Student Spotlight

Student Spotlights

Bryan Ignatow

Industry Field: Information Technology
Employer: Raytheon
Job Title: Infrastructure Architect

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?
A: Computer Science.

What is your past work experience?
A: I've had a diverse work history from a staff member at Texas A&M University, to federal research programs, telecommunications, consulting, pre-sales engineering, and cloud & data center infrastructure architecture. I've worked for customers in just about every industry from financial services, manufacturing, federal government, hospitality, and healthcare to my current role at a defense and aerospace company. I consider my diversity and over 30 years of experience from entry level employee to director as an asset I bring to any project I am involved with.

What are your career aspirations?
A: I've held roles from an individual contributor to a leader, and lead large and small teams, both domestic and international. In my current role, I am working down the strategy and architecture tract at Raytheon with my sights set on achieving a Certified Architect role and then becoming a Technical Fellow. For me this is a new kind of leadership, and I look forward to the challenges growing into this role will bring me.

Why did you choose the Master of Engineering Technical Management program?
A: I was seeking a Master’s program to elevate my skills and launch me into my next career path. I considered an MBA but that style of program was not as good a fit given my extensive engineering background, and I also considered a law degree since I have a love for words & language, both their meaning and nuances. As a graduate of the Texas A&M Class of 1990, I always kept an eye out for graduate programs at the University that I could complete remotely while working. When I came across the Master of Engineering in Technical Management, I knew this was the right program for me. It addressed my engineering background and allowed me to stretch my leadership and business acumen at the same time. It was the perfect balance, and I have been very successful in both my personal growth and expanding my knowledge, taking advantage of everything the program has to offer.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?
A: It’s easier to ask what I haven't learned. We are a very diverse and active cohort and take great pride in supporting each other. The mix of personality types, background, and experiences means I learn something new with everyone I work with or when talking to one of my fellow classmates. We have become one large family and it’s not a competition— we are all here to see everyone succeed.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?
A: I had many notable experiences in my life. From traveling the world in my career to working on a drilling ship in the middle of the Atlantic for 56 straight days. I take great pride in my family and in raising 3 amazing children. Each thing I accomplish is a step towards the next greater thing. Right now, my greatest life accomplishment is excelling at my Master of Engineering degree and pushing myself harder than I ever have. And it doesn't hurt to show your adult children that if you apply yourself, you can do anything. I look forward to walking across the stage in 6 months and continuing to use everything I've learned to achieve my career goals before I retire in about 15 years.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.
A: I'm an avid woodworker and enjoy home improvement projects as a way to relax. I use woodworking as a way to demonstrate that what you do is not a hobby... not a job... and it’s even more than a career. It’s a craft to be perfected. It doesn't mean you are perfect at everything you do. I have discarded many failed attempts, but time, patience, and practice are the way to make yourself better. That, and with hard work and a YouTube video, you can learn to build or repair anything.

Mandi Routon

Industry Field: Medical Device
Employer: Boston Scientific
Job Title: Process Development Engineer

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?
A: Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering.

What is your past work experience?
A: I graduated from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology in 2020 as a double major in biomedical and mechanical engineering. I took one year to work as a process development and R&D co-op for Boston Scientific at the Spencer, Indiana and Marlborough, Massachusetts sites. I joined Boston Scientific full time as a manufacturing engineer in Maple Grove, Minnesota, moved to R&D in Arden Hills, Minnesota, and now work as a process development engineer back in Maple Grove, Minnesota. Throughout my time at Boston Scientific, I have worked in Urology, Endoscopy, and Interventional Cardiology.

What are your career aspirations?
A: I aspire to lead people whether that be as a people leader or technical leader. In either role, I want to inspire and impact others positively through empowerment.

Why did you choose the Master of Engineering Technical Management program?
A: I chose METM because although I did not go to Texas A&M for my undergraduate degree, I grew up attending Aggie football games with my dad, who graduated in the class of '85. Other than being an Aggie at heart, looking at the curriculum for the program, I was intrigued by the balance of emotional intelligence and business courses. I felt this program would allow me to become a more well-rounded leader and engineer.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?
A: I have learned so much from everyone in this cohort. From the different technical backgrounds to the different life experiences, I try to absorb as much information as possible. I have learned about different communication preferences and how people are best supported as we each push through the semester and our day-to-day tasks.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?
A: My greatest life accomplishment thus far is having the opportunity to live in different states and countries to see God's beauty in both people and nature.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.
A: I completed a 45-mile mountain bike race in Duluth, Minnesota without training. I only ate it once and only suffered for 9 hours.

Maile Guieb

Industry Field: HVAC
Employer: McMillan James Equipment Company
Job Title: Sales Executive

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?
A: B.S. in Mechanical Engineering.

What is your past work experience?
A: I have worked as a sales representative in the HVAC industry for 6.5 years. The first 3 years were in Anchorage, Alaska until I moved to Austin, Texas in 2020.

What are your career aspirations?
A: I am passionately committed to empowering and inspiring future female engineers in the HVAC industry. Breaking through glass ceilings is a personal mission of mine, as I firmly believe that these barriers are meant to be shattered. My overarching goal is to pave the way for aspiring women in the field, showcasing that they can not only excel but also thrive in traditionally male-dominated industries like HVAC. Additionally, I am dedicated to fostering an environment where their mental well-being and self-confidence are nurtured, ensuring that they can navigate challenges and succeed with resilience.

Why did you choose the Master of Engineering Technical Management program?
A: I chose the METM program because of its strong focus on emotional intelligence in management. Having experienced both good and bad managers in my career, I aspire to be an exceptional leader for future engineers. This two-year program has provided me with invaluable insights and practical skills that far exceed what I would have learned in over a decade of on-the-job experience. I'm driven by the belief that effective management involves not just technical expertise but also understanding and nurturing the emotional needs of a team. The METM program has been transformative, equipping me with the tools to foster emotional intelligence, effective communication, and empathetic leadership. In just two years, I've made significant progress that would have taken much longer to achieve in the field alone. I'm confident that these skills will enable me to excel as a manager and create a work environment where both technical excellence and emotional well-being thrive, benefiting our future engineers and the entire team.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?
A: I've come to recognize that we all come from diverse backgrounds and varying levels of experience, but our shared goal is individual improvement. I've found inspiration in my classmates, each of whom possesses unique qualities I admire and hope to adopt. It's a testament to the richness of our collective learning journey.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?
A: My most significant life accomplishment was embarking on a solo journey from Alaska to Texas, completing the trip in just six days. This adventure represented more than a change of scenery; it symbolized my commitment to a fresh start in a warmer climate and prioritizing my mental well-being above all else.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.
A: I believe my life's purpose is to be a source of light in the darkness of others.

Jeff Phillips

Industry Field: Oil & Gas
Employer: DOF Subsea
Job Title: Project Engineer

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?
A: B.S. in Ocean Engineering.

What is your past work experience?
A: Most of my career has been in offshore oil and gas installation work. It has allowed me to see different parts of the world that I wouldn't have otherwise. I did a 2 and half year rotation in Angola for a previous company. The high-level summary of my responsibilities has been to design the offshore operations for client required IRM/Mooring work as well as travel offshore to oversee the technical side of the projects.

What are your career aspirations?
A: I don't really have specific end goals or a title that I want in my career. I would say my 5 year aspirations would be to be working in renewables in some capacity.

Why did you choose the Master of Engineering Technical Management program?
A: Prior to learning about the program, I had been looking into MBA programs as a way to make a change and for continued education. I wanted to get into more of a management role and when I went to an informational session with Dr. Zoghi, this seemed like exactly the type of program that I was looking to be a part of. The basis of the program aligns very closely to my opinion of how a successful manager gets the best out of their people. The classes on decision making and financial analysis are a bonus to that material.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?
A: Quite a few of the other students are already in leadership positions and it has been really great to be able to get lessons from them on how they manage their direct reports. They've been able to share details of what to expect at higher levels of an organization.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?
A: I would say at this point it has been the number of places around the world that I have been lucky enough to visit. I still have a long list of destinations to see, but I've been able to check a few bucket list places off.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.
A: I had a stroke when I turned 30. Apparently my body wanted to get a head start on what that would be like before I was at retirement age.

Josh Willard

Industry Field: Government
Employer: Los Alamos National Laboratory
Job Title: Nuclear Facilities Engineer

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?
A: B.S. in Mechanical Engineering.

What is your past work experience?
A: Most of my career has been in Commercial and Industrial construction. I've worked on a variety of projects from museums to power plants. I have an engineering degree, but my career path led me more towards Project Management and away from more technically oriented engineering roles. My enrollment in the METM program coincided with a pivot into an engineering role at LANL, which is something I've wanted to do for a while now.

What are your career aspirations?
A: I would like to move into a managerial role in the next few years and the METM program will accelerate that process.

Why did you choose the Master of Engineering Technical Management program?
A: The METM program appealed to me because of its flexibility. With four kids, my family calendar is full. Most weeks, I am able to tend to my family and work demands during the week and tackle my coursework on Saturday and/or Sunday. When we have had travel or other activities planned, I have been able to complete the work on weeknights. In the busiest weeks, I can still catch up on lectures and readings on my phone or laptop while traveling and complete any writing once the kids are all in bed.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?
A: I have really enjoyed getting to know everyone in our cohort, as we spent time together during the residency week, and continued to work together on assignments during the semester. It was clear from the beginning that this self-selected group was full of men and women with drive and ambition. Learning their stories and building my professional network has been fuel for my own career growth as much as any of the content I'm learning in our classes.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?
A: My life's great work has been—and continues to be—raising four wonderful children, who are currently 6, 9, 11, and 12. For most of their lives, I accepted limited career options to raise our kids close to other relatives. Two years ago, we decided to relocate our family and I decided personally to re-invest in my career. Professionally, my greatest accomplishment has been more than doubling my salary in the last two years, and joining an organization with incredible lateral and upward mobility. Joining the METM program has been part of that process. I know this degree will give me skills which will help me further leverage my career growth.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.
A: I have an identical twin brother.

Austin Gary

Industry Field: Commercial Construction
Employer: Linbeck Group, LLC
Job Title: Project Manager

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?
A: BBA with a concentration in Management.

What is your past work experience?
A: I started my career in construction managing structural concrete construction projects in downtown Houston. I’ve been a part of projects ranging from 2-story parking garages to 42-story high rise apartments.

What are your career aspirations?
A: I hope to continue in the construction industry with aspirations to manage a region or branch off and start my own company.

Why did you choose the Master of Engineering Technical Management program?
A: I saw the METM program as a unique opportunity to diversify my skillset and strengthen the foundation built through industry experience. The program places emphasis on emotional intelligence as a key trait in effectively leading others. In addition to the focus on emotional intelligence, the technical courses are taught by industry leaders with real time experience managing cross functional teams in various industries. From Financial Decision Making and Value Chain Management to Contract and Risk Management, the program content touches it all. The knowledge and skills I am learning can be applied immediately in my professional and personal life. It has been a fantastic experience and I am pleased with my decision to join the Aggie family in pursuit of a Masters of Engineering Technical Management.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?
A: I have enjoyed learning of similar workplace struggles and learning the various ways to overcome them in other industries. At the end of the day, all industries have common ground - people. How we manage people within our industries is what will set us apart.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?
A: I’ve got a lot of life left to live and I will continue to learn and grow throughout the many phases of life. To date I am most proud of my career in construction. I had no experience and was struggling to find a firm that would give me a chance. With a BBA, I signed on to perform general labor on a high rise in Houston, within 3 years I had excelled into a management role managing $40m in projects and years ahead of many peers with more experience.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.
A: I lived in Southeast Asia as a child, traveling to various countries with my family. I believe those unique experiences helped mold me into the empathetic leader I am today.

Ava M Holley

Industry Field: Government
Employer: Los Alamos National Laboratory
Job Title: Project Manager

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?
A: Business Management.

What is your past work experience?
A: I have been a project manager in very diverse environments, ranging from Bio Medical - pre drug development, to Healthcare/Care Management, to Department of Energy Government. Because of the very diverse environments, I have had to become familiar with regulations and guidelines across each industry, ranging from National Institute of Health (NIH), to Center for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS), to Department of Energy (DOE). This has taught me to be readily available and eager to change and adapt to a fast-paced environment.

