Dallas Technologist Counts On Master's Degree For Career Growth
Allen Gwinn is the senior director of technology at Southern Methodist University (SMU). He supervises the technology at the Cox School of Business at SMU.
Why did you pursue a master's degree?
"I always wanted to pursue an M.B.A. but hadn't carved out the time to do it. What motivated me was how fast the role of the technologist was changing. Today's technology leaders need a much broader base of education than was needed when the industry was in its infancy. When we're younger, our technical skills tend to be more important. As we progress through life, we're expected to transition toward leadership so the emphasis transitions away from technical and more toward business and management skills. An M.B.A. is an enormous asset for those of us approaching (or even in) that life transition."
What would you tell someone who is considering returning to school to earn a master's degree?
"'Job security' is not how secure you are in your current job, rather, it's what kind of job you can get if your current job suddenly evaporates. Many of us get complacent and are caught by surprise when our current career abruptly ends. A master's degree can make a huge difference getting back in the game."
What was the biggest challenge you faced when pursuing your master's degree?
"It was finding the time. It doesn't matter if you're the CEO of a multi-national enterprise or a sales clerk, we all get 24 hours in our day. Balancing work, home and consulting with school life was a challenge. Many feel that 'if I can just wait until next year' the timing will be better—but next year never comes. You have to force the time to do it into the picture."
What was the biggest reward for earning the master's degree?
"Networking. My classmates were doctors, lawyers, in finance, sales and other industries. The relationships you build are among the most important you'll ever make. The accomplishment itself both personally and professionally adds an aspect of credibility."
Robin D. Everson is a native Chicagoan who resides in Dallas, Texas. Her appreciation for art, food, wine, people and places has helped her become a well-respected journalist. A life-long lover of education, Robin seeks to learn and enlighten others about culture. You can find her work at Examiner.com
