An initiative of CEO Leadership Alliance Orange County (CLAOC)
An initiative of CEO Leadership Alliance Orange County (CLAOC)
Life Sciences Engineer Builds Community in OC
Kendra Washington developed an early interest in healthcare. Growing up in Florida, she got a first-hand introduction to the field through her mom, who worked as an OB/GYN ultrasound technologist.
Strong in math and science, Kendra learned how to do 3D modeling in a high school engineering class. While at Georgia Tech working toward a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering, she had the chance to print prosthetics, a great intersection of all her interests. She was introduced to Edwards Lifesciences through a college internship and offered a full position following graduation. (The division where Kendra works was acquired by BD in September 2024. She continues to work in OC.)
Today, Kendra tests and refines prototypes of new tools in the lab. She recently had the opportunity to travel to a hospital, where she saw how the tools she is helping to create are being used. She finds it exciting to see the tools in practice in real surgeries and to get the chance to teach others how to use them.
Kendra found out about the OC Fellows program from a colleague at Edwards Lifesciences soon after she relocated to OC. “You’re on your own after college. I was looking to build my local community, and I appreciated how the program helped me make connections.”
The professional development opportunities in the program were one aspect Kendra valued, especially the chance to meet and hear from CEOs. Kendra also points to the service component as something she continues to appreciate. She describes the college students she has mentored as “amazing.”
Kendra advanced her capabilities in many areas:
Now on the OC Fellows Advisory Board, Kendra joins learning and social events, fostering community and making sure people feel included.
“Kendra was an OC Fellow as we were beginning the program, and she has now helped to refine and strengthen the program. She is also participating in our pilot mentor program with local university students, something we hope to embed in the OC Fellows program,” says Peggy Wolff, who runs the OC Fellows program for CLAOC.
Kendra encourages other professionals in the early stage of their careers to apply to be an OC Fellow. She says the time commitment is reasonable and there is so much to be gained– from good food and good people to skills that will help young professionals grow in their careers.
