Major: Electrical Engineering
Class: 2002
What is your current job title/name of the company?
Global Strategy and Intelligence Leader, General Electric – Industrial Solutions business
Has your MSOE education prepared you for the workforce? If so, how?
Absolutely. MSOE exposed me to technologies and concepts that have allowed me to effectively communicate with both technical and non-technical colleagues (internally and externally) throughout my career. In addition, MSOE taught me to think critically and to solve complex problems, which I use nearly every day.
Do you find that employers have a favorable image of MSOE graduates?
Employers that have worked with MSOE graduates have a very favorable opinion of the alumni. These companies are aware of how well prepared MSOE students are to have an immediate impact on their business as well as the ability to grow and develop into more challenging roles in the future.
What advice do you have for current or prospective MSOE students?
First figure out what you really enjoy doing, then choose a major or career based on that. An engineering undergrad is a great first degree to have no matter what you are interested in, from research to medicine to law to business, but it isn’t easy.
MSOE is a school that will get your hands dirty from day one, and will continue to provide learning opportunities to you while you are there. The key is to choose classes that can stretch your abilities and fill in your foundation; a technical person without any soft skills or business knowledge (or vice versa) is not nearly as valuable to a company as a well-rounded individual. And of course, get any real world experience you can through internships, co-ops, etc.
What are your tips for success?
Choose the most difficult tasks, be confident in your ability to succeed, work hard, learn from other people (especially mentors!), communicate well, and have fun at everything you do.