Organizing Chaos

By Siddharth Gorantla

HOUSTON: The cold air was not a problem as the sixth session of YLDP was soon to begin on the last day of February. We waited patiently as our informed tour guide told us a little bit about where we were, the Houston Transtar building where traffic is meticulously observed daily and a large office space held for precautionary measures in the event of disaster. As we made our way to the 2nd floor, we were in awe of the sheer size of the control room below us. Similar to that of NASA, this control room was filled with double-screens as well as large screens of traffic mounted on the wall ahead for everyone to see. This level of technology is important in maintaining the headache-inducing traffic of the 4th largest city in the country.

Next, we made our way to the emergency control room, something this building and city very much needed during Hurricane Ike. Impressed with the adjustable desks and jealous incredibly comfortable chairs, we absorbed the environment as the Honorable Judge Ed Emmett took the podium. He quickly dissipated the misnomer that he is a judge who practices the law; he is not a judge in the conventional sense. Don’t worry, I was surprised as well.

After throwing us off with the fact he’s visited India more times than any of us, Judge Emmett focused his speech on how to be good leader and compatible with those that you work with. This takes high significance in a world that thrives off of connections and efficient work. A task or project cannot be successfully done if everyone isn’t on board with what’s happening. Judge Emmett also emphasized not being caught up in the moment of leadership and hone in on valuing everyone you work with; the role of a leader is to guide a group not dictate one. One key point that I will always carry with me is the necessity to remain composed in times of chaos, and by managing and organizing wild situations, my team can always come out victorious.