From Rocket Scientist to Entrepreneur: How Rice’s Online MBA Helped Bhavesh Gadhavi Make the Leap

Bhavesh Gadhavi, a graduate of Rice Business’s Online MBA program, exemplifies the power of combining technical expertise with entrepreneurial ambition. From testing rocket engines at Blue Origin to acquiring his first company, Bhavesh’s journey is a testament to the value of education that empowers real-world action. Through Rice’s renowned MBA program, he gained the knowledge and mentorship that allowed him to transition from rocket science to business ownership, and he’s now coaching fellow entrepreneurs in Al Danto’s courses. His story shows how Rice Business equips students with the tools to turn dreams into reality — whether in the sky or in the marketplace. 

Get To Know His Motivations for Pursuing Our Online MBA and Its Impact: 

What was my original motivation for joining the program? 

I’ve always had an entrepreneurial passion and believed I had the skillset to be one. But the biggest question was ‘HOW do I become an entrepreneur?’ That was my driving motivation for joining the program. By the end of it, I found my answer — and Rice made it possible. The program gave me the pathway I was searching for, and looking back, it was one of the best decisions I’ve made. 

Why an online program? 

Flexibility was key. At the time, I was based in West Texas (Van Horn), testing rocket engines at Blue Origin. An online program was the only realistic way for me to pursue an MBA. But for me, it wasn’t about the format — it was about access to knowledge and mentorship. My goal was to solve the “How do I become an entrepreneur?” puzzle. Whether online or on campus, I knew Rice had the answer. 

How did Rice become my program of choice? 

Rice is #1 in entrepreneurship, and I’m from Houston — so that made my decision easy. With my goal of becoming an entrepreneur, Rice was the obvious choice. Looking back, I couldn’t have picked a better school to help me make the leap from engineering to business ownership. 

What am I bringing to my new business from the MBA program? 

Honestly, I use everything I learned at Rice on a daily basis — financial modeling, negotiation strategies, marketing, operational frameworks, leadership development, process standardization, cost optimization — you name it. More than anything, the MBA helped sharpen my decision-making skills. It changed how I approach challenges and create solutions, and that impact is felt in every part of running All-Rite Sheet Metal.