Each year, 12 former students from Texas A&M University are recognized with the highest honor bestowed on any Aggie, the Distinguished Alumni Award. This award goes to former students who have made a significant impact at Texas A&M and the surrounding communities. These Aggies consistently follow the Texas A&M Core Values and make impactful changes in and around their fields of study, philanthropic pursuits and efforts to continuously support our current students. Becoming a distinguished alumnus is not something an Aggie can simply work toward; it is something these former students embody.
The 2025 AFS Distinguished Alumni from the College of Engineering are:
- Dr. James M. "Mike" Walker '66 — Houston, Texas
- Stephen H. "Steve" Vincent '73 — Bryan, Texas
- John Zachry '84 — San Antonio, Texas
Dr. James 'Mike' Walker '66
The late Mike Walker spent his life living the Aggie Core Values. His hard work and dedication to his education led him to Texas A&M, where he graduated top of his undergraduate class. Walker then completed his master’s degree at the University of Texas at Austin and later his Ph.D. at Texas A&M, rounding out his education. Walker worked as an offshore engineer before partnering with two colleagues to form his company, Dril-Quip. Along the way, Walker was recognized by the Distinguished Mechanical Engineering Academies at both the University of Texas and Texas A&M.
Stephen H. "Steve" Vincent '73
As a leader and advocate in the Bryan-College Station community, Vincent has built a career defined by his dedication and service. After graduating from Texas A&M with a bachelor’s degree in engineering technology, Vincent has used his skills to serve others. In 2008, Vincent founded a nonprofit, Power from the SON. The team, which consists of engineers, business staff, construction workers and people of many other skills, works together to help establish efficient and safe electrical systems for hospitals, schools and missions in the developing world. His commitment to Texas A&M remains strong as he continues supporting future generations of Aggies.
John Zachry '84
Serving as chairman and CEO of Zachry Group, Zachry is a leader in engineering, construction and maintenance services. Under his leadership, the Zachry Group has expanded into a nationally recognized firm known for its complex industrial projects and commitment to safety and innovation. Beyond his professional achievements, Zachry is an engaged civic leader and philanthropist. He has served on numerous boards, including the United Way, the Texas Biomedical Research Institute and the American Heart Association. Zachry is a trustee for the Texas Foundation for Conservation, where he serves as a director of the San Antonio Livestock Exposition and a past executive committee member. As a proud third-generation Aggie, Zachry continues to give back to Texas A&M through his service on the Texas A&M University College of Engineering Advisory Council and the board of directors for The Association of Former Students. In recognition of his leadership and lifetime achievements, Zachry was awarded the ECC Achievement Award in 2022.