What are your career aspirations?
A: I enjoy working in a fast-paced environment and adapting to change. I hope to continue in my knowledge growth and development in becoming the "change".

Why did you choose the Master of Engineering Technical Management program?
A: I came across the METM program through work. I had obtained my MBA in 2010 and was interested in the approach of the METM program. I felt that though the foundation was similar, the approach was very different. Different in that during my MBA program I had no EQ consideration or transformational leadership guidance. I was very excited to learn and adapt to new leadership techniques and have the ability to apply them in a technical environment.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?
A: Everyone is great! We are all full-time employees, parents, coaches, leaders, etc. and continue to provide support for one another without the feeling of impediment. There are always at least 20 hands out whenever help is needed.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?
A: Setting an example for my daughter! I was 19 when I became pregnant with her. As a single mother, I made it a point to get an education, work hard and show her that it can BE DONE! She is now approaching 19 and her second year of college. Having her tell me that she looks up to me and I motivate her brought tears to my eyes and pure joy! I will continue to work hard and show her that you can achieve anything you put your mind to no matter the challenges you are facing.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.
A: I have to plan everything! I believe it’s because I have always juggled so many responsibilities. Beginning at a young age, I had to ensure all was planned and scheduled so that nothing was missed.

Stephen Craft

Industry Field: Aerospace/Defense
Employer: Los Alamos National Laboratory
Job Title: Systems Engineer

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?
A: Computer science from Metropolitan State University of Denver. I also have a master's degree in science writing from MIT.

What is your past work experience?
A: I spent about 10 years twiddling my thumbs in IT before realizing that I hated it, went back to school, worked briefly as a freelance science writer, then fell completely by accident into systems engineering. Since then I've worked in ecology, commercial aerospace, and now government aerospace and national defense. My work at LANL affords me opportunities to sit in the same rooms as some astoundingly smart people who work on planetary science, heliophysics, nuclear treaty monitoring, and a bunch of other stuff that's just waaaaay over my head.

What are your career aspirations?
A: Do cool stuff. Honestly, that's it — do cool stuff. Find projects that I find entertaining and intellectually stimulating, in which I get to work with passionate and intelligent people.

Why did you choose the Master of Engineering Technical Management program?
A: The syllabus sounded like the sweet spot in the Venn diagram of engineering and soft skills. The fact that I could do it while working, and have my employer pay for it, sure didn't hurt.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?
A: As in all things in life, there are people just skating by and there are people who are invested, interested, and passionate. For me, the trick in life is finding the second kind of people and learning from them. My cohort is chock full of 'em, so I consider myself a lucky person to be in their midst.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?
A: My marriage. My wife is the most intelligent, kind, generous, and compassionate person I've known. Her one weakness is terrible taste in men, which I work shamelessly to my advantage.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.
A: There are more than six times as many people in my METM cohort as there were in my high school graduating class.

Gunther Schulze

Industry Field: IT Consulting
Employer: IBM Corporation
Job Title: Account Technical Leader

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?
A: Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry

What is your past work experience?
A: When I originally graduated from Texas A&M University in 1991, I pursued employment as an analytical chemist. I worked at a chemical plant located on the Houston Ship Channel until 2000. My experience as an analytical chemist taught me how important attention to detail is. Many of my analyses and calculations could affect the plant's production and safety. When I left the chemical industry, I entered the information technology field, having had significant experience at the plant, deploying automation in the laboratory. I spent much time learning hardware and software over the next two years and eventually arrived at Hewlett-Packard Co. I spent approximately the next 16 years working with oil and gas companies aligning HP's technology with their business goals. Additionally, I achieved my first management position during this time. As HP changed over time, I left and entered the open-source area joining Red Hat. After two years, I joined IBM, focused on the utility industry.

What are your career aspirations?
A: I endeavor to enter people management again. Having extensive experience and knowledge in various industries and information technology, I hope to help the younger generations succeed and achieve their goals. Being a mentor and a mentee has helped me in my career over the decades. I hope to use what I have learned through the METM program to affect positive change in the people I work with.

Why did you choose the Master of Engineering Technical Management program?
A: I had been seeking an academic affirmation of my capabilities for many years. I had never found a program such as the Texas A&M METM program. Being a Texas A&M Former Student, I was looking at what was being offered and came upon this new program in the College of Engineering. I was sold after attending an informational session and speaking with Dr. Zoghi. I have been grateful ever since.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?
A: The most important thing I have learned from other students in my METM cohort is how younger generations think and work. I had been puzzled for many years as my generation is much different. Through my interactions and the teamwork that I have done, I now have an appreciation and understanding that I could never have achieved elsewhere. I now pay much closer attention to the emotional and physical aspects of human interactions in the workplace. I have learned quite a bit thanks to my cohort and the partnering required in the METM program.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?
A: My greatest life accomplishment has been my role as a father and husband. I have led a very structured life that my German immigrant parents taught me. The hard work in pursuing a college degree as the first in my family enabled me to develop a work ethic that has served me well in life. Imparting these same tenets to my children and seeing their success is gratifying.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.
A: I am very well-traveled, having done so extensively for my employment. My wife and I intend to do more on a personal level as our children move on with their lives. Exploration of the African continent is at the top of my list.

Garrett Scott LaPaglia

Industry Field: Information Technology
Employer: Texas A&M University
Job Title: Director of Information Technology

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?
A: Applied Technology and Performance improvement

What is your past work experience?
A: I have 15 years of experience in IT and leadership at Texas A&M. I worked my way up from entry-level end-user support to executive leadership in the second-largest college on campus. It has been a high honor and pleasure to serve the university and its citizens.

What are your career aspirations?
A: I am passionate about service, team building and helping people actualize their potential personally and professionally. As such, I aspire to a role in which I can make the largest impact in those areas.

Why did you choose the Master of Engineering Technical Management program?
A: I have loved Texas A&M my entire life, but not until I found METM did I discover a program so perfectly geared towards creating and enhancing superb leaders in engineering and technology. I saw great value in their flexibility for working professionals and in the goals of their curriculum.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?
A: It has been edifying to get to know and work with such a range of communication styles, personalities and skills. I have so appreciated the support and understanding from my classmates. Navigating the program is so much more comfortable when everyone is behind you.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?
A: I am head-over-heels in love with my wife of 18 years. My life with her and our 11-year-old twins is my greatest accomplishment.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.
A: When I am not at work or studying for the program, I teach Bible classes at our church and serve as a pastoral care minister.

Daniel Roger Pearson

Industry Field: Defense
Employer: Raytheon Technologies
Job Title: Raytheon Intelligence & Space (RIS) Configuration Management/Data Management (CM/DM) Colorado/Nebraska (CO/NE) Region Department Manager

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?
A: Bachelor's of Science in Political Science from Texas A&M - WHOOP Class of 2002

What is your past work experience?
A: NDIA Certified CMDM Manager and Raytheon Six Sigma Specialist with extensive experience in evaluating and writing change proposals, waivers, and deviations for accuracy, completeness, and compliance against baselined requirements. Subject Matter Expert in the field of CM, a systems engineering process for establishing and maintaining consistency of a product's performance, functional, and physical attributes with its requirements, design, and operational information throughout its life.

What are your career aspirations?
A: I want to pursue a Ph.D. in Systems Engineering with an emphasis in CM. I enjoy working for Raytheon Technologies, which allows me to practice and implement the CM discipline.

Why did you choose the Master of Engineering Technical Management program?
A: I chose METM because an Aggie education is invaluable. Furthering my education and picking a Master's program through Texas A&M engineering is a no-brainer. I wanted a program that would fit me and help me grow in the areas of what I like to call "people management." As someone with a Bachelor's Liberal Arts degree, I wanted to expand my knowledge base and continue to grow professionally and personally. The METM program is an excellent fit for my Master's program goals.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?
A: I have learned that everyone, I mean everyone has a life story. As the saying goes, never judge a book by its cover. Some of my classmates overcame some severe obstacles to succeed.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?
A: I would say my greatest life accomplishment is being in a field where I have seen firsthand Space Shuttle launches. Today I help the world by upgrading the Global Positioning System (GPS). GPS is something billions around the globe use every single day!

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.
A: I own several classic vehicles.

Kimber Pizzini

Industry Field: Aeronautics
Employer: Lockheed Martin
Job Title: Systems Engineer, Staff

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?
A: Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

What is your past work experience?
A: I served honorably in the United States Navy for 5 years (2008-2013). Upon receiving an Honorable Discharge from the Navy, I attended Airframe and Powerplant school while working full-time at a local FBO as a manager of operations. Upon completion of A&P school, I accepted a position with Lockheed Martin Aeronautics as a Structural Mechanic, building the cockpit of the F-35 Lightning II. I then moved up the ranks as a Final Assembly Supervisor where I led a team of mechanics, avionics techs as well as coaters. From there, I transitioned to a Project Management and Planning Operations Representative Senior. In this position, I worked as a constraint manager in Final Assembly supporting the F-35. Upon completion of my bachelor's degree, I moved into a position within Systems Engineering, where I am the Systems Engineering Lead for IUID on the F-35 program.

What are your career aspirations?
A: My career aspirations include continued support of the United States Military in the civilian sector. I intend on moving up the ranks within Lockheed Martin becoming a well-rounded leader and supporting the warfighter.

Why did you choose the Master of Engineering Technical Management program?
A: I chose METM because once talking with the staff, I could see that this program was going to be an invaluable learning experience, versus just a degree. I saw this as an excellent opportunity to not only grow academically but personally as well through an in-depth look at my emotional intelligence. Something I feel is severely lacking within the corporate sector.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?
A: In our cohort, I have seen tremendous amounts of growth, professionally as well as personally. We truly care about each other and want to see each other succeed and I am glad to know each and every one of them.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?
A: My greatest accomplishment in life has been my two children, Boston (3) and Kennedy (1). They give me a sense of purpose and I am honored to be their mom!

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.
A: One unique thing about me is that I have climbed a 14,000ft mountain (Mt. Antero in Buena Vista, Co.)

Steven Martinez

Industry Field: Data Center Operations
Employer: Meta
Job Title: Critical Facility Engineer

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?
A: Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering Technology.

What is your past work experience?
A: I spent about nine years serving in the United States Navy, where I operated and maintained nuclear propulsion plants on board their submarines. My final assignment was managing a division of people responsible for planning, coordinating and executing maintenance activities during scheduled outages. After I left the Navy, I began my career in Data Centers as a Critical Facility Engineer for Facebook in Prineville, Oregon. I spent two and a half years there before transferring to the Facebook site in Fort Worth, Texas.

What are your career aspirations?
A: I want to gain knowledge and skills that will position me to be able to maximize the number of people who I can positively impact and make happy.

Why did you choose the Master of Engineering Technical Management program?
A: I chose METM because the curriculum allows for growth both as a professional and as a person, and I could complete the program while keeping a full-time job. The emotional intelligence aspect of the program is unique, and I was and still am excited to be a part of the Aggie community.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?
A: They have taught me the power and support that accompanies being an Aggie.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?
A: Marrying the love of my life and having two amazing children with her.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.
A: I practice several different martial arts and am working towards advanced rankings in each of them. 

Marc Reid

Industry Field: Oil & Gas
Employer: TechnipFMC
Job Title: Inventory & Asset Supervisor

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?
A: Supply chain and logistics technology.

What is your past work experience?
A: I have a hybrid work experience with field and project base knowledge. Working and planning multi-million dollar projects in the tech industry and innovation in saving man-hours and costs.

What are your career aspirations?
A: The goal is to transition into offshore installation engineering or move into a higher leadership role.

Why did you choose the Master of Engineering Technical Management program?
A: I chose METM because it would help diversify my professional career because of working with engineers and applying that to my everyday work life.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?
A: I have learned to be adaptable and empathize with different situations to help maximize my group's potential.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?
A: Becoming an Aggie.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.
A: I have a love and passion for commercial aviation and traveling. 

