Mike Bailey '88

Business Development, Qualcomm

Mike Bailey '88

Aztec alum Mike Bailey holds a B.A. degree in Telecommunications & Film from San Diego State University (1988) and an MBA from University of San Diego.   Mike has been called a “corporate entrepreneur” for his work in starting and developing new businesses at Qualcomm. He is primarily focused on business development efforts for Qualcomm in conjunction with new innovation projects. Mike is currently working with Qualcomm’s computer vision technology.  This requires him to work closely with major brands and advertising agencies focused on the implementation of innovative mobile-based products.  He has been married to his wife Natalie for 21 years and has two daughters and a son. One of his daughters will attend SDSU in the fall.

Tell us the highlights of your professional career. What are your proudest achievements?

I was taking a lot of rigorous Math and Science courses until I realized that I enjoyed the creativity in television and media.  I was really excited when I was accepted in the Telecommunications & Film program since at the time it was an impacted major.  After graduating I worked for several companies, both large and startup and including a division of Liberty Media as VP of Programming as well as Motorola as vice president of Business Development.  I ended up as VP of Programming for FLO TV at Qualcomm and helped lead the programming strategy and execution for the Company’s $800M investment in the division. I also headed the creation of the very first mobile broadcast service which included content from major networks and also helped to secure distribution with carriers.   I really enjoy the working for Qualcomm and having the company’s support to take risks with new mobile innovation.

What is your favorite college memory?

SDSU provided all kinds of great memories – much of those related to my membership in the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity.  I actually met my future wife while I was in the fraternity….so yes…that was definitely one of my favorite college memories.  I also remember being heavily involved with Inter-Fraternity Council Sports.  There were a lot of intense activities and events around these events and I remember taking part in a lot of them.

Who was your favorite professor and/or what was your favorite class?

I mostly remember the TV & film production classes.  They were overflowing with creative talent and taught by great instructors.  I remember a production class where I directed a show featuring a local bodybuilder…that was really great!  I really enjoyed acting in one of the films and helping to make “movie magic” happen.  Believe it or not I still have both films.  

If you were to give current SDSU students some advice, what would you say?

When you are going to school really dive into your major and squeeze everything you can out of it.  If possible, try to get into large well known company, even as an intern, to help get your name out into the business world. However, I would also encourage students to start a new business if you have an entrepreneurial spirit and you know what you want to do.  

What are you currently reading?  What’s your favorite book?

I usually read business books or technology articles. I’m currently reading Enchantment: The Art of Changing Hearts, Minds, and Actions by Guy Kawasaki. The author argues that in business and personal interactions, your goal is not merely to get what you want but to bring about a voluntary, enduring, and delightful change in other people. By enlisting their own goals and desires, by being likable and trustworthy, and by framing a cause that others can embrace, you can change hearts, minds, and actions.  A successful company is one that enchants its customers.  

What is your passion?

I am very passionate about technology and innovation.  I love creating products that change the world.  I also am very passionate about my family. Finally, I play a lot of basketball.  Basketball gives me the competitive release and workout that I really enjoy.

What is your motto?

I would have to say that the some of the best advice is from Gandhi “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”  I also believe that any one person with a passion and vision can make a huge impact. 

If you won the lottery, what would you do with your winnings?

I would get new cars for everyone in my family; take a cruise around the world with my family and friends and I would start an endowment for every museum in Balboa Park.  My step-father is a docent at the San Diego Air & Space Museum so I have a close connection with Balboa Park.

Any other thoughts?

SDSU’s top-notch media programs laid the groundwork for my career in mobile and digital media.  You can come out of college with lots of experience in your major as long as you are committed and dedicated.