During his 2024 Engineering Commencement Address at his alma mater, the University of Pennsylvania, John Ternus, the future CEO of Apple, delivered a powerful message to graduating students: “Build what interests you, build what excites you, but above all else, build it in a way that aligns with your beliefs.”
This quote, which has resonated widely, underscores Ternus's philosophy that true professional fulfillment and lasting impact emerge from a deep synthesis of passion and personal integrity. He emphasized that while curiosity and excitement are crucial for sparking innovation, these drives must ultimately be guided by a strong moral compass and core ethical beliefs.
The Meaning Behind Ternus's Words
Ternus's address highlighted that aligning one's daily work and creative endeavors with deeply held values ensures that achievements are not merely satisfying on a personal level, but also responsible, meaningful, and sustainable in the long term. This approach, he argued, leads to products and solutions that truly serve humanity and reflect a greater purpose beyond mere commercial success.
John Ternus: A Leader in Apple's Hardware Innovation
John Ternus is a prominent American technology executive, slated to become the CEO of Apple in 2026, succeeding Tim Cook. He is widely recognized for his extensive leadership within Apple’s hardware engineering division and his pivotal role in developing some of the company’s most iconic products.
Having joined Apple in 2001, Ternus steadily advanced through various senior engineering roles, eventually rising to Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering. In this capacity, he was intimately involved in the conception and development of groundbreaking devices such as the iPhone, iPad, Mac, and AirPods. His expertise has been instrumental in driving Apple’s relentless pursuit of hardware innovation and seamless product integration.
Known for his profound engineering knowledge and a distinctive low-profile leadership style, Ternus has become one of Apple’s most respected executives. As he prepares to take the helm, his commencement message serves as a foundational principle for the next generation of innovators, urging them to build not just with skill, but with unwavering conviction.