The Value of a Mines Degree

Transcript

Now, Eric knows a thing or two about Mines experience. After all, he’s currently completing a PhD in space resources, which is his third degree at Mines. He not only knows firsthand the stellar return on investment a Mines degree has, but also knows the incredible reputation Mines graduates have in the workforce for getting the job done well. Take it away, Eric.

– Thanks for the intro, Alex, and hi, everyone. Mines consistently ranks among top universities for return on investment. So it was a no brainer for me to come here for not just one degree, but two. And now, I’m back again from my third. My first degree in chemical engineering led directly to my first industry job at Texas Instruments. TI came to MINES specifically to recruit each year. I later learned this was because they knew we didn’t shy away from challenging, sometimes, unsolved problems, and I had no shortage of that once I got to Dallas. In addition to running the chemical systems for the chip plant, and after only three months there, I was asked to also oversee the design and construction of the systems for the new factory being built. I joined a larger team. Now, I specifically remember the first meeting when the senior manager introduced me and said, “This is Eric. He’s young. Needs to learn a lot, but he’s from Mines, so he’ll be fine.” From that project, I learned it was way more fun to design and build systems than it was just to run them. When the semiconductor industry crashed in the 2000s, I transitioned to part-time work, and came back to Mines for a master’s in engineering and technology management. This additional layer of business understanding led directly to me becoming CEO of my company. I still work in projects in the aerospace, bio science, pharma, and manufacturing sectors, and I meet all kinds of Minds alumni in all kinds of roles. Sometimes we even had the same professors. Now I’m back at Mines to complete my set of degrees with a PhD in space resources. I’m working with outstanding people and learning skills I know will last far beyond my next graduation. And having seen it firsthand on projects, I know the value of the diplomas and the connections I’m making will lead to continued success. Mines makes hell of engineers to change the world. Back to you, Alex.

– Eric, wow. Thanks for sharing your journey. It’s so fun to hear about how your Minds degrees have served you throughout your career. And I can’t wait to see where your PhD will take you next, perhaps even beyond earth. Thanks again, Eric.