Angel Alejandro Gonzalez

Industry Field: Telecommunications and Outsourcing Solutions
Employer: Group O, Inc.
Job Title: Industrial Engineer

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?
A: Industrial engineering.

What is your past work experience?
A: My professional experiences revolve around aerospace manufacturing, oil & gas hydraulic fracturing environments, and supply chain optimization systems.

What are your career aspirations?
A: My self-actualization mindset and being a first-generation college graduate continuously promote my endeavors. I continuously seek to build myself professionally and assist my community members where I can help to multiply success.

Why did you choose the Master of Engineering Technical Management program?
A: Networking and building trust are among my top priorities to impact and promote future leadership. As a life-long learner, the METM provides continual learning and interaction with other industry members and diverse minds.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?
A: Transformational Leadership is practiced differently in all fields. As long as we are respectful, empathic, and open to evolving, we can build mutual trust within our network.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?
A: Thriving through the uncertainty as a former DACA recipient and immigrant from Central Mexico and reaching a spot in a top-rated US graduate program.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.
A: I have two loving huskies, twenty-six tropical fish, and a poodle as unofficial dependents.

Ryan Keyser

Industry Field: Facility Design Engineering
Employer: Los Alamos National Laboratory
Job Title: Design Engineering Team Lead / Design Manager

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Mechanical engineering.

What is your past work experience?

A: I always knew I wanted to make a difference in people's lives. After getting my undergraduate degree, I pursued a master of divinity degree in starting churches and even served as an associate pastor for a few years. I eventually returned to engineering, desiring to serve where my technical talents could be put to work. Since working at Los Alamos National Laboratory in the facilities design engineering division, I have rapidly progressed through the ranks.

What are your career aspirations?

A: I love teaching and making a difference in the lives of individuals. I love that management weds these two passions into a meaningful career! I have often thought that after a robust career in management, I may retire early to become a university professor.

Why did you choose the Master of Engineering Technical Management program?

A: I love that Texas A&M's METM program not only is designed to fill the gaps I had as a manager but that it also has a strong focus on EQ development. 

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: I have been thoroughly impressed by how diverse our cohort is! We have people from many walks of life, representing a diverse array of professions and industries. I love how friendly and helpful our cohort is. It doesn’t matter if you are having difficulty with homework or life, someone will help you out. 

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: My greatest life accomplishment is my family.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: I have a passion for fixing and building things. While in school I worked as a mechanic to gain hands on experience in a trade knowing it would make me a better engineer. After five year of coming home to my family smelling like gasoline, I now refuse to work on cars.

Jacquelyn Lopez-Barlow

Industry Field: Quality Engineering and Manufacturing
Employer: Los Alamos National Laboratory
Job Title: Deputy Division Leader

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Chemical engineering.

What is your past work experience?

A: I am the Deputy Division Leader for the Production Agency Quality organization and have worked at Los Alamos National Laboratory for 19 years. I began my career with LANL as a student while getting a B.S. degree in Chemical Engineering at the University of New Mexico. After attaining my degree, I began working as a process engineer in actinide aqueous separation, oxide processing, and pyrochemical operations. In 2011, I became an engineering manager for 238Pu Operations supporting development, production, and surveillance activities. In 2015, I was appointed a program manager for the Power Systems Programs and Weapons Production Agency. By 2021, I transitioned to help lead the production quality assurance organization and am continuing to lead special projects for LANL. Throughout my career, I have supported Defense, NASA, and Non-Proliferation programs at LANL. 

What are your career aspirations?

A: Looking back ten years ago, I have accomplished more than I thought I would have. My career aspiration has always been to be a leader, solve problems and do the best I can. 

Why did you choose the Master of Engineering Technical Management program?

A: I considered other programs for years and finally chose the METM program because it had all the right elements that I wanted to learn and a structure that met my needs. The other thing that sold me on the program was how much all the Texas A&M alumni I worked with loved the university and how excited they were for me.   

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: I have learned to listen more and communicate better because everyone brings a different style. We are from different industries and there are some in similar industries, but the conversations we have are great. 

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: My greatest accomplishment so far is having my family and amazing life. I also had the privilege to work on Perseverance Mars Rover, and getting updates about what we're finding is so cool. 

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: I love art, architecture and history. I could spend all day in a museum or walking around taking pictures of buildings. There is so much beauty that comes through and there are stories being told. I want to learn about the people who made the artworks, who built the buildings, and the events that happened. 

Jeremy Smith

Industry Field: Oil & Gas
Employer: OneSubsea
Job Title: Design for Supply Chain Specialist

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Aerospace engineering.

What is your past work experience?

A: I started my work in aerospace testing components for NASA on small-scall test satellites, one of which launched a successful mission from Space Shuttle Endeavor on STS-127 as a part of a more extensive program to further autonomous rendezvous and docking technologies. This work led to new opportunities in oil and gas at FMC Technologies to work on subsea connection systems. At FMC, I held the role of Global Product Responsible Engineer (specifically for connection systems). I continued my work at a smaller company before I moved to OneSubsea, a subsidiary of Schlumberger, where I spent two years as a lead project engineer. I then moved into my new role as a design for supply chain specialist working on product delivery strategy, which I fully attribute to the METM program.  

What are your career aspirations?

A: I want to use my knowledge and ability to work with people to help inspire engineers and steer my company to use more robust and updated methods as one of its leading managers. 

Why did you choose the Master of Engineering Technical Management program?

A: I chose METM because it captured exactly the gap in the skillset that I was seeking. I was a technical engineer by background but had been told on several occasions throughout my work that I was missing certain aspects of managerial experience and financial acumen. The METM program focused on both people and the business aspects all while tailoring the learning to technical individuals.  

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: There are a number of others who are striving to gain the same knowledge that I am and seeing that spark and enthusiasm was inspiring. Each student that I have met has helped me view the world in a different way and consider perspectives that I had not thought of previously. Learning from everyone has brought us all closer and allowed us to not just be colleagues, but friends. 

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: My family is my greatest accomplishment. I am the proudest father of three kids, two boys now six and four, and a girl. My daughter was actually born while I was in the METM program and just turned one. 

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: I am a certified Krav Maga Self Defense instructor.

Jeremy Meehleib

Industry Field: Oil & Gas
Employer: Beusa Energy, LLC
Job Title: Senior Technical Writer

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering.

What is your past work experience?

A: I have over 20 years of experience in the oil and gas service industry. My background includes product/engineering management and operational positions serving the Rockies, West and South Texas, and the Gulf of Mexico. Specialties include pressure pumping services and offshore completion tools. 

What are your career aspirations?

A: My goals are to contribute and inspire teams, and businesses, to become more efficient, meet customer needs, and apply engineering principles to achieve business objectives in dynamic and changing markets.

Why did you choose the Master of Engineering Technical Management program?

A: During the time of Covid-19, I chose to return to school to enhance my business acumen and ensure I was familiar with the latest in managerial theories and applications. The METM program at Texas A&M University was a superb fit for these objectives. The program leverages industry experts to provide modern approaches to the challenges of technical analysis and decision-making. It then pairs this knowledge with the skills needed to manage highly technical teams. In the end, the METM program at Texas A&M provided a foundation to level up my management approach to business and establish my own personal vision. 

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: My colleagues in the METM program come with broad and dynamic backgrounds that I contend I would not have been able to assemble on my own. It has been eye-opening and inspiring, to work with each of my colleagues in the program as we learn new ways of seeing business and addressing challenges in this modern era of change.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: My greatest life accomplishment is maintaining a positive outlook and never being hesitant to try new experiences. I have overcome many personal challenges, and it is often the unexpected moments during a journey that are the most memorable. Remaining positive, and open to serendipity, allows for those moments to happen more often. Getting a master’s degree at the age of 52 during a pandemic is a case in point.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: I am a bit of a creative. I have dabbled in a host of expressive mediums from oil pastels to photography, to origami, piano, and cooking.

Sarah Murdock

Industry Field: Government
Employer: Los Alamos National Laboratory
Job Title: Process Manager

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering.

What is your past work experience?

A: Process Engineer for a design agency, Commissioning Agent, Sustainability intern. 

What are your career aspirations?

A: I aim to get into management at LANL to help improve and develop our programs. There is so much potential there and I want to be a part of the growth. I can see the potential and it excites me to be a part of making it grow.

Why did you choose the Master of Engineering Technical Management program?

A: I researched many technical management programs at many schools. The Texas A&M program was the only one that placed an emphasis on emotional intelligence and what 'soft' qualities a good leader needs. There were many courses that covered data and facts a manager needs, but this program put an equal focus on leadership qualities. The residency weeks were also unique in that Texas A&M provided that in-person immersive opportunity to delve deeper into the lessons.  

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: I have learned so much from my cohorts! This has been an amazing group of professionals from all types of industries and at all levels of management. Everyone has been open about their experiences and we've all learned from each other. The best part is that we are all like-minded in our aspirations and it has been a great experience to grow together.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: I am a single mother. I had my daughter when I was 23 and I had not completed my education. Through the help of family and loved ones, I have earned a BS in Mechanical Engineering while working full-time, and now I am completing the coursework for a Master of Engineering Technical Management. My daughter is in college now and I am so proud of the woman she has become and the example of hard work I have given. I have shown her that nothing is impossible if you truly want it.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: When I was younger I worked for World Balloon in Albuquerque, NM. I was a hot air balloon crew member for a season.

Daniel Claude Day

Industry Field: Data center infrastructure
Employer: STACK Infrastructure
Job Title: Assistant critical operations manager

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science in nuclear engineering technology.

What is your past work experience?

A: I spent 12 years as a nuclear electrician on submarines in the U.S. Navy. Upon leaving the Navy, I went to work in Data Center Operations as an Operations Technician with another data center provider. Joining STACK in 2020, I'm now leading the establishment of a new Critical Operations team at STACK's newest 11MW data center in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.  

What are your career aspirations?

A: I intend to continue advancing my career in the Data Center industry, steadily broadening my view, scope and responsibility. One day I hope to be working at a portfolio level, being able to positively impact teams across a variety of locations.  

Why did you choose the Master of Engineering Technical Management program?

A: I was looking for a master's degree program that allowed me to continue full-time employment while also providing relevant skills and a credential that could positively impact my career. When I found METM, I discovered that the program met all three of those criteria. Additionally, the reputation of Texas A&M as a school with a vested interest in supporting alumni through the Aggie Network made my decision to apply to the program very easy. 

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: I have gained a significant amount of secondary leadership experience from other students in the cohort. There are so many students with such varied backgrounds that it creates a rich pool of experiences from which to draw. Hearing about the other students' jobs, careers, struggles and successes always leave me with something valuable to take with me on my own journey.  

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: The completion of this program will be the personal accomplishment I value most. I've always been a proponent of higher education, and completing an advanced degree program is something I wasn't sure until recently was in the cards for me. I can't wait to hang the diploma on my wall and recognize the work and the experiences that led up to it.  

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: For about a year before joining the Navy, while I was in junior college, I worked as an apprentice blacksmith at a historical re-enactment village in Texas. I learned some of the blacksmithing trade as it was practiced in the 1880s with a coal-fired forge and 19th-century hand tools. From horseshoes to fencing nails to utensils, the Master Smith and I made all the necessary parts and performed all the repairs for the village, just as would have been done at the time we were representing.  

Richard Pearson

Industry Field: Commercial aviation
Employer: Pratt & Whitney (Raytheon)
Job Title: GTF fleet engineer - Europe

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Mechanical engineering.

What is your past work experience?

A: I have been lucky to have a variety of experiences throughout my career. I began my career at American Airlines evaluating and reverse engineering aircraft parts as fleetwide replacement options. I transitioned to power plant engineering where I have spent the majority of the career since. I have had roles as a shop engineer supporting repair, build and testing of aircraft engines. I have been responsible for ensuring on-wing support and reliability of engines and  their components ensuring maximum safety and operation time.  My technical engineering background made me a great candidate to move into a regulatory role where I oversaw implementation of airworthiness directives and helped lead investigations into compliance escapes and helped develop correcting process actions to ensure safe and reliable operation. I have since transitioned to a new employer utilizing my experiences gained to manage engines as they transition through their shop visits ensuring proper maintenance implementation during visits.  

