Presenting a few of our Graduates and What Inspired Them
Committing to earning a master's degree is a big decision to balance with work and life. Why add that to your plate, and for what purpose? Read on to see what a few of our May 2023 graduates had to say. We are so proud of all our graduates. We celebrate their courage to pursue the challenge, the accomplishment of earning the degree and the many future successes to come.
Thomas Edward Blackwood
Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Lieutenant
U.S. Navy (Naval Reactors)
Your Motivation to Pursue a Degree
I wanted to expand on the fundamentals I learned as an undergrad to be more informed in my engineering design decisions that are critical to ensuring the safe, reliable operation of nuclear submarines and carriers.
Big Takeaway
The courses focused on synthesizing information and systems, which has already been invaluable in my current position. I believe that synthesis of multiple views, interpretations, design considerations, etc., is critical for solving global issues. I look forward to applying what I've learned as I begin work in the clean energy sector. Also, I loved the Engineering Economics course that tackled real-world cost and budget constraints that engineers face at work, and it was also useful for personal finance!
Andrea Charles
Master of Science in Engineering Management
Scrum Lead (Project Management)
General Motors
Your Motivation to Pursue a Degree
With this master's degree, I will have more leadership opportunities at General Motors because the preparation it offers is very thorough and agile.
Big Takeaway
While the experience was intense, I really appreciated the flexibility of my course load from semester to semester. I loved the diversity of courses, from finance to legal and marketing. We covered a lot of topics that a business leader needs to understand.
Leilani Horlander-Cruz
Master of Science in Software Engineering
Software Engineer
Microsoft
Your Motivation to Pursue a Degree
My parents pursued master's degrees, and I wanted to follow their example. A co-worker who was an alum of the program recommended it, so I decided to investigate, and it was a good fit.
Big Takeaway
The degree exposed me to more advanced technologies, such as machine learning, and the in-person format was such a valuable, complete learning experience.
Abel Ramirez-Maldonado
Master of Science in Engineering Management
Electrical Engineering Associate
The University of Texas Utilities and Energy Management
Your Motivation to Pursue a Degree
I plan to apply to middle management positions in the short term, utilizing the knowledge I have gained about managing people and resources.
Big Takeaway
This degree has been a significant boost to my reputation as an engineer. I was particularly impressed with the professors and their extensive knowledge of the course topics and their practical experience, which enhanced my learning experience.
Albert Vuong
Master of Science in Engineering Management
Sales Engineer
MKS Engineering
Your Motivation to Pursue a Degree
I wanted to set a good example among my co-workers, and I sought a program that taught a variety of practical skills, such as finance.
Big Takeaway
My favorite course was Strategic Risk Analysis with Professor Eric Bickel. I loved the in-person experience, interacting with classmates and developing those relationships.
Learn more about TxEEE's master's degrees.
