Wilfrid Zoungrana’s Triumphant Journey: From Three Degrees to VP of Finance

A headshot photo of a person wearing a suit.

When Wilfrid Zoungrana embarked on his academic journey at the Texas A&M University-Commerce College of Business in 2010, little did he know he would finish with three degrees, meet his wife at school, start a family and land a job as Vice President of Finance at Aero Components, an aerospace company based in Fort Worth, Texas.

Drawn to the university for its affordability and nationally recognized programs, Zoungrana was later selected as a Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship recipient. He decided to begin his academic journey by earning a Professional Accountancy B.P.A. and M.B.A. with a minor in Accounting. Cherishing his time at A&M-Commerce, Wilfrid cited that the level of engagement by his professors helped him become who he is today.

“The College of Business felt like home with all of my professors there to ensure my academic and professional success,” Zoungrana said. “Dr. Asli Ognuc (Associate Professor of Economics) was one of those professors that encouraged me and challenged me in my pursuit of excellence.”

Upon completing his five-year dual degree in 2013, Wilfrid continued to pursue a Master of Science in Finance degree, graduating the following year.

“While pursuing my previous two degrees focused on Accounting, I had always enjoyed Finance and decided to pursue it as it would be a worthwhile investment in myself,” Zoungrana said.

Today, Zoungrana holds the esteemed position of Vice President of Finance at Aero Components, a company renowned for manufacturing and delivering unique aviation and aerospace components to the Department of Defense and other top-tier aerospace customers.

Reflecting on his time at A&M-Commerce, he expressed his gratitude for the College of Business.

“The College of Business provided me with the essential tools to understand the fundamentals of the business world, specifically in the realms of accounting and finance,” Zoungrana said. “The impact of the exceptional professors and mentors extended beyond the classroom, as they went above and beyond to guide and support me in reaching my goals.”

He also offered valuable advice to aspiring prospective students: “If you have a dream or a goal, please make it known to your faculty. They will help you carve out a clear pathway towards achieving it as they genuinely care about your success and will go the extra mile to ensure you have the resources and guidance you need.”