What are your career aspirations?

A: I am open to future opportunities as they find me. I hope to take the next step and become a true leader of people and maybe even teach one day.  

Why did you choose the Master of Engineering Technical Management program?

A: I knew I wanted to go back to school, but the standard MBA or engineering programs never quite interested me. I never found myself having a hard time learning the technical parts of my career, but I always found the people portion of my career the hardest to navigate. I was hooked the instant I heard of the METM program and how the focus was on the people within a technical environment.  

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: The insights and experiences of my cohort has provided a very different perspective that I have never seen or heard before. The diverse background and expertise of all my classmates provided an opportunity for new ideas on problem-solving and how to address various management issues. Through my interactions and lessons, I have learned that even though we all come from a variety of backgrounds, there is often common ground to be found much easier than I would generally believe.  

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: My greatest accomplishment so far is being the first person in my immediate family to graduate from college, hopefully setting an example for others that they can do it as well.  

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: I celebrated New Year 2020 twice, once in Aukland, New Zealand, and then 30,000 feet above the Atlantic! 

William Osburn

Industry Field: Flight simulation
Employer: Delaware Resource Group
Job Title: Quality assurance/configuration manager

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science in business administration.

What is your past work experience?

A: I joined the Air Force in 1984 as an Avionics Navigation Systems Specialist and stayed in for four years. Over the years I have had a few jobs in different industries. I have been an industrial maintenance mechanic, RF technician, laser scanner technician, telecom technician, cable technician and flight simulator technician. I was promoted less than one year ago to my current position and still work in the flight simulation industry. 

What are your career aspirations?

A: I am 56. In my late 40's I finally decided to strive for more than being a technician. I know I have more to offer. I am not exactly sure where I will end up or if I will continue to move up in my current company, but I know I can be a leader in some capacity. 

Why did you choose the Master of Engineering Technical Management program?

A: I chose METM because I needed a program that was available online and I could continue to work and pursue my degree. Ultimately when I had doubts if I belonged in this program, I was assured that I was exactly the kind of candidate they were looking for. 

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: I have made some lifelong friends in this program. I learn daily from each of them. Many are very accomplished in their line of work and they assure me that I belong right alongside them. My confidence has grown because of them. 

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: Raising three extraordinary, in their own way, grandkids. I feel they will all be successful in life and that makes me happy. 

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: On April 2, 1999 I married my wife and she had two girls. On April 4, 1999, the oldest girl had her first son. So I became a husband, dad and pop-pop in two days at the age of 33. 

Travis Metz

Industry Field: Energy
Employer: Relevant Power Solutions
Job Title: Assistant Director of Production

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science in spatial science.

What is your past work experience?

A: I have been working in the greater maritime industry for roughly 12 years, 7 combined years on ultra-deepwater drillships in the Gulf of Mexico, 3 years in the commercial fishing industry in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska (Kodiak Island and the Bering Sea), and just over 2 years on ATB units on the U.S. west coast and Hawaii.

What are your career aspirations?

A: My career goals have shifted since making a major career change a few months prior to graduation. I have been fortunate enough to have an opportunity where I can draw on my previous years of experience and merge that with what has been learned in the METM program. As such, the new set of early goals is to understand and improve the production processes while driving a positive influence on the overall business model.

Why did you choose the Master of Engineering Technical Management program?

A: As a long shot, I applied for METM after seeing it advertised on a billboard in Houston. The biggest takeaway for me has been the merging of a hard, technical skillset with professional business acumen that is not often found in my industry. By learning the business side of engineering, a solid bridge could be built to help with a career transition.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: Anything you can imagine. All the different backgrounds, life experiences, and knowledge bases produce unique, insightful viewpoints. It's great to see different perspectives being weighed against each other to create a deeper understanding of the topic in question.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: My wife saying yes!

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: My bachelor's degree unfortunately did not pan out into meaningful employment after my first trip through Texas A&M, but I was able to build and advance my career with my own two hands and with a little help from the Aggie Network.

Brandi Greenberg

Industry Field: Radio Frequency Engineering
Employer: Huntington Ingalls Industries
Job Title: Program manager

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Computer science and mathematics.

What is your past work experience?

A: I started my career writing code for the International Space Station, then missile software, then software-defined radios for the military and now program management over Radio Frequency Engineering projects for the Department of Defense.

What are your career aspirations?

A: I want to make a positive impact on the world and lead people to help them grow into what they want to be. I want to be able to work at a company that values my contributions and sees my input as a benefit.

Why did you choose the Master of Engineering Technical Management program?

A: I felt like this program helps me in my career aspirations, provides leadership, understanding and promotes the same values I wanted for myself.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: I have learned a lot from others; their experiences shined a light in places of the world I did not know about. Learning about new careers and job fields has broadened my horizons.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: My family!

Matthew E. Hudson

Industry Field: Oil and Gas
Employer: Schlumberger
Job Title: Desktop engineering lead

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science in engineering technology with a specialty in electronics.

What is your past work experience?

A: I began my work experience in the field of information technology (IT) when I was in eighth grade as I helped my father with his engineering and consulting company. I learned to build/fix computers, code in multiple languages, and design databases. This was in the late 1980s when having one computer in the house invoked excitement. This knowledge helped pay for my college education. Before graduating from Texas A&M University, I began my career working for the university in the area of IT. I spent 13 years in Higher Education IT within Texas A&M, Prairie View A&M University, and the Texas A&M University System Offices before moving to the private sector with Schlumberger for the last 12 years.

What are your career aspirations?

A: I look for a career where I am continually learning as well as helping to solve problems. A career where you can give back is important to me. If I feel I am no longer contributing or learning, then I begin to shift my focus to other opportunities. I would like to continue to rise as a manager but I don’t wish to lose sight of seeing my employees learn, develop and convey their technical skills.

Why did you choose the Master of Engineering Technical Management program?

A: Actually, it chose me! I was returning from presenting an IT conference when Dr. Zoghi sat diagonally behind me on the last leg of my flight back to College Station, TX. I didn’t think he would remember me - after all, it had been around 20 years since I was last in his class. I was wrong! We chatted and he informed me about a new master’s program he was starting. I told him that I already held a master’s degree. His response, “You don’t have this one!”, caught me off guard and gave me a reason to pause and re-examine myself. It was about 18 months later, after looking into the program, my career path, and determining the knowledge I would gain that I decided to apply to the program. This program pushes growth in both knowledge and experience, making it a well-rounded degree for anyone that intends to manage technical employees.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: Age is not a delineation of friendships. Thirty or fifty years old, we all have experiences that have helped us come together. We laugh together and we are there to help each other in class. For some, it has been five years since they were last in school, while for others it might have been twenty years. We are all part of the Aggie family. Our diverse backgrounds and cultures create an ever-growing family with expanded experiences, networking, and friendships. I have loved expanding my friendships with this class!

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: I enjoy learning and also giving back to the IT community. Microsoft recognized me in 2009 as a Most Valued Professional in the area of Enterprise Mobility for my knowledge and community efforts in the area of Systems Management. This is not a certification or exam to receive this honor; it must be freely given by Microsoft and rewarded each year based on stringent guidelines. When I was first awarded, I was 1 of 19 in the world within my area, now I am 1 of 60. Among all the technical areas, there are only 4,000 experts worldwide. This is my 13th year holding the honor. It has opened more doors for presenting at conferences and working with IT communities around the globe. I even had an IT admin at a 30,000 attendee conference chase me down because he recognized my name badge. Crazy experience!

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: I own and drive a 1929 Model A Town Sedan. I performed a frame-off restoration on the vehicle to bring it back to life. There is not a single bolt or piece of wood on the car that I have not touched. I did have help from the Lilleker’s in town with the engine restoration. I love driving the car, even though sometimes it is a bit stressful in traffic. At a cruising speed of 45MPH, I am not going to win any races but it takes me back to a time when driving was an exciting experience, not simply a necessity to move from place to place. Yes, it has broken down many times!

Joe Williams

Industry Field: Financial
Employer: DD214 Mortgage
Job Title: Chief operating officer

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science in professional aeronautics.

What is your past work experience?

A: U.S. Navy, Lockheed Martin, DD214 Mortgage.

What are your career aspirations?

A: Help others become leaders in their industries!

Why did you choose the Master of Engineering Technical Management program?

A: A chance to meet other like-minded individuals in various industries.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: How hard they struggle to promote within their companies.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: Being able to defy physics on a consistent basis and be alive to enjoy the thrill of doing it.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: I’m constantly seeking good people to hire who have a passion to have financial freedom.

Kacie Fischer

Industry Field: Utility
Employer: Oncor Electric Delivery
Job Title: Senior transmission grid controller

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science in nuclear engineering technology.

What is your past work experience?

A: I spent nearly 10 years in the U.S. Navy as a Nuclear Field Electronics Technician. My primary role was in the safe operation of the nuclear power plant, including maintenance of complex I&C systems and training junior operators. My post-Navy career has been spent at Oncor Electric Delivery as a NERC certified Transmission Grid Operator. My duties and responsibilities include monitoring the grid and associated equipment to ensure the safe and reliable delivery of electricity to consumers.

What are your career aspirations?

A: I aspire to take on meaningful leadership roles within the company to make a positive impact on business objectives and the lives of my team members.

Why did you choose METM?

A: Texas A&M has a large network of Aggies over a range of disciplines to network within. This program allows me to meet other professionals both within and outside of the utility industry. The program itself looked to be a good fit for my background and professional goals.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: The METM program has given me the opportunity to collaborate with Aggies all over the world with the common goal of improving our fundamental business knowledge and driving leadership skills to improve each other professionally. My cohort has given me insight into different levels of business spanning many different industries. They truly have given me the knowledge and skills necessary to drive towards my leadership goals.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: My greatest life accomplishment is my beautiful family at home that supports me through all my goals.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: I was selected as Reactor Operator to conduct the final shutdown of the MARF Prototype Training Unit in New York. Since the beginning of operations in 1955, the MARF Prototype unit served as the first reactor plant training platform for nuclear officers and enlisted sailors and has trained over 50,000 sailors over its lifetime.

Ronnie Hurst

Industry Field: Fluid Motion Control
Employer: Flowserve
Job Title: Solutions engineering manager

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science in manufacturing and mechanical engineering technology.

What is your past work experience?

A: Upon graduation from Texas A&M University, I moved to Houston to work for Flowserve as an Applications Engineer in their Deer Park, TX facility. I directly supported major customer accounts within Flowserve's Reliability and Maintenance services programs, holding various positions before becoming the Engineering Manager for the Gulf Coast region. Currently, I serve as a solution engineering manager for North America and also have SME responsibility for Flowserve's programs within all Marathon facilities in North America. Additionally, as Flowserve and other companies have leaned into ESG and energy transition initiatives, I have worked with a team to build Flowserve's Energy Advantage offerings in North America.

What are your career aspirations?

A: I strive to continue to develop into the best leader I can be such that I am better suited to serve others. My ongoing journey to become an effective transformational leader is rooted in creating environments that enable both employees and companies to accomplish their goals.

Why did you choose METM?

A: I looked at a number of other options for continuing education. METM provided the best value and the curriculum aligned to my development needs and goals. 

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: My cohort is full of amazing people that have so many admirable qualities. Their experience has infused the coursework with valuable and practical lessons. There is no doubt that working with them has made me a better professional and a better person.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: My son. My personal and professional growth primarily serves to provide him with the tools and resources to have a great life. While he is just a toddler now, my hope is that I can guide him to be a highly emotionally intelligent adult who will positively impact those around him. It's my biggest focus over the next 2+ decades and will be my life's greatest work.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: While pursuing my undergrad at Texas A&M University, I played for the competitive paintball team. We were the first team to compete in national-level events which culminated in a No. 2 national finish my senior year in 2009. It was a lot of fun and a lot of work, but my teammates from those squads became my lifelong and closest friends.

Daniel Talamantez

Industry Field: Electric Utility
Employer: Oncor Electric Delivery
Job Title: Regulatory manager

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering.

What is your past work experience?

