Biography
Jason's career聽in satellite operations and engineering spans over 20 years. In that time, he gained extensive experience through the entire systems engineering 'V' - business concept, business development, design, build, test and flight of satellites and their ground systems. John has聽worked on civil, national, DoD and commercial programs - all of which have their own unique paradigms and cultures. John attended the U.S. Air Force Academy, Metropolitan University of Denver, and CU Boulder. He volunteers with the (AIAA), talking with elected officials, policy advocates and adjacent aerospace liaisons, to advance the message of the aerospace/astronautics industry to gain great understanding and appreciation of our vast and diverse industry.聽 John earned his ME in Engineering Management in 2012.
Q&A
What made you decide to pursue a degree or certificate in Engineering Management?
Career advancement; increased earning potential; greater understanding of business acumen and concepts.
Why did you choose the Engineering Management Program at CU Boulder?
Staff experience and insight into the industry.
How did the program help you in your career?
EMP offered me greater ability to navigate my career opportunities and understand the business lens that companies employ to drive their success.
What was your favorite graduate EMEN class/professor? Why?
That's challenging, as there were many great instructors. If I have to choose one, it would be Jeff Luftig. He has an excellent sense of the business and a great manner of teaching. He has a way of teaching that inspired us to look further into the topics and understand the forest for the trees.
What advice would you give a new student in the program?
Don't spend all your class time taking notes. Listen. Ask questions - LOTS of them. Think about what you're being taught - really digest it and take it in. The greatest assets of the EMP lies in its instructors. Their knowledge, expertise and insight into business and industry is truly unsurpassed. Really getting to know them and their experiences will give you greater insight into the industry and increased success in navigating your own career.
How would you summarize your experience with the program?聽
I frequently look back on my time in the EMP with great fondness and gratitude. I enjoyed my time there immensely and employ the knowledge I gained there on a weekly, if not daily, basis.
Are there any other comments that you'd like to share?聽
Enjoy this program. Really take the time to talk with the staff and the instructors. Going through the EMP is like navigating a 'mini-career' in academia - but in reality, it's an experience that is deeply rooted in the culture of business and industry