Nicholas Howley

Early Life

W. Nicholas Howley earned a B.S. degree in mechanical engineering from Drexel University in 1975 and later received an MBA from Harvard Business School in 1979. He began his career in the aerospace industry, gaining experience that would prove invaluable in his future ventures.

Rise to Success

Howley co-founded TransDigm Group Incorporated in 1993 with Douglas Peacock and the private equity firm Kelso & Company. They acquired four industrial aerospace companies through a leveraged buyout. TransDigm's strategy focused on acquiring niche aerospace manufacturers and consolidating them into highly profitable entities. The company went public on the New York Stock Exchange in 2006. Howley served as Chairman and CEO from 2001 to 2017.

Key Business Strategies

TransDigm's success stems from its aggressive acquisition strategy, purchasing over 90 businesses. The company focuses on components critical to aircraft safety and functionality. TransDigm has maintained high operating margins, often between 40-50%, through cost controls and strategic pricing. The company's revenue in 2025 was $8.83 billion. TransDigm has faced controversy regarding its pricing practices, especially with parts sold to the U.S. military.

Philanthropy

Howley, along with his wife Lorie, is a founder of The Howley Foundation, which focuses on providing scholarships and educational opportunities. The Foundation supports economically disadvantaged students, particularly through Catholic high schools in the Cleveland and Philadelphia areas. In 2024, the foundation announced a $15 million gift to Drexel University to expand the Howley College Scholars Program.