Kent Derbyshire
|
Kent DerbyshireMS ‘20 Hometown: Waterton, NY Current Job: Senior Mechanical Engineer at Eaton MS Program: Engineering Management |
Why did you choose UTC CECS?
I selected UTC after extensively researching the top online Engineering Management programs in the country. UTC’s program was affordable, and the coursework was more practical than other programs and directly related to my career ambitions.
What is your career ambition and how is the MS program helping you get there?
I plan to grow into an engineering management or director level role over a design department, and eventually becoming a business owner. The courses in my program have prepared me for both future goals.
What have you liked about the MS program?
The practicality and direct applicability of the courses has been fantastic. I have been able to relate every single course of mine to some aspect of my career, enabling me to be more effective in my current role, as well as future jobs.
Did you take any online courses?
Yes, I completed my entire degree online. I enjoyed the hybrid nature of the courses. There were still in-class students and there were in-person lectures recorded. I felt that I was not missing out on anything as a remote learner. I also enjoyed the flexibility of an online class. I worked full time while taking classes, so the online classes offered me the flexibility to review the lectures and complete the work at my own pace when I had free time.
Have you had support from CECS faculty/staff?
Dr. Aldo McLean has been great through my degree progression. He taught multiple classes of mine, and was a phenomenal resource and mentor as my advisor for my Capstone project. He made the program truly enjoyable! Jan Evans taught one of the most fascinating classes of my degree, Technical Entrepreneurship and Leadership. His teaching style changed my style of thinking and perceptions about several subjects.
How has the program helped you?
It has provided me with a strong toolset to use later in my career either as an engineering manager or business owner.
What has been the best part of your experience?
It has been great to collaborate with and learn from others in my program from across the country and across different industries.