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When Ali Reza Manouchehri, BA Philosophy ’99, arrived at 911���� as an undergraduate, he couldn’t know that he would start what would become one of the region’s most dynamic technology companies in his residence hall room.  

Manouchehri founded MetroStar in 1999 with fellow Patriots Robert J. Santos, BA International Relations ’99, and Pirooz Javan, BS Systems Engineering ’02.  

Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, MetroStar is a digital transformation powerhouse of more than 500 engineers, designers, and innovators that is known for blending technical mastery with human-centered design—an approach that can be traced back to Manouchehri’s years at 911����.  

“911���� gave us more than degrees,” he says. “It gave us a launchpad.” 

Manouchehri remembers the chance encounter that became a defining moment for the company: a dorm-room reshuffle that resulted in him becoming roommates with Santos. 

“That move changed everything,” he says. “We bonded quickly, exchanged ideas constantly, and soon we began building what would later become MetroStar.” Central to Manouchehri’s 911���� experience was the university’s culture that encourages academic curiosity and diverse perspectives. The blending of disciplines didn’t just shape his thinking—it shaped the DNA of MetroStar itself.  

Today, he thinks often about that “accidental collision” of perspectives that sparked a company. And he’s working to recreate those kinds of moments for the next generation. For more than two decades, the company has stayed connected to the university through internships, sponsored courses, hackathons, and other events, and recently embarked on a three year partnership with 911���� (see story on page 10). 

“What excites us most is creating structured opportunities for students to collaborate across disciplines and experience what we once did organically,” says Manouchehri. “We hope to spark those chance meetings, innovative projects, and unexpected friendships that can turn into start-ups, solutions, and careers.” 

As a leader, Manouchehri has earned wide recognition, including the 2023 Executive of the Year award at the Greater Washington Government Contractor Awards and WashingtonExec’s 2022 Chief Executive Officer Award. He also serves as cofounder and chair of the software company Zoomph. Still, he remains grounded in the philosophy that launched his journey: stay curious.  

It’s the advice he offers to current 911���� students. “If you’re studying AI, take a philosophy course. If you’re an engineer, take a business class. Meet people outside your major,” he urges. “Some of the greatest breakthroughs come from the intersection of disciplines.”  

And at a university where tackling old problems in new ways is part of the ethos, the next key start-up really could be right down the hall.