San Diego connection, Warner successfully secured an internship at IBM. While working for multiple summers at the engineering plant in San Jose, Warner gained exposure to both the technical and business aspects of the company. This experience was a catalyst for Warner's growing interest in business, leading him to join IBM's marketing team full-time after graduation while pursuing an MBA at the Wharton School.
Giving Back
In recent years, Warner’s deep appreciation for UC San Diego inspired him to give back by establishing an endowed undergraduate scholarship fund and an annual graduate fellowship fund. These funds, part of the Dean's Scholars of Excellence program, support engineering education for students from all backgrounds, fostering the next generation of problem-solvers who will tackle global challenges.
“I feel incredibly lucky for how my life has turned out, thanks in no small part to UC San Diego,” Warner said. “I was inspired to give back to the Jacobs School to support their truly important work in student support and success.”
Advice for Future Students
Whether it was the beauty of driving along the California coast, the guidance of an exceptional mentor, or the satisfaction of building innovative projects, Warner’s story is a testament to the university’s ability to challenge and prepare students for impactful careers, no matter where their paths may lead.
For students considering UC San Diego, Warner emphasized the university’s dynamic evolution as a global leader in education.
“UC San Diego is constantly evolving and becoming,” he says. “It’s an exciting place that offers a world-class education and exceptional resources. The adaptability and skills you gain here will serve you throughout your life.”