Walking the TechWalk
Rupa Bhagwat (MEM '23) helped create a unique networking opportunity in Silicon Valley, one where tech enthusiasts learn from one another while boosting their step count.
Rupa Bhagwat (MEM '23) was looking for networking opportunities when she moved to the Bay Area after graduating from Northwestern's Master of Engineering Management (MEM) program.
She was a product manager at technology manufacturer Parker Hannifin, where she focused on Internet of Things (IoT), automation and AI. She wanted to build her San Francisco-based community but didn't want to go to the standard networking events that either had admission fees, awkward business card exchange opportunities, or involved happy hours and alcohol.
Bhagwat heard about a TechWalk initiative started in New York City and became curious.
"TechWalk is a walking meet-up where tech-minded people come together to connect, share ideas, and talk about life beyond the resume," she said. "No stages, no slides, no pressure. Just honest, outdoor conversations with inspiring people."
Bhagwat connected with TechWalk founder Christine Farrier Rosemin, and in March 2024, they launched a TechWalk chapter in Silicon Valley.
Every Wednesday evening, rain or shine, participants meet at the Shoreline in Mountain View, a 750-acre wildlife refuge and recreation area. Each person is matched with a walking partner. There is a partner swap every 15 minutes, meaning that over the course of the hour-long walks, each person will walk and talk with at least four people.
Each walk has a recommended theme, but the actual topics of conversation are up to the participants.
"People exchange ideas, talk about current affairs, or sometimes just the weather," Bhagwat said. "It’s a place where people can be themselves and get that midweek energy."
In March, Bhagwat partnered with Michelle Mittelman, Northwestern Engineering's assistant director for alumni and industry engagement, to host a Northwestern TechWalk. The event featured more than 30 alumni.
Conversations ranged from AI ethics and career pivots to imposter syndrome and burnout.
"Some groups were discussing how to break into product management, others were exploring how to apply machine learning in healthcare," Bhagwat said. "There’s always a beautiful mix of technical depth and personal reflection."
Beyond building her network and increasing her step count, the TechWalks have helped Bhagwat professionally. She currently is Parker Hannifin's lead product manager on the vehicle IoT team, where she leads strategy, growth, and development for connected products in electrified vehicles and automated systems.
"TechWalk constantly reminds me to keep the user at the center," she said. "Hearing real challenges from founders, engineers, and designers during walks helps me bring empathy into product decisions. It’s also helped me grow as a storyteller, learning to listen deeply and communicate with clarity and care."
Bhagwat credits MEM with putting her in position to have important conversations with all types of walking participants — and for preparing her for her professional work. In fact, it was a connection made in MEM that led to her being hired at Parker Hannifin.
"MEM gave me the language to bridge tech and business," she said. "Whether it’s defining product-market fit, leading cross-functional teams, or managing risk, I draw on MEM’s frameworks every day. It also taught me the importance of systems thinking, which is invaluable in vehicle IoT product management."
The product Bhagwat is working on requires a deep knowledge of AI. Talking with AI founders during different TechWalks routinely introduces her to new technologies in the AI space that she can use to make her products better.
She's not the only person benefiting from the walks. One person secured their first product management role after a walk. A startup founder met someone who became their co-founder. The success stories go on.
Since launching the Silicon Valley chapter, Bhagwat and Rosemin launched six additional chapters. The TechWalk newsletter now has close to 8,000 subscribers.
Bhagwat hopes to continue expanding TechWalk to create a global networking community. Along the way, she wants others to discover the same realization she made after her first walk.
"Connection is currency, especially in a world that moves fast and often feels transactional," she said. "TechWalk is a small rebellion against that, a reminder that showing up as yourself, listening with intention, and walking side by side is still one of the most powerful things we can do."