A: I grew up as a blue-collar electrician performing residential, commercial and sign work while going to school at Texas A&M University. I began my post-school career at Oncor Electric Delivery. I started as an engineer and moved up through the ranks in Oncor's Network Design group in the five years I was there. I then moved over to Customer Operations for two years and was assigned to an area as the face of our company. Currently, I am a part of Oncor's Regulatory External Affairs group as a Regulatory Manager handling the legal requirements of our business.

What are your career aspirations?

A: My aspirations include always enjoying the work I do no matter the job. I also want to give back to the younger employees, especially those with a similar background.

Why did you choose METM?

A: I chose METM to better myself and ensure that I remain competitive in my respective field. I went to Texas A&M for my undergrad and I cherish this school. I expect that this master's program will help me stand out as I move forward in my career. I definitely wanted to do something different than a regular MBA, so this new hybrid program seemed like a no-brainer for me. 

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: I have learned a ton from my peers, both as students and professionals. They have helped expand my network and have become more than just colleagues to me.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: My greatest accomplishment is my family.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: I will be the first in my family to obtain a higher degree.

Krystal Yvette Roberts

Industry Field: Petrochemical/energy optimization
Employer: Kelly Scientific for ExxonMobil
Job Title: Olefins Feedstock, Yields, Optimization and Energy (FYOE) Research Technologist

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science in psychology/biology.

What is your past work experience?

A: I have worked as a Kelly Scientific contractor with ExxonMobil since 2014. I began as a lab technician in the Baytown Refinery Lab where I conducted routine chemical and physical analyses in a QA/QC lab where I utilized various ASTM test methods. I then worked as a Synthetics Applications Development/Customer Development Chemist Generalist at the Baytown Technology and Engineering Complex which included the execution and operation of bench scale systems and using Basestocks from Group I, II, III, Group IV (PAO) and Group V (Esters, AN) to create and test Base, Gear, ATF and Engine Oil formulations. I am still at BTEC, but I now work as an Olefins Research Technologist where my research measurements allow steam cracker yields to be predicted using various models and regressions available to Olefins Technology so that the company can ensure the selection of a safe, economical feed.

What are your career aspirations?

A: To find a role where I can merge my chemical/research background with technical leadership. I would then like to take the knowledge I've gained in this program to improve team functionality within the company.

Why did you choose METM?

A: Texas A&M University has the best networking system I've ever seen. I always knew that if I were to pursue additional educational opportunities, it would be here. The METM program seemed to fit in perfectly with my current work environment and I know that the skills I’m learning here could be easily transferred to most career paths.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: This program has afforded me the pleasure of meeting some wonderfully diverse, supportive individuals from various industries and walks of life. Our weekly collaborations have given me insight on the importance of putting forth the effort to better get to know and understand how my teammates receive and interpret information. I’ve also seen first-hand how a broad range of views and ideas can come together to create a highly effective, functional team. My classmates have helped push me towards leadership excellence.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: Becoming the mother and role model to the sweetest, most amazing little boy, who also happens to be my greatest motivation.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: I'm super crafty - I've made wooden yard art for over 20 years.

Kristie Moore

Industry Field: Transportation
Employer: Lea+Elliott, Inc.
Job Title: Project Engineer

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science in civil engineering from Texas A&M University.

What is your past work experience?

A: Railroading! I have been in the transportation industry for 10 years. I've worked in freight rail (track and project management), passenger rail (engineering and testing), transit planning (engineering) and currently working on a mega capital project (engineering and project management). I spent the first 5 years of my career railroading in the U.S. across 28 states and the past 5 years in management and engineering. The transportation industry connects everyone from all walks of life and has been a fascinating environment for me to find strength and focus.

What are your career aspirations?

A: It's simple: As a personal goal, I hope to always be challenged. Looking outward, I hope to be a role model and a resource in the transportation industry.

Why did you choose METM?

A: Living in the Northern California Bay area, I was looking for a master's degree that is technical and offered flexibility to support working in a full-time job. The METM program is the perfect combination of the highlights of a business master's degree and the scientific principles that power engineering. Engineers are innovators and problem-solvers who create solutions to benefit the world. Texas A&M is a great school and offered exactly what I had in mind.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: Wherever I go, there is always somebody smarter than me; when you're given the same assignment, there are 20 ways to solve it, involving various methodologies, schedules and efforts. We come from various backgrounds and experiences and our collaborative time has bounded us as small teams. Everyone in the program represents the piece of the world that they are fighting to make a positive difference, day by day. When you have motivation and competence, nothing will stop you.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: When I was in my late twenties, I moved to one of the most expensive places to live in the U.S. without a job to find adventure. I wanted to find some time to reset and figure out what I really wanted to do in my career. It definitely was a risky move, but it gave me time to travel to three countries, publish a book and create my own brand. Most of all, I had the opportunity to discover what motivates me and doing a job that maximizes my skillset while creates the necessary infrastructure for future generations. Taking risks to find meaningful rewards that make me happy is my greatest life accomplishment to date. I hope to continue to push myself to accomplish more in my lifetime.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: I love spending time outdoors and exploring. On the weekends, I like to go on hikes or go on my stand up paddleboard. I have been to 40 states and 21 countries so far and would like to make all 50 states and visit more than 50 countries before I turn 50.

Mayra Gamiddo

Industry Field: Aerospace/defense
Employer: Lockheed Martin Aeronautics
Job Title: Electronics engineer

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science in business administration.

What is your past work experience?

A: My work experience is very diverse, from Aircraft Armament Systems to Cyberspace Operations. I had the honor to serve in the United States Airforce Reserves and the Texas Air National Guard for eight years. During this time, I worked in aircraft maintenance, weapons and Cyber-Systems Operations. I worked as a network administrator for the DoD and as an IT Service Delivery Analyst and Service Delivery Manager for a software consulting company in the civilian sector. Currently, I work for Lockheed Martin AERO under Engineering & Technology, supporting different programs.

What are your career aspirations?

A: To keep growing in the never-ending field of technology and help my company stay on top of our field by effectively leading teams and accomplishing our mission objectives. I also aspire to inspire minorities to pursue careers in STEM.

Why did you choose METM?

A: I was drawn to the METM program because of its flexibility, technology focus and industry professors.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: My teammates are amazing! We all come from all sorts of industries and backgrounds. They are eager to learn, share experiences and genuinely care for the wellbeing of each other.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: Having a toddler running around the house and an amazing family that supports all my endeavors.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: I moved to the U.S. at age 15 without speaking a word of English. I'm convinced that hard work, dedication and discipline will lead you to live the "American Dream" and change your family's legacy.

John Anderson

Industry Field: Semiconductor
Employer: Applied Materials Inc.
Job Title: Application engineer III senior

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Business management

What is your past work experience?

A: - 12 years Navy Electrician (Desert Storm War Veteran)
- 21.5 years with Applied Materials Inc.
- 12 years with Texas Instruments Inc Account team as Field Service Engineer, Technical Lead Engineer and Operations Manager
- Contract Performance Manager - North America Sites
- Product Technical Support - World Wide Operations
- Application Engineer - Digital Tool Team Developer and Deployment Support three years Oil and Gas with Vinson Process Controls
- Outage Coordinator - project management of plant valve maintenance and replacement projects for Electrical Plant Outages and Refinery Turnovers

What are your career aspirations?

A: To continue to acquire the knowledge and experience necessary to sustain myself as a marketable competitor within the semiconductor arena (engineering, manufacturing). When an opportunity presents itself, advance my position into leadership roles with higher and greater levels of responsibilities.

Why did you choose METM?

A: The METM program was the perfect storm for me. The program is through a well-respected university in the semiconductor industry and it stems from the College of Engineering. With my years of experience in the industry, this degree keeps me competitive with the younger colleagues who are coming straight from college with Master's- and Doctorate-level degrees. I looked for years and determined that a MBA was not going to help me like the METM program would.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: I have learned that although we come from various backgrounds and occupations, we have similar experiences. By sharing with each other we have been able to grow individually and collectively as a class. We are probably stronger as a class through this program than if we were sitting weekly together on campus.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: My two girls. One of our main goals in life was to raise girls that were self sufficient, productive and able to make it on their own. Our oldest daughter (Aggie Class of 2017, METM ‘22) who now works for Lockheed Martin as an engineer is already there. Our youngest is a senior in high school, sixth in her class of over 450 students. She will attend Texas A&M University in the fall of 2021 in pursuit of an engineering degree.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: Just completed my 18th year serving on Red Oak ISD School Board. Re-elected this spring (three year term), and am starting my 19th year as current Board President.

Ramón Ocañas III

Industry Field: Chemical
Employer: Entegris
Job Title: New product development engineer

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering.

What is your past work experience?

A: My past experience includes rapid manufacturing for non-woven materials, semiconductor manufacturing, lithium battery design and manufacturing and chemical manufacturing.

What are your career aspirations?

A: After completing my degree at Texas A&M University, I hope to use this to grow into a senior management role with a focus on team development and process control. I also will plan to earn my PE in the years to come.

Why did you choose METM?

A: I chose this program because for one, it was Texas A&M, which has a rich history and a great network. Along with that, the program offered very unique classes such as emotional intelligence, project management and technical team management.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: I have learned that everyone has a very unique background and that in the end, we are all here to better ourselves. It is a great feeling to know that everyone in the program is very open and willing to support everyone.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: My greatest life accomplishment was completing my bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering. This accomplishment has given me so many opportunities, everything from participating in the NASA Zero Gravity experiment challenge to traveling the world. I did not attend university right after high school but as I got older, my priorities changed and I dedicated my life to achieving that goal. I hope to be an inspiration to others, and that my accomplishments become a motivation for someone to pursue their dreams. Everything is possible but it does take dedication and perseverance.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: I have always had an appreciation for our oceans, and it has led me to be very active in that space, from scuba diving, to lifeguarding and coastal and ocean conservation.

Christopher Wilkerson

Industry Field: Military/aircraft maintenance
Employer: U.S. Air Force
Job Title: F-35 functional manager

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science in aeronautics.

What is your past work experience?

A: I have been active duty military since 2006. However, I've held multiple positions and worked three different airframes: F-35, F-22 and F-16. My primary job is Avionic/Electrical and Environmental Systems, but I'm currently the Air Education and Training Command F-35 Functional Manager in the 19th Air Force stationed out of Joint Base San Antonio - Randolph.

What are your career aspirations?

A: Once my time is done in the Air Force, I intend on putting my experience and education to work for the Aerospace Industry. Currently, I'm looking at working in sustainment, training or development.

Why did you choose METM?

A: I chose METM for the uniqueness of the program. Also, this program is more suited to what I want to do when I eventually get out of the military. I see the METM program as something that will help me stand out among my peers, and will give me the skills to succeed in the civilian sector.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: The most important thing I've learned from my peers is that networking is key. Getting to know everyone and hearing about their experiences has helped me have a better understanding of what to expect when I get out of the military.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: I honestly can't pin down one single accomplishment in my life that I would consider my greatest. To me, everything I've done has been a great accomplishment. Currently, my next greatest accomplishment will be completing the METM degree at Texas A&M University.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: I am the first in my immediate family to complete college and move on to their master's.

Sarah Norton

Industry Field: Information Technology for Department of Defense
Employer: Perspecta
Job Title: Senior IT Service Delivery Representative

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science in hospitality management.

What is your past work experience?

A: Assistant Graphic Designer, United States Air Force Cyber Transport Technician and Cyber Security Liaison, Regulatory Specialist, IT Specialist, IT Service Delivery Representative, Senior IT Service Delivery Representative.

What are your career aspirations?

A: I currently have the opportunity to train and lead members of an IT infrastructure, hardware and software delivery team. I would like to gain the knowledge and experience necessary to be an IT service delivery expert and advance as a leader.

Why did you choose METM?

