Ryan Bennett
Product Marketing Manager • VorTek Instruments
Graduate Certificate in Technology Ventures & Product Management • 2019

Biography

Ryan earned a BS in Industrial Distribution in 2009 from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. This is a joint program between the School of Engineering and the School of Business. While most graduates start their careers in technical sales or technical marketing roles, Ryan started his career in the process control industry as an Application Engineer. Since then, he's remained in the process control industry holding positions as an Application Engineer, Account Manager (outside sales), and now Product Marketing Manager with .Ìý

Q&A

What made you decide to pursue a degree or certificate in Engineering Management?
Our company had shifted its focus to emphasize new product development. I saw a need within our company for someone with the skills to help guide the product development process and help promote these products.

Why did you choose the Engineering Management Program at CU Boulder?
The Technology Ventures & Product Management certificate program seemed like a perfect fit for what we needed. Also, I liked the idea of attending in-person classes versus an online program. So being in the greater Denver area worked well for me.

How did the program help you in your career?
After completing the program, I moved from a more technical/customer service type role of Application Engineer to the position of Product Marketing Manager. In this role, I'm growing skills in product development, product management, and product marketing.

What was your favorite graduate EMEN class/professor? Why?
EMEN 5400: Product Development, taught by Professor Readey. The material itself was already fascinating to me before taking the class. But I also enjoyed the style in which Professor Readey taught the class. The mock trade show to finish the course was fun and engaging.

How would you summarize your experience with the program? 
Overall my experience was very positive. The professors were very knowledgeable and professional. Classes were very interactive and discussion-based.