MAE Graduate: Summer 2014
President, Atkins & Pearce, Inc.
Covington, KY, USA
What were your educational/career goals when you applied to the MAE Program? I have always had a great interest in Economics and I felt it would help me in my current position. I was fortunate to be able to do the MAE and have since found it to be very valuable.
Why did you decide to pursue your MAE degree at the University of Michigan? The program was perfect for me. I was drawn by UM's reputation. I was able to complete it fairly quickly and loved it way more than I would have imagined.
What did you enjoy most about the MAE Program? The other students were awesome. There was unbelievable diversity and talent. There was a highly collaborative culture. The Professors exceeded my expectations. They were not only extreme experts, but highly committed to the quality of instruction.
How has your MAE degree contributed to your work today? I am in manufacturing and responsible for strategy. I have found that the economic models and thought process has been a game changer for the way I think about our business. I received an MBA a number of years ago and would say that the MAE has had a more profound impact in my job (although I am older and perhaps in a better position to apply the knowledge and perspectives).
What advice do you have for MAE graduates looking for a job or internship? Based on the caliber of the people in my class I would say be bold and confident.