A: METM is filled with transferrable knowledge and skills that can be immediately used in the workplace. I chose this program because information technology and engineering often overlap in my work. Additionally, the cohort style of the program coupled with portions of the instruction taking place on campus have allowed me to participate in team building activities and take part in Aggie traditions.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: My cohort has encouraged me to welcome the process of staying up late, getting up early and pushing yourself. It takes all of these things to successfully reach a challenging goal.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: My husband and I being intentional about modeling love, faith and hard work for our kids.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: I was fortunate enough to be a part of the restoration the USS Battleship Wisconsin, one of the largest battleships built by the U.S. Navy. The Wisconsin was launched in 1943 and served in the Pacific Theater of World War II, the Korean War and Operation Desert Storm. It is now berthed at Nauticus, National Maritime Center in Norfolk, VA. The restoration allowed museum visitors the opportunity to experience interior tours of many areas of the battleship.

Carlos A. Perez

Industry Field: Oil and gas
Employer: Shell Exploration and Production
Job Title: Training and competency lead

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor's degree in organizational leadership with a minor in economics.

What is your past work experience?

A: I am a retired combat veteran (U.S. Navy Seabees) with over 14 years of experience in integrated satellite and terrestrial communications. I transitioned to the oil and gas industry 10 years ago as a controls and automation technologist. I am currently employed by Shell Royal Dutch and assigned to Upstreams Deepwater in the Gulf of Mexico. My responsibilities range from managing and maintaining SIL three and process control systems for offshore producing assets. My passion is around safety-critical and complex systems designed to protect our people, the environment and our communities.

What are your career aspirations?

A: As a professional employed by Royal Dutch Shell, the opportunities are endless; my ultimate goal is to be given the opportunity to become an Operations Manager for Upstream Deepwater.

Why did you choose METM?

A: METM is a very unique program that focuses on emotional intelligence. It is not a program based solely on theory; rather, on leadership skills based on real business needs applicable to today's macro-environment. I believe the METM program has all the elements needed to manage a complex operation and technical teams in the oil and gas industry.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: The learnings from other students in the cohort are endless. We have such a diverse group from all over the world. We have students and industry professors working in the middle-east, Asia and all over our country, which gives me a different perspective. The team-based environment helps me develop natural leadership skills on a global scale.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: As an immigrant to this great country, I have been given the honor to serve and defend its freedom on the battlefield. I am who I am because of the opportunities given to me regardless of my origin.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: I want to teach in underserved communities to help transfer my knowledge.

Manuel "Manny" Sanchez

Industry Field: Aerospace aeronautics
Employer: U.S. Navy, Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit
Job Title: Executive officer

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science in technical management.

What is your past work experience?

A: I have over thirty years of naval aviation experience spanning from Desert Storm to Operation Enduring Freedom and am still active today. Highlight assignments include F-14 Tomcat Research, Test, Development and Evaluation (RDT&E), F/A-18 Hornet Operational Deployed Squadrons onboard aircraft carriers and MH-60 Seahawk Fleet Replacement Squadron (Training Squadron). No better job than leading Sailors and Marines in support of America's freedom.

What are your career aspirations?

A: To increase my knowledge and obtain necessary skills in preparation for my post military career. My goal is to join a corporate team and immediately apply my experience and skills to the organization's mission philosophy and statement.

Why did you choose METM?

A: As an Active Duty Military Naval Officer, I was in search of a professional graduate degree that would afford me the flexibility to meet my demanding work schedule. METM was the right choice and the program also provided me the flexibility to enjoy my family and hobbies while improving my professional skills.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: We can have fun, laughs and awesome social times while still learning and producing quality academic assignments.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: Raising a family of good morals and character who strive to make a positive difference in the world.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: I had the honor of representing the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps as the Maintenance Officer for the Navy's Flight Demonstration Squadron Blue Angels for the 2008 and 2009 show seasons.

Branden Ramsey

Industry Field: Aerospace
Employer: Axiom Space
Job Title: Scrum master

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science in computer engineering.

What is your past work experience?

A: My work experience includes engineering projects deployed miles above the earth (for the ISS) to miles below it (in a down-hole drilling environment) and everything in between. I have had the privilege of working with NASA and Boeing as a subcontractor designing an accelerometer-based measurement system for the solar panel trusses of the ISS. I have also had the privilege to lead an amazing team responsible for designing down-hole navigation systems using gyroscopes. These devices were used by Halliburton and Schlumberger to measure the earth's rotation to pinpoint drill bit locations while drilling for oil. My current endeavor involves product management, serving as Scrum Master for Axiom Space, where I will contribute to the design, development, launch, activation and operation of the world's first commercial space station.

What are your career aspirations?

A: I believe that great engineering comes from allowing brilliant engineers the space and environment to succeed. That this environment must be created and maintained by leaders willing to let people closest to the problem be the chief problem solvers. As such, my aspirations involve reaching a level of influence to facilitate such an environment.

Why did you choose METM?

A: I was drawn to METM over an MBA because of the technical focus over the general business knowledge of an MBA. I found the curriculum in METM to be better suited and much more useful for technical fields.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: I absolutely love my fellow classmates. The first week on campus was an amazing experience getting to know such an outstanding group of professionals. I have learned so much working with them. I have learned new leadership skills, gained different perspectives and sharpened many other skills as we learn together.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: My wife and children are easily my greatest accomplishment. As far as my greatest professional accomplishment, I would say walking on the ISS (it was on the ground at the time but I thought it was cool nonetheless).

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: I am the first person in my family to ever obtain an undergraduate degree.

Ryan Tsamouris

Industry Field: Petrochemical/information technology
Employer: Chevron Phillips Chemical Company
Job Title: Computing solutions engineer

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Arts in biology from Texas A&M University.

What is your past work experience?

A: I have worked in information technology for about 13 years. Right out of college, I started work for a small company providing EHRs. I worked as an IT Project Manager, Implementation Specialist, Software Trainer, Server Administrator and did some work as a Sales Engineer. I eventually rose to IT Manager, where I was then picked up by Chevron Phillips to work in Remote Access (VDI, Extranet, VPN). Today, my specialty is in IT Mobility and Integration, working on modernizing and connecting workers to the info they need in the field. I occasionally speak at IT Conferences to talk about our work, and try to stay involved in the IT industry where I can.

What are your career aspirations?

A: Working IT in the Oil & Gas sector has provided me more opportunities than most, and I have been fortunate enough to have great mentors and managers to help guide me in my career. However, there has always been a drive for me to climb the ladder, and my goal is to work my way into an executive IT role. This was my reason for joining the METM program, and I can say with confidence that after I have completed the program I will be well-positioned to capitalize on the next opportunity.

Why did you choose METM?

A: Prior to learning about METM, I had clicked around the internet looking for a master's program that would both fit my life and enhance my career. Two seconds after reading the METM brochure, I knew I had found the program. As someone who puts in long hours at work and at home, I needed something that only online learning could provide, which is flexibility. I also enjoy a challenge, and if you are wanting a master's program that will take you to the next level of your career, then you have found it with METM.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: I have never been part of a group filled with so many intelligent and thoughtful individuals. The METM program is incredibly diverse, and learning about my classmates' personal and professional lives has opened my eyes to opportunities I had not seen before. Working together feels more like working with professional colleagues rather than other students. One day you may be building a project plan with a chemical engineer from across the ocean. The next day you are negotiating a contract with an aeronautical engineer. The experience is both humbling and challenging, being guided by an incredibly organized staff of professors. The curriculum is equally as diverse, where you will go from learning emotional intelligence and decision making to finance and legal theory. It truly is a great experience.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: Growing up on the dirt roads of East Texas, I left the small town of Latexo with an old pickup truck and a few hundred dollars to my name. I landed at Texas A&M, where I probably squandered more time than studied. Working through high school and college, I paid my own way through school and landed into the workforce unsure of where I was going. It took me longer than most to find myself, but eventually I became career driven and more importantly, a family man. My greatest accomplishment is finding my purpose as a husband and father, working to provide for them and setting a foundation for their success. Even when you come from humble beginnings, you can find your place in the world with perseverance and dedication.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: I am an elected official, sitting on the Board of Directors for a Municipal District with several thousand residents, and I am President of our HOA (for better or worse). There are many challenges to be found in local government, and I believe those who wish to see change in the world must start with themselves and their community. Become involved, work with your neighbors, show empathy and understanding, and work to better the lives of the people around you. There is no greater joy than helping others, and by being part of your local community you will learn both process and new skills that will help enrich both your personal and professional lives.

Noel Lee

Industry Field: Oil and gas
Employer: Shell
Job Title: Senior structural engineer 

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science in civil engineering.

What is your past work experience?

A: 10 years worked for Fluor engineering firm and 12 years for Shell oil as a structural engineer. Worked across different oil operation stages including upstream, midstream and downstream. I began my Shell career when I joined the Shell Global Solutions in 2007 as a TA2 civil/structural engineer, where I was accountable for quality assurance on major projects and technical support for downstream assets. I have held a number of positions as TA and lead structural engineer roles in Deer Park Refinery, Puget Sound Refinery, Unconventional, Deep Water and most recently serving as the senior civil asset support engineer. 

What are your career aspirations?

A: Improve communication and leadership skills that can achieve professional success and to effectively attain organizational objectives.

Why did you choose METM?

A: Because it provides academic courses that are relevant and closely connected to my working environment. The curriculum is balanced with practical and theoretical approaches that can help me adopt new mindsets and perspectives to efficiently solve real world issues.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: Optimization starts from embracing a variety of viewpoints which usually leads to surprising outcomes.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: Being a mother of two beautiful girls.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: I can train a dog to learn tricks in five minutes.

Tyler James

Industry Field: Aerospace/defense
Employer: Lockheed Martin Aeronautics
Job Title: Field sales support systems engineer

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Arts in history and a minor in disability studies from University of Texas Arlington.

What is your past work experience?

A: I started with Lockheed Martin in 2015 as a Parts Information Specialist for F-16 Technical Publications. In 2018, I moved to LM Missiles and Fire Control as a Purchasing and Materials Analyst for several hypersonic missile programs. In 2019, I returned to Aeronautics in my current role as a Systems Engineer for the F-35 Program's Data Quality Integration Management group. I also served six years in the United States Air Force as an engine mechanic on F-16s, and worked briefly for Pratt and Whitney as an engine technician on the F-35 before joining Lockheed Martin.

What are your career aspirations?

A: My goals include gaining knowledge and work experience across the various lines of business within my company, becoming a team lead, working as a program manager on a major development project and someday ascending the corporate ladder to an executive role.

Why did you choose METM?

A: Even though I have years of experience working in STEM fields, my prior education does not directly correlate with my career. The METM program seemed like a perfect opportunity to build on the knowledge I have learned in my industry and in my military service, while also providing me the leadership and business training that I will need to elevate my career to new heights. Also, I couldn't resist my opportunity to finally become an Aggie.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: It has been an incredible experience learning about a myriad of different industries outside of my own. I have always felt as though people in the aerospace industry are very passionate about what they do, but I did not realize the level of dedication and hard work that it takes to become an expert in energy, cyber security, civil engineering and so many more fields. Through my classmates, I have gained a deeper appreciation for all disciplines of engineering.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: I am pretty proud of my military service, including a deployment to Afghanistan in 2016, as well as going back to school in my late 20s to finish my bachelor's degree. However, my greatest accomplishment is definitely the two beautiful kids that my wife and I have. They bring so much joy into our lives and they make everything I am doing to provide a better upbringing for them worthwhile.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: Since "James" is such a common first name, I am inevitably called by some sort of incorrect combination of my names (Mark Tyler James) everywhere I have worked. At one place I allowed the HR department to refer to me as "James TAYLOR" for two years without correcting them. Because of this, a friend of mine at Lockheed decided to welcome me there in 2015 with a "signed" poster of James Taylor in my cubicle as a joke. To this day I still proudly display it in my office, as well as call my son "Sweet Baby James." Sometimes you just gotta own it.

Ryan Christopher Holt

Industry Field: Oil and gas
Employer: Siemens
Job Title: Production supervisor

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science in industrial technology

What is your past work experience?

A: United States Marine Corps infantry and amphibious assault vehicle combat veteran in the Global War on Terrorism, CAD Designer, Manufacturing Engineer, Production Engineer and Production Supervisor.

What are your career aspirations?

A: To acquire the knowledge and experience necessary to establish and sustain myself as a marketable competitor within oil and gas EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction), and with each career move, advance my position as a leader.

