Calvin Young: From Engineering Student to Baltimore’s Deputy Mayor

Calvin Allen Young III has transitioned from a mechanical engineering student to the Deputy Mayor of Community and Economic Development for the City of Baltimore. His journey began in Baltimore, where he was raised by a single mother. Young’s early experiences shaped his determination to pursue a career that would enable him to effect positive change in his community.

Young’s academic path took a pivotal turn when he enrolled at Polytechnic University, now known as NYU Tandon, in 2005. He was drawn to mechanical engineering, balancing his passion for political science with a pragmatic desire for financial stability. However, the engineering classroom often felt isolating for a Black student like him. Yet, Young found support and community in the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), where he eventually became president of the student chapter.

Leadership Development through NSBE

At NSBE, Young honed skills in leadership, budgeting, and advocacy, which he recognized as essential for effective problem-solving. He later served in the national organization, managing budgets in the millions and coordinating conferences attended by thousands. According to Young, these experiences provided him with a foundational understanding of strategic leadership that complemented his technical education.

Throughout his academic journey, Young received invaluable support from mentors. Associate Dean of Admissions Beverly Johnson played a crucial role in keeping him on track, offering guidance during challenging times. He also appreciated the financial assistance provided by Jerry Hultin, the university’s president, which allowed him to focus on his studies without the constant stress of financial burdens.

Young graduated in 2010 with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and joined United Technologies Corporation’s Operations Leadership Program. His subsequent roles at notable companies like Pratt & Whitney and Sikorsky Aircraft revealed a gap: the top decision-makers often lacked engineering backgrounds. This realization prompted Young to pursue an MBA at Harvard Business School, which he completed in 2015.

A Moment with a President and a Shift in Focus

During his time at Harvard, Young secured an internship at the White House, where he had a memorable encounter with President Barack Obama. As Young recalls, their eyes locked in a brief moment that underscored the importance of connection and leadership. This experience solidified his desire to engage in governance, particularly for communities like his own in Baltimore.

In August 2015, at just 27 years old, Young announced his candidacy for mayor of Baltimore, aiming to become the city’s 50th mayor in the 2016 election. While he did not win, the campaign provided him with critical experience, name recognition, and connections with civic leaders. Young emphasized that his path from engineering to politics made sense, viewing mechanical engineering as a means to create systems that benefit people.

After his campaign, Young co-founded an investment firm focused on impact-driven education companies before returning to public service. He approached Mayor Brandon Scott with a clear intention: “Put me on the hard stuff.” This willingness to tackle complex challenges led him to his current role as Deputy Mayor.

Today, Young oversees initiatives related to tourism, neighborhood revitalization, and small businesses. He acknowledges the collaborative nature of city governance, stating, “It takes much more to run a city, so there are many of us pitching in.” His daily responsibilities range from addressing gentrification to supporting struggling business corridors, all requiring the analytical skills he developed as an engineer.

Reflecting on his journey, Young recognizes that his engineering background provided him with more than technical expertise. It instilled in him a framework for problem-solving, teaching him to break down complex issues into manageable components. He has learned that success is often a collective effort, and those who achieve it have a responsibility to uplift others.

Young’s experiences—from high school JROTC commander to engineering student to city official—illustrate the importance of leadership, connection, and a commitment to public service. As he navigates the complexities of governance, he remains dedicated to making systems work better for the people of Baltimore, ensuring that his work creates lasting positive change for the community he loves.