In this Alumni Spotlight Q&A, Felix Recht shares how his journey as an engineering student in Germany to strategy consultant began with a bold decision to pursue graduate studies at UCSB. Drawn by the university’s world-class research and entrepreneurial spirit, Felix immersed himself in both technical and business disciplines, combining a Ph.D. in engineering with coursework in economics through the Technology Management Program. He reflects on the unique balance UCSB offers: rigorous academic work alongside an inspiring environment that fostered deep friendships and personal growth. Today, Felix brings that same analytical mindset and collaborative approach to his consulting work with global clients. As a newly appointed member of the UCSB Alumni Board of Directors, he’s focused on strengthening alumni connections and making the Gaucho network a lasting asset for students and graduates alike.
What made you choose UCSB for your graduate studies?
I was drawn to UCSB because of its world-class engineering program and collaborative research culture. Coming from RWTH Aachen in Germany, I wanted to study in an environment where cutting-edge research met real-world application, and UCSB offered exactly that. The opportunity to work alongside top faculty and be part of an innovative ecosystem right by the ocean made it an easy decision.
You mentioned being part of the Technology Management Program. What drew you to that, and how did it shape your academic and professional path?
I was always fascinated by the intersection of technology and business. The Technology Management Program gave me valuable exposure to entrepreneurship, strategy and leadership in a way that complemented my technical Ph.D. studies. I also took finance and accounting courses in the Economics department, which broadened my perspective. Together, these experiences shaped the rest of my career by giving me the confidence not only to understand complex technologies but also to see the business side clearly, rather than treating it as a black box.
Do you have a favorite memory or tradition from your UCSB days?
One of my favorite memories is working late in the labs with classmates and then walking out to the beach to clear our heads. That blend of intense academic focus and the incredible natural environment around UCSB is unique. It made the experience not just about studying but also about building lifelong friendships.
You currently work as a consultant. Can you walk us through what a typical day or project might look like for you?
Every day is different, which is what I love about consulting. Some days I am meeting with executives at Fortune 500 companies or investment professionals at investment firms to discuss growth strategy or acquisitions. Other days, I am deep in analysis with my team, tackling a specific organizational challenge or exploring a new market opportunity. A typical project might involve helping an investor evaluate a company they are considering acquiring, understanding its strengths, risks, and potential. What keeps it exciting is that I get to learn about new companies and challenges all the time.
How did your technical and academic background from UCSB prepare you for this kind of work? Are there specific skills you still rely on today?
Absolutely. My Ph.D. taught me how to break down complex problems, analyze them rigorously and communicate solutions clearly, skills that are at the core of consulting. The discipline of research, managing long-term projects and working collaboratively with others are all things I still rely on every day. Even though I do not design circuits anymore, the analytical mindset and resilience I developed at UCSB are critical to my work with clients.
You recently joined the UCSB Alumni Board of Directors. Congratulations! What inspired you to take on this role?
Thank you. UCSB has had a profound impact on my life, both personally and professionally. I wanted to give back to the university and to help strengthen the alumni community. I have seen firsthand, through my work and through other alumni networks, how powerful those connections can be. Serving on the Board is an opportunity to help build that same level of engagement for UCSB graduates.
What are your goals for your time on the Board?
My goal is to help grow and deepen alumni connections, not just socially but also professionally. I would like to see more alumni mentoring students, supporting each other’s careers and giving back to the university. I am particularly interested in making the alumni network a real differentiator for UCSB, something that attracts students and supports them long after graduation.
You’ve mentioned the alumni board has the vision that the alumni network will be a reason why people choose to come to UCSB. How do you see the alumni association playing a role in current students’ or grads’ success?
I see it as a bridge. For students, the alumni network can provide mentorship, internships and a sense of belonging beyond campus. For graduates and professionals later in their career, it is about professional opportunities, friendships and shared pride in UCSB. The stronger and more connected we make that network, the more value it brings to everyone. It becomes part of the reason why UCSB stands out among top universities.
If you could give one piece of advice to current UCSB students or recent grads entering the tech or business world, what would it be?
Be curious and stay open to opportunities you might not expect. My own path took me from engineering to consulting, and each step taught me something new that built on the last. Do not be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone, and make the most of the full curriculum and opportunities during your time on campus. The skills and relationships you build along the way will open doors you might not even see yet.
Visit our alumni stories page for more alumni spotlights.