Honors Fireside Chat with Craig Bomben

By Gary Hyatt , WSU Honors College – gary.hyatt1@wsu.edu

The Honors College was honored to welcome Craig Bomben (’83, MBA, FRAeS) as the featured guest for the first Honors Fireside Chat of the year. As a leader and innovator at Boeing, Craig has spent his career at the intersection of technology, teamwork, and precision — lessons he was eager to share with Honors students. Dean M. Grant Norton led Craig through a series of questions that highlighted his time at WSU, his Military career, and Boeing.

During the conversation, Craig reflected on his journey from WSU to the flight decks of aircraft carriers and the leadership rooms of Boeing. He encouraged students to focus on what’s right in front of them, to be great teammates, and to pursue their passions with purpose. His stories of both challenge and achievement offered a unique glimpse into the mindset that drives excellence.

This event was made possible through a collaboration with WSU Corporate Engagement and The Honors College. Together, they helped create an inspiring evening of reflection and motivation for our students — one that exemplifies the power of learning directly from Cougs who continue to make an impact around the world.

Thank you, Craig, for sharing your insights and reminding us that leadership starts with curiosity, courage, and connection. Go Cougs!