Why did you choose METM?

A: The curriculum compliments my career aspirations and uniquely identifies me in a market flooded with MBAs. Additionally, the flexibility of the program allows me to better prioritize it alongside the other aspects of my life, which consist of a demanding wife and two children, and an even more demanding full-time job. Lastly, the academic Engineering name ID, along with the student body and former student culture associated with Texas A&M, is second to none.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: How to be a formidable jokester.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: Successfully leading Marines in combat operations.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: I am a sixth-generation Texan and a qualifier (via genetics) of the Sons of the Republic of Texas.

Paul Scott Carman

Industry Field: Oil and gas
Employer: ConocoPhillips
Job Title: Completion fluid specialist

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science in chemistry

What is your past work experience?

A: Over 25 years of experience in oil and gas with service companies providing technical expertise for problem solving in various product lines, R&D, training and onshore and offshore completions operations experience. I am an inventor/co-inventor on 12 patents and have published over 35 papers.

What are your career aspirations?

A: To become a principal scientist within the Global Wells group supporting the business units worldwide.

Why did you choose METM?

A: I chose the program because of the offerings and the program fit well with my current job duties and would compliment my experiences. Because of my scientific background, I did not want to get an MBA but wanted to have a better understanding of other parts of the business such as finance and supply chain. The program is a fantastic blend of these.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: The many different disciplines and types of experiences create a unique environment. Listening to different ideas can actually help solve potential problems you haven’t even thought of yet.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: I am an amateur photographer.

Lisa Ely

Industry Field: Test and measurement
Employer: National Instruments
Job Title: Technical Services Group Manager

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Management, computer information systems

What is your past work experience?

A: I am blessed to have worked at the same company for almost 29 years. At National Instruments, we help engineers, technicians and scientists "do more, innovate faster, and easily integrate new technologies." The products we create are utilized by people all over the world. My career at National Instruments started in 1991 where I worked in Customer Service. One year later, I moved to engineering where I was the administrator to a vice president/co-founder and his team. He allowed me to grow my own career by looking for opportunities for advancement. That team was responsible for LabVIEW, a systems engineering software package for test, measurement and control. I created the Software Technician role in LabVIEW and performed that role for a few years. In 2002, I went back to school and obtained my Bachelor of Science degree while continuing to work full-time. Afterwards, I started supervising and later managed a team which consisted of software technicians, desktop support technicians and software engineers. I currently manage of team of highly talented software and hardware technicians whose contributions span across R&D.

What are your career aspirations?

A: I'd like to continue growing my career as a people manager. I enjoy helping shape the careers of others and am proud when I see what they've accomplished. I want to be the best manager I can be and I feel that the METM degree will help in that endeavor.

Why did you choose METM?

A: For a couple of years, I knew I wanted to obtain a master's degree from Texas A&M University. I periodically reviewed the Texas A&M website, looking for an online degree program where I could be successful. I found that in METM. In fact, I felt the degree program was written just for me because it was so perfectly aligned with my career goals.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: METM class of 2020 has an awesome group of students. We have a great blend of people in different industries who have various life experiences. Through that diversity, we have worked together to achieve our goals and have brought out the best in each other. We encouraged each other when challenges occurred and celebrated our victories together. This cohort has epitomized what it means to be an Aggie.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: For years, the concept of going to college was just a dream I thought outside my reach. Through support from National Instruments and my family, I accomplished that dream in 2008 and am now working toward next goal - my master's degree from Texas A&M. Although my husband and I have been 12th Man members and football season ticket holders for 20 years, we weren't considered 'real' Aggies. Now, I can proudly say I'm in the Texas A&M METM class of 2020. The phone call from Dr. Zoghi congratulating me on being accepted into the program is a call I will never forget!

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: Growing up, my family raised and trained Arabian horses. We often went to horse shows and participated in various competitive classes. My mother even made the costumes for the humans AND the horses which were displayed in the show ring. My earliest memories in life always involved horses, and my sisters and I learned at an early age what it meant to be responsible.

Tyler Hurst

Industry Field: Semiconductor
Employer: Cypress
Job Title: MTS equipment engineer

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science in manufacturing and mechanical engineering technology from Texas A&M University.

What is your past work experience?

A: I started at Samsung Austin Semiconductor and spent three years learning the ion implant process as well as equipment. After mastering process, equipment was far more challenging so I pursued a career on the equipment side. I moved to New York and started up a new fab called Global Foundries. After six years of tool installs and the fab's own challenges, I decided to move back to Texas so I could be closer to family and much better food. I've been at Cypress just about two years now.

What are your career aspirations?

A: I see myself in a technical leadership role much like I am in now but with a much higher level of influence. I've seen decisions throughout my current career be made with little or no data. Wants and short-sighted goals in mind that hurt more than help long term are things I want to eliminate by turning data-driven decisions into prosperous growth and longevity in the company I work for.

Why did you choose METM?

A: The METM program is one of the highest ranked in the nation. After graduating from this program, my professional expectations will undoubtedly align with my aspirations of director/VP level management sooner rather than later.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: Diversity is our strength and our future leadership will change the world for the better.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: Meeting my fiancée and soon-to-be wife Susan in June. Being able to sustain my rich relationships with my family and friends. Earning my undergraduate degree at the best University in the world, Texas A&M, and being accepted into the METM master's program.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: My passion has always been to pursue what I consider the best of the best. I have a good nose for good things and good people. I love to laugh even through the tough times in life. I'm a firm believer that you can always make something better with the exception of my wife Susan. She's beyond the best ever!

Nathan Smith

Industry Field: Defense - U.S. Navy
Employer: Naval Surface Warfare Center, Panama City Division
Job Title: System test engineer

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science in maritime systems engineering from Texas A&M University at Galveston.

What is your past work experience?

A: After college, I served as a surface warfare officer in the Navy. Most of what I did was engineering related on ships, but my last tour saw me doing operational test and evaluation on new mine warfare systems the Navy was fielding. I really became interested in testing and enjoyed being able to apply my experience and knowledge to make sure sailors were receiving new equipment that truly benefited them. After eight years in the Navy, I decided to leave and dip my toe in the civilian workforce. I worked for a year as a potline supervisor for ALCOA in Texas. Realizing that wasn't the job for me, I moved to Florida and went back to work for the government doing what I enjoy: test and evaluation for the Navy.

What are your career aspirations?

A: I really enjoy the hands-on aspects of my job but I believe that I am ready to assume a more managerial role in Test and Evaluation at my command.

Why did you choose METM?

A: Much of what I do is of a technical management nature. When researching programs that would benefit my career growth, I felt the METM program was the best one to apply my GI Bill toward.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: I have learned that we all have unique challenges in our jobs and lives and by sharing our lessons learned, we can help others overcome those hurdles when they arise.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: Being able to serve my country in the Navy as well as being able to continue to serve as a civilian.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: Hurricane Michael did a number on my town last October. Like many people in my community, I lost my house and have been adapting to the new normal here. I appreciated the METM instructors working with me during the extended periods of no internet or electricity last fall and my classmates for helping me get caught up. The hurricane allowed me to start over much from scratch and pursue other dreams I had. I recently bought 33 acres and tractor and have started my path to a more rural life.

Matthew Wiszowaty

Industry Field: Marine engineering
Employer: GEA Mechanical Equipment
Job Title: Marine, energy, oil and gas sales engineer

What type of Bachelor's Degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science in marine engineering.

What is your past work experience?

A: My first seven years out of school I worked onboard various types of vessels (container, oil tanker, drill ships) as a marine engineer. I worked my way through 3rd, 2nd and then 1st engineer during this time of my career. Just over three years ago I transferred into an engineering sales position with GEA who manufactures centrifuges onboard vessels I sailed on as well as many other industries.

What are your career aspirations?

A: During my career I would always like to challenge myself with new opportunities. There is not an end goal, of say CEO of a company, but rather continuously challenge myself with new risks and opportunities.

Why did you choose METM?

A: METM was the perfect mix of what I was looking for. I did not want to select a program that was entirely online. Meeting my classmates meant, meeting the team that would lean on each other when things got tough. Group projects would mean more because we were physically talking to each other. I also liked that we are all engineers of some sort and have had to work in the industry. This means we have worked with both street smarts and not just book smarts. Being from out of state, I thought it was an awesome opportunity to network at a top-notch university and I am very happy with my decision.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: We all are looking to succeed, and we all have other things going on. Many of us travel, all of us have families, some have kids, some are in new industries, but we all are here for the end goal of learning and doing our best. Knowing this makes the frustrating days a bit easier knowing you have a team right behind you to fight along with you. In just a year and a half, we have all made lifelong friends. We were all strangers that first day, but, like I have heard before, strangers are just friends that have not met!

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: Leaving Florida at the end of High School to go to the Massachusetts Maritime Academy. That one decision was scary at that point to leave home on a plane destined for a place where I did not know a soul. I remember the day my mom, dad, sister and brother dropped me off at the airport and I was let go and free. It led me to independence in going to sea, moving after across the country, taking challenging risks, meeting new people, buying houses, and starting this program. That was taking the road less traveled and my greatest accomplishment to date because it has brought me so many great stories, memories and my own feeling of success.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: When I was around eight years old, my mom would give me super long, long division problems when we went out to dinner to keep me from adventuring around the restaurant. She said I was destined to be an engineer. She also told me one day she saw me working on ships. Moms are always right! YOU BET I'M GOING BACK TO SEA!

CJ Thornton

Industry Field: Engineering Heavy Construction
Employer: Caterpillar
Job Title: Quality manager

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science in manufacturing and mechanical engineering technology

What is your past work experience?

A: I left school and worked my first job as a Material Engineer Specialist for a piping design firm. I then recruited on with Caterpillar 8 years ago as a Manufacturing Engineer charged with helping to build a new Hydraulic Excavator facility in south Texas. I became the supervisor over that team and then moved on to be a project manager for my facility. My next role was in supply chain as a Demand and Order Manager for a few years until I transitioned to my current role as a quality manager.

What are your career aspirations?

A: My career goal is to become a Facility Manager and to eventually retire with Caterpillar.

Why did you choose METM?

A: It fits my career perfectly. The best way I can think to describe it is as if I am getting a business degree but with all of the specific things I need to know about the technical industry I work in every day. I'm not just learning to evaluate profit, but to evaluate operating profit after cost of goods sold. I am learning how to make decisions based on potential return on investments based on industry factors, not just Wall Street.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: The other students in the group are amazing. We are from such diverse backgrounds that it lends to the learning process. Seeing firsthand how other companies and industries tackle their own challenges either lends new perspective and ideas or lends camaraderie in the similarities.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: My greatest life accomplishment is my husband of 11 years and my two daughters.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: I was a Neeley Hall Crew Chief for off campus Student Bonfire in 2004 at Texas A&M.

Gray Lankford

Industry Field: LED
Employer: GEN LED Brands
Job Title: Distribution Sales

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Manufacturing and mechanical engineering technology

What is your past work experience?

A: Before I entered my recent sales role, I was the senior project manager of our R&D team, overseeing the development of new LED fixtures and modules to light the world. I worked my way up from a Junior Mechanical Engineer position, learning the basics of LED design, system management and application use case. Focusing on developing a strong knowledge base in my field allowed me to be a successful manager, delivering new products to the market with excellent margins. These skills have transitioned well into my sales role as I train our customers to use our product so that they feel confident when using and installing products.

What are your career aspirations?

A: I plan to start my own business one day. I'm not sure what the business will be, I am very good at taking others ideas and making them a reality. This could mean I continue to do product development across a wide range of fields and applications. If you have an idea, reach out and let's see if it is something we can create a success story out of.

Why did you choose METM?

A: The course curriculum seemed very similar to the work I was currently doing along with a few new areas focused on business. I though I would have success in this degree plan by reinforcing my professional work - turns out I was right.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: The friendships and experience of classmates and professors is the true treasure of the METM program. You meet people from all kinds of industries. Sharing experiences and different methods of work opens your eyes to the possibilities ahead.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: My family. Moving into my sales role allowed me to relocate my wife and kids back to our hometown with about 20 family members around us which has been a huge help since we recently had twins! A family of 6 with 4 kids under 4 needs all hands on board! 

