Barakissa Gakou

I am a Black African Muslim woman and first-generation college graduate from Côte d'Ivoire, who moved to the U.S. to pursue higher education. I earned my mechanical engineering degree from Texas Tech University, graduating cum laude with a 3.866 GPA. At TE Connectivity, I gained experience in engineering, procurement, and product management, earning two patent awards and leading cost reduction, localization, and supply chain efficiency initiatives. My work in advanced procurement for E-mobility sparked my interest in supply chain management, driving my transition into product management, where I optimized margins and enhanced financial transparency. Passionate about mentorship and leadership, I played a key role in the African Heritage Employee Resource Group, helped early-career professionals through TE Young Professionals (TEYP), mentored interns, and spoke at SHE (Show, Help, Employ) to inspire young minority girls in STEM. Now pursuing an MBA in Supply Chain and Analytics, I aim to lead global supply chain operations, optimize efficiency, and drive sustainable, inclusive business practices in emerging markets.