Contributing to the greater good is the driving force behind Mike Dworakowski’s success.

Dworakowski, a December 2017 graduate who studied supply chain management and finance, said he enjoys both the technical and business aspects of creative thinking and using that combination to help others.

He assisted the Formula SAE Electric team, where he served as a co-captain, in pursuing the creation of electric race cars—the only full electric vehicle team in Michigan. He handled the finances for the Supply Chain Association (SCA) as treasurer. He also represented the university at national case competitions with the SCA.

“I'm someone who is incredibly curious and interested about everything, which leads me to trying to learn as much as I possibly can,” he said. “I strive for excellence in everything I do and I try to bring up everyone alongside me. That relentless devotion, which has led to incredible opportunities and recognition for myself and the university, is why I am a Difference Maker.”

His determination and dedication is what got Dworakowski noticed by SpaceX. After meeting a SpaceX recruiter at a Formula SAE competition, Dworakowski later landed two internships—one in Cape Canaveral, Fla., assisting with the first successful Falcon 9 rocket launch landing; the other in their California rocket-building facility.

In addition to SpaceX, Dworakowski had internships with Toyota North America, Nissan North America and BorgWarner. Prior to graduation, Dworakowski accepted an international supply chain consultant position with 4flow, a German-based company with an office in Detroit.

“No matter where I would work I feel the need to contribute to something that serves the greater good, helps the populace or advances the cause of humanity. In short, something that makes a difference,” he said. “I'm a very creative person who lives to help people as much as possible. So as long as I can do that, I'll be happy.”