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: I won a state championship in football my senior year of highs school, the first one in Liberty Hill's history. My wife loves when me and my friends get together and reminisce. It was 12 years ago, but the teamwork an dedication it took to play at a championship level sticks with me today. If I find myself slacking, I think back to the dedication and high level of practice we had to maintain for years to reach our goal. The same is required to be successful in life and business. If you allow yourself to become stagnant, someone will pass you by.

John Portillo

Industry Field: Energy
Employer: AZZ Nuclear
Job Title: Senior director nuclear sales operations

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Industrial distribution

What is your past work experience?

A: I have been with AZZ Nuclear (formerly NLI) for 22 years. I have progressed from regional account manager, senior sales manager, director of international and strategic accounts to my current position. I have transitioned from field sales to senior management.

What are your career aspirations?

A: To continue to grow my EQ and help others grow in their careers.

Why did you choose METM?

A: The program had a strong mix of financial and technical focus that I have been looking for in a program. The online based program allows me to split time evenly between family, work and school. It has been challenging but completely manageable.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: I have learned to appreciate the differences in people and have been continuously amazed at the willingness of everyone to jump in and help any member of our cohort.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: I was somehow able to convince my wife to marry me.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: I love martial arts. I have trained in 5 different disciplines and have a black belt or advanced rank in 2 of the 5.

Lance Nelson Decker

Industry Field: Technology
Employer: BlueCats US LLC
Job Title: Vice president of program management

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences from UT Tyler.

What is your past work experience?

A: USAF - 1980 - 1995
Motorola - Technical Instructor - 1995 - 1996
TSR Wireless - Director R&D - 1996 - 2000
Wireless Applications Corp - VP Sales Eng 2000 - 2001
Wireless Innovations Inc. Owner 2001 - 2005
Space Data Corporation - Manager Field Applications Eng 2005 - 2007
Identec Solutions - Program Manager - 2007 - 2011
HotHead Technologies - Director R&D 2011 - 2014
Tenaris - Sr. Automation Specialist - 2014 - 2018
BlueCats US LLC 2018 - Present

What are your career aspirations?

A: I would like to continue to grow in engineering project management and eventually be a CTO of a company.

Why did you choose METM?

A: When I read about the program, I immediately recognized that this is the program I had been looking for. I had tried an MBA program, but realized early on that my path was more technical. This program gives me up to the minute immediately applicable skills to use in my current role.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: My cohort is very strong in a number of ways. Everyone pursues excellence in every portion of the program. We get along very well and even though we are remote most of the time from each other, we have built strong bonds.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: My time serving in the U.S. Air Force was one of the most rewarding experiences in my life. Beyond that, I am able to teach others about grief and grief recovery. I'm quite proud of the number of people I have been able to help.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: I am trying to teach myself how to frame artwork. It is a chance to use my hands and create something of beauty.

Taylor Leach

Industry Field: Building Automation Solutions and Energy Management
Employer: Schneider Electric
Job Title: BMS product specialist engineer - Solutions Engineering Team

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: I graduated with one degree in technology management, a second degree in Human Resource Development, and a minor in business administration.

What is your past work experience?

A: Currently, I work with a team to provide engineering support, architectural advice, technical support, and real-time troubleshooting of systems ranging from pre-construction all the way to final install and follow up service for all of North America. Before Schneider Electric, I spent about 5 years or so moving up through desktop support at various companies and finally landed at Texas A&M to become an IT Systems Administrator.

What are your career aspirations?

A: My most ambitious career goal at the moment is to become a CIO or maybe even a CISO. My current company provides me so many avenues to continue growing personally and professionally, so I see this goal being obtainable in the company I am in now.

Why did you choose METM?

A: I chose METM because it followed very closely to my undergraduate degree (Technology Management vs Technical Management). METM also has offered a vision to take what I wanted to do professionally to the next level by providing me with the necessary skills to communicate with people, manage teams and projects, and continue honing my skills as a leader all while being able to provide a deeper level of engineering knowledge in my field.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: With being one of the youngest in the program, the availability of knowledge and experience in so many different industries is something that is unparalleled to any program, school, or event I have ever been a part of by far. This has been one of the first times I have interacted with this many professionals in such an intimate setting. While the competitive nature is there, the willingness to help each other and lift one another up has been astounding.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: Coming from a blue collar family, I say persevering through college and graduating with two degrees is my greatest accomplishment so far and being accepted into Texas A&M's engineering program is a close second. However, I am very ambitious, so these will not be the greatest achievements over my lifetime.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: One unique thing about myself that surprises people is that I'm somewhat of an endurance junkie. I think it stemmed from being told I could not do something. I enjoy running long distance obstacle course races and completed five of them last year. I also conquered six different 14,000 plus foot mountains covering over 40 miles within three days in Colorado last September. Some people call that sort of thing crazy. I call it a great big dose of mental sobriety!

Pablo Antonio Anzueto

Industry Field: Plastics/petrochemicals
Employer: Ravago Americas
Job Title: Project manager/SME for bulk solids handling and plant engineering

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science in industrial distribution

What is your past work experience?

A: Since 2005 I have worked in the plastics industry serving many roles in sales, engineering, equipment specification and system design/troubleshooting. I have worked with many groups worldwide in the plastics/petrochemical industry. I currently serve at Ravago Americas as a Project Manager/Engineer assisting our worldwide group with process specifications, plant systems and troubleshooting support.

What are your career aspirations?

A: My goal is to become the Vice President of Ravago North America, assisting our various business units with technology improvements that help serve our customers.

Why did you choose METM?

A: The program complements my role and it adds value by introducing me to different techniques and methods to better understand not only who I am as a person, but to translate that into accomplishing the goals of our company. The various aspects of financial, operations and people management are very important in my field and the METM program has the tools necessary to take me to the next level.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: My classmates come from different backgrounds and industries. They have allowed me to understand how different companies operate and they bring different skills that I have learned to incorporate into my daily work/life schedule.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: I am a father to two beautiful children and have an amazing wife who encourage me to do better each and every day. That, to me, has been my greatest accomplishment to continue to give my family the best I can.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: For the last 14 years out of school, I have had the blessing to be able to travel the world. Experiencing different cultures, food, and meeting new people has opened my eyes to what this world has to offer. My travels have changed the way I manage myself with the ultimate goal to take care of my family. These experiences, that most people unfortunately don't have, is what is unique about me.

Chauma L. Smith Guss

Industry Field: Information technology
Employer: Texas A&M College of Engineering IT
Job Title: Senior IT professional I

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Arts in English literature

What is your past work experience?

A: I spent 18 years in the private sector working first as a data analyst, progressing through tier 2 technical support into virtual systems administration and engineering. For the past three years, I have been working for the College of Engineering at Texas A&M University as part of the team developing and maintaining virtualization technologies to support virtual labs and distance learning using Citrix and VMWare. Recently, I have been delving into Amazon's cloud technologies as a logical next step in virtualization.

What are your career aspirations?

A: I am expanding my role from technical specialization into team leadership with the ultimate goal of leading a solid group of creative specialists providing innovative solutions for processing information into data and applications that have practical relevance to business units and non-technical clients.

Why did you choose METM?

A: The program fits my need to broaden my professional skillsets, feeding my deep curiosity about not only computing systems and processes but also business and leadership logistics and processes. It serves to round out my knowledge base and fill in the gaps of my experience to allow me to take the next steps.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: Every day I learn more about other businesses and industries, what works, and what's improving. The talent and enthusiasm among my peers never ceases to impress me. Our strength is in our willingness to pull together so we all reach the finish line.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: Forging a career in technology out of a passion for clear communication.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: Despite my professional passion for technology, at home I prefer things as simple and unplugged as practical.

Ted Machicek

Industry Field: Technology
Employer: Hewlett Packard Enterprise
Job Title: Operations manager\chief of staff

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of business administration

What is your past work experience?

A: In the last 35 years, I served four years in the United States Marine Corps. At the end of my service, I was hired by NASA where I worked on the extra vehicular suits, trained the crew members selected for EVA (spacewalks), and supported multiple shuttle missions. Seeking to expand my skills, I took positions as CADD designer in several large Oil and Chemical companies (Shell, BASF, etc.). Ultimately, this experience created an opportunity to join Compaq Server Group, now known as Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), where I have managed projects and teams across the US, China, Taiwan and India.

What are your career aspirations?

A: Learn, improve and provide value to any challenge where my skills might prove beneficial. Simply put, to make a difference is the driving force behind my efforts.

Why did you choose METM?

A: The program is essentially a customized a degree plan based on my current role at Hewlett Packard Enterprise. Being a Texas native (Port Lavaca, Texas) and a life long Aggie fan, when I saw the opportunity to pursue a master's degree directly related to my career, not to mention the opportunity to become the proudest member of Texas A&M (Class of 2020), there was no other option for me.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: Diversity and multiple points of view from a wide variety of industries and backgrounds.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: My greatest accomplishments are still ahead of me as I take the knowledge gained from METM forward.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: During my enlistment in the United States Marine Corps, I was assigned to HMX-1 (Marine One) and supported President Reagan and Vice President Bush (1984-1988).

John Alan Lyons

Industry Field: IT
Employer: Self-Employed
Job Title: President, JALINC

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science

What is your past work experience?

A: HP, IBM, GTE and U.S. Patent and Trademark Office as a Patent Examiner. All of my career was based in IT and Telecommunications including Senior Technical Marketing Engineer, Systems Architecture, Section Manager/ SME subject matter expert and other titles along the path. I worked with WAN/LAN in both voice, data, video and various email systems. At HP, I worked on a team migrating all worldwide Communications to VoIP based Skype for Business at more than 800 sites around the globe.

What are your career aspirations?

A: Upon graduation, I hope to return to A&M as an instructor.

Why did you choose METM?

A: Dr. Zoghi is the most influential reason I picked the program and because it is such a great opportunity to expand horizons and hopefully give back some of the immense blessings I have received.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: A fine bunch of folks who care and are willing and able to pitch in for other's success. I think we complement each other due to our diversity and different backgrounds and experience.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: I hope I have yet to achieve my greatest accomplishment! Two things come to mind, Honorable Discharge from the United States Air Force and graduating from Texas A&M University the first time.

Ysabel Ledezma

Industry Field: Energy
Employer: Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy
Job Title: District service manager

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Business Administration in computer information systems

What is your past work experience?

A: Retired 22 years service in the Texas Army National Guard. Previous experience includes being a project manager of a software development team.

What are your career aspirations?

A: To position myself for a director-level position or move laterally within Siemens Gamesa.

Why did you choose METM?

A: I needed a graduate level program that would benefit my current job role and still allow me to work a job that requires 50% travel.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: Teamwork makes good things happen!

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: Commissioning as second lieutenant via the Officer Training Command program in the United States Navy.

Fernando Guirola

Industry Field: Manufacturing engineering/project management
Employer: TAM International
Job Title: Manufacturing engineer/global project manager

What type of bachelor's degree did you earn?

A: Bachelor of Science in manufacturing and mechanical engineering technology

What is your past work experience?

A: Most of my career has been in the oil and gas industry focusing in manufacturing. I have worked at several large and small iconic oil and gas companies such as Lufkin, Baker Hughes and TAM. I love the manufacturing environment and the advancements in technology over the last 15 years.

What are your career aspirations?

A: To become a director in manufacturing and grow towards being a VP and eventually CEO of a company. Additionally, I want to start my own company with my wife and make a difference by providing jobs here in the U.S. but most importantly back home in Guatemala.

Why did you choose METM?

A: The courses offered were ideal to me as they are very practical and can be immediately applied to both my professional and personal life.

What have you learned from other students in the cohort?

A: We are a very tight-knit group that supports each other in the good times but more importantly in the bad. I have learned so much from the cohort through the sharing of different ideas, views and experiences.

What is your greatest life accomplishment?

A: My family - both of my kids and my wife.

Tell us one unique thing about yourself.

A: I placed fourth in a Sailing World Championship in France skippering my boat as part of the Guatemalan National Team. I am also a Marathon and Half Marathon runner.