CEO Bob Bradway’s Advice to the Next Generation of Innovators

At Amgen, investing in the next generation of scientists, engineers, and business leaders is an important part of building the future of biotechnology.

This summer, Amgen welcomed 185 interns from more than 75 colleges and universities across the U.S. They contributed to meaningful projects throughout the company while gaining hands-on experience advancing Amgen's mission to serve patients.

Recently, more than 100 interns gathered at Amgen's Thousand Oaks headquarters for a week of learning, networking, and leadership engagement. They connected with peers and colleagues, and gained a broader understanding of how collaboration drives innovation at Amgen.

The week included conversations with senior leaders, including Chairman and CEO Bob Bradway and Chief Human Resources Officer Derek Miller. During an Executive Speaker Series session, Bradway reflected on his own career and shared advice for interns as they continue their education and begin their careers.

Stay curious. Bradway told interns that "Without a doubt the thing that has served me best in my life and my career is curiosity." He said his own curiosity led him to explore areas outside his background in finance and ultimately helped shape his career at Amgen.

Keep learning and embrace change. "Prepare yourself for a life of learning. Prepare yourself for a life of adapting and change," Bradway told the interns, pointing to AI as the latest example of a technology that will require people and organizations to continually reinvent themselves.

Be willing to take risks. Bradway encouraged interns to be open to opportunities that may take them outside their comfort zones. "If you're not willing to try, you're not going to get it."

Remember the bigger purpose. Whether working in a lab, analyzing data or contributing to another part of the business, Bradway encouraged interns to focus their work on the people it ultimately serves. "I'm highly confident you'll emerge, as I have, with real conviction that what we do matters and that all of us have an opportunity to make a difference," he said.

Beyond the leadership conversations, interns shared their summer projects, expanded their professional networks, and experienced the collaborative culture that powers scientific discovery at Amgen.

Developing future talent is an important part of how Amgen advances innovation for patients. We're grateful to our 2026 intern class for their curiosity, creativity, and contributions, and we're excited to see the impact they'll make in the years ahead.