From TAMIU Soccer Pitch to the Boardroom: How a Former French Athlete Became a Tech-Savvy Father and Leader
In the quiet hum of a high-tech workspace, where algorithms are written and data flows freely, sits a man whose journey to success is anything but conventional. Once a fierce competitor on the collegiate soccer fields, this former athlete has traded cleats for code, and corner kicks for KPIs. Born and raised in France, Tayeb Ahmadi (’17) shares his story, one of grit, love, and an unwavering drive to excel—on and off the field.
Growing up in France, soccer was more than a pastime; it was a way of life. Early mornings were spent perfecting his touch, evenings dedicated to endurance drills, and weekends lost in matches that seemed to determine more than just the outcome of a game. His skill and discipline eventually earned him a scholarship to a U.S. university known as Texas A&M International University (TAMIU), where he played collegiate soccer while pursuing an undergraduate degree in Systems Engineering.
Balancing the demands of Division II athletics with a high academic standard of programs wasn't easy, but it helped shape his identity.
"Soccer taught me how to lead, how to adapt under pressure, and how to be accountable to a team," Ahmadi reflects.
These lessons would later become the cornerstones of his professional success.
His time in college also brought him more than just a diploma and accolades—it introduced him to the love of his life, Christie. They met during his time at TAMIU, and the connection was immediate. Just 10 days after walking across the graduation stage, he walked down the aisle. Now they are parents of one son named Mikail. He considers his role at home his most important one yet.
With a TAMIU degree in Systems Engineering under his belt, he dove headfirst into the world of technology. But he wasn't content to stop learning. He later earned a master's degree in Data Analytics from Penn State, a move that catapulted his career and deepened his understanding of how data can drive meaningful decisions.
Today, he holds a leadership role at a growing tech company, where he combines his engineering mindset with a data-driven approach to solve complex challenges. His background as an athlete continues to shine through in his leadership style, motivational, collaborative, and fiercely strategic.
His journey from a small town in France to a high-level position in American tech reflects a rare blend of athletic discipline, global perspective, and intellectual curiosity. He sees himself not just as a leader in business, but as a mentor for those trying to navigate similarly complex paths.
He is very grateful for the opportunity that TAMIU Coach Claudio Arias gave him. He credits his coach for being the reason he is in America today and is the successful individual he is today.
Tayeb Ahmadi says to any future, current or past athletes...
"Laredo is a special place. I have met many individuals who have graduated and miss Laredo every day. It is a place that you could easily take for granted. The people are so welcoming. As someone who did not know Spanish when I arrived and struggled sometimes with English, I am now fluent in both.
“TAMIU has a lot of resources, and I encourage everyone to take advantage of that. Looking back, I am proud of myself for traveling from such a long distance to the States. Be sure to challenge yourself and experience the world. Travel, connect with people and connect with places. For those of you about to graduate, be sure to take those internships so it is easier to transition once you graduate.
“I would try to work jobs on campus so you can get to know the campus and the community there. For the athletes, focus and do not let the external factors distract you. Your life as a collegiate athlete will be gone before you know it. TAMIU is a special place and a place where people want to help," Ahmadi said.
From a soccer ball at his feet to a laptop in his hands, he continues to chase goals—only now, they look a little different.
Story by TAMIU Sports Information Director Austin Childress
