Alvin and German conduct a great conversation with retired aerospace executive and community leader Derek “Boston” Jones ’77. With a remarkable 36-year career at United Technologies Corporation (UTC), Derek built a legacy of leadership across manufacturing, operations, and global program management within the aerospace and defense industry. His work took him around the world, leading projects across the United States, Poland, Japan, and the Czech Republic. Since retiring in 2019, Derek has dedicated his time to mentoring and community service. In recognition of his extraordinary service, he recently received the 2025 Volunteer Impact Award from United Way of Greater New Haven. At Colgate, Derek earned his Bachelor’s degree and began a journey that would take him from Boston to boardrooms and global operations around the world, while never losing his commitment to service and community impact.