Andrew Bainbridge, a junior in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Texas A&M University, was recently named the 2021-22 deputy corps commander for the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets.
The Corps is the largest, oldest and most-visible student organization and leadership-training program at Texas A&M. As deputy corps commander, Bainbridge will be serving in one of three top senior leadership positions. A third-generation Aggie with a family history of Corps involvement and military service, Bainbridge is excited to continue a legacy of service and leadership.
“Getting this position is really exciting because I can make a larger impact on many people,” Bainbridge said. “The current deputy corps commander passed on his rank to me and it said ‘Be the Light.’ That meant a lot to me because I’ll be able to serve and be a resource for people throughout the Corps. I am in more of a support role, which I actually enjoy because I help other people find where they want to go. I am super excited and honored to be in this position.”
As deputy corps commander, Bainbridge will assist and work closely with the Corps commander to establish policies and vision for the Corps and its cadets. He will also serve as a resource for numerous special units to help them accomplish their specific goals.
Getting this position is really exciting because I can make a larger impact on many people.
To earn this role, cadets must complete a thorough selection process that consists of an application and an interview with a panel of peers and staff. All applicants are then evaluated on academic performance, performance in the Corps, success in previous leadership positions, peer and staff evaluations and their leadership vision for the future.
“The Corps does a good job of teaching life skills — time management, discipline, being able to work with other people,” he said. “There are several benefits you can get from the Corps, whether you want to go into the military or not.”
Throughout his time at Texas A&M, Bainbridge has learned that not everyone’s academic and professional journeys will be the same. He has embraced the value of challenges in life and the opportunities they bring to discover more about himself and moving forward.
“I think what is wonderful about the Corps is that it pushes you to challenge yourself and get out of your comfort zones,” Bainbridge said. “My biggest piece of advice is just being willing to view those difficult times as opportunities and know that it’s going to build you as a person. In terms of engineering, it’s going to be tough. If you enjoy it at the end of the day, I think it’s totally worth it.”
Upon graduation, Bainbridge plans to follow his grandfather’s footsteps and commission into the United States Air Force.