Roku CEO discusses industry insights with engineering students
Anthony Wood, Texas A&M alumnus and Roku founder, sat down with Chancellor Glenn Hagar to discuss potential roadways to success and entrepreneurial advice for Aggie engineers.
Anthony Wood answers questions from students during an open Q&A.
On Feb. 20, Roku founder and CEO Anthony Wood ‘87 attended his second Fireside Chat in collaboration with Texas A&M University’s electrical and computer engineering department.
Moderated by Glenn Hagar, chancellor of the Texas A&M University System, the chat featured Wood’s valuable insight into building a successful tech career as an engineer — from launching his first business in a Texas A&M dorm room to scaling a global streaming platform.
Insights from an industry leader
The chat covered a series of questions that delved into his experience as a leading entrepreneur. Wood discussed the process of inventing the first digital video recorder (DVR) device and the importance of persistency when building a product and company.
“It’s very unusual to hear ‘Yes’ the first time,” Wood said. “Most people try something, and it doesn’t work. Then they learn from that and go on to make something else. It’s important to be persistent.”
Hegar’s questions and talking points led Wood to discuss critical skills necessary for students as well as how to identify ideas that are worth pursuing.
Wood also emphasized the importance of giving back through his philanthropy, the WoodNext Foundation. WoodNext funds a range of initiatives in Texas and elsewhere, in scientific and biomedical research, mental health, economic opportunity, youth services, disaster recovery and nature conservation.
A valuable and interactive experience
Anthony Wood (left) and Glenn Hagar flash the Aggie Gig ‘em.
Following the initial set of questions, the floor opened for a live audience Q&A. Students curious about entrepreneurship, product development and more presented their questions — taking the rare opportunity to gain direct insights from an experienced industry leader.
Alice Quiroz, an electrical and computer engineering student, came prepared to hear Wood’s opinion on hiring during the early stages of her startup. He counseled her on the topic, sharing details on what he would do in her situation.
“It’s not every day that you have somebody at this large a scale come and talk at Texas A&M,” she said. “It was interesting to get his take, and incredibly valuable to attend an event like this.”
The evening concluded with a meet-and-greet with Wood, allowing Aggies to connect directly with one of tech’s most influential entrepreneurs. Wood met with the students to discuss further inquiries and remained after the event to connect with fellow Aggies.
Building student success through learning opportunities
Interactive learning experiences like Wood’s Fireside Chat can provide a student with critical support as they’re launching their own careers. Getting in the room with an industry leader who has direct insight into real-world success can offer an advantage among their peers who may not have a similar opportunity.
Texas A&M’s electrical and computer engineering department aims to continue providing students with direct access to alumni – fueling their future success and creating the next generation of Aggie leaders. The department remains committed to hosting more conversations that inspire, challenge and empower the next generation of engineers.
