Retired executive - Toyota Motor North America
Why did you decide to come to Leeds?
Although I grew up on the east coast, after several family vacations visiting my grandfather's cattle ranch in South Dakota, I became fascinated with the American West and determined that I wanted to live and work in the western U.S. I decided that the best way to achieve that goal would be to graduate from a good university located where I would like to live. Although I had never been to Colorado, a good friend of mine planned to enroll at CU, so it seemed like the ideal opportunity for me as well. I entered CU in the College of Arts & Sciences; however, I quickly determined that my future was in business, consistent with both of my parents' educations and careers. So, by my second semester, I was enrolled at the College of Business (before it was named Leeds). I am grateful to my parents for providing me the opportunity to pursue my dream.
What is one thing you learned at Leeds that you will never forget?
Our experience in college is much more than academics. We are on our own for perhaps the first time, living and working with peers from all over the country and the world. We are required to interact with people from different cultures and different values. The ability to maintain your own identity while respecting and being open to others' thoughts and beliefs is something that will serve you well throughout your life.
Tell us about a particular professor or mentor that influenced you while you were at Leeds.
Professor Jerry Foster (Transportation Management) had a tremendous interest in seeing his students attain relevant career opportunities after graduating. He opened the door for many of us to work at major corporations, which led to rewarding careers. More importantly for me, he gave me interview coaching that absolutely helped me throughout my life, and I will always be grateful for that.
Where has life taken you since you graduated Leeds?
I was fortunate to land a position in my area of emphasis with a major computer peripherals manufacturer located in the area. After five years, I decided that earning an MBA would broaden my exposure to other opportunities, and I enrolled full-time at Arizona State University. Graduating with an MBA led directly to joining Toyota Motor North America, where I enjoyed a 33-year career of varied and increasingly responsible roles until retiring just last year.
What is one piece of advice/best practice that has stuck with you throughout your career?
Be the person who can be counted on to handle even the most challenging tasks. No matter what role you are in, you will be accountable to someone or some entity. Developing the reputation for accepting challenging tasks or constraints and completing them without complaint makes you a valued resource and often leads to other opportunities. Equally important is developing a reputation for integrity, honesty, and transparency. Do not be afraid to communicate information that may not be positive but is important. If you make a mistake, explain what you learned from it and what measures you're taking to prevent its recurrence.Ìý
What advice would you give to anyone interested in pursuing a career in your professional field?
The path to your ultimate career goal may not be a straight line. Even your career goal may change. Be open to taking detours and lateral moves that may improve some aspect of your skills or experience. And make sure your moves are strategic with the long view in mindÌýthat can easily be explained as part of your career development.
What do you miss most about Boulder?
Of course, most college towns are wonderfully vibrant, but Boulder is such a special place because it is infused with so many cultures. It has a rich history and is both new and familiar. I enjoy finding reminders of my experience there in the '70s alongside so many new and interesting places.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
I truly believe that my experience at CU enabled the many opportunities and remarkable experiences I've enjoyed in my career and life. The University is a special place; thousands of your peers come from around the world and unite for a few years, later to go on their own way again. As you walk around, you see everyone pursuing their own plans but all tied together by the University. You learn about other interests, other cultures and how to interact with other people.ÌýÌý Ìý
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December 2020