Each week, JWMI profiles students and alumni in its new featured series “Winning Voices.” Learn about our diverse community and what sets our program apart from those who have experienced it. For more great “Winning Voices” content, click here.
Angela Stitcher
Manager, Leadership Development
Abbott Vascular
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
My responsibilities include putting training programs together for our Leadership Development Program, Selling Skills, and Continuing Education workshops, which are geared toward our managers and leaders.
How has the JWMI curriculum helped you in your career?
When I first started at JWMI, I worked for Medtronic, Inc. I made a transition to Abbott during my tenure during the program. When I came to Abbott, I was hired to be the Regional Sales Director for the Atlanta market. Within the year, I accepted the position of Manager, Leadership Development.
Why were you looking to get an MBA?
When the timing finally hit me at Medtronic that I was ready to move up in the company, I decided I needed my MBA. Why? Over the years, I continually self-taught myself on leadership and management skills. What I really needed was to round out my learnings at a higher level around a global organization. I needed to reach beyond my regional responsibilities, and learn how to successfully run a company that operates not only in the United States but also in emerging markets.
Did you find the curriculum was immediately applicable, please explain?
The learnings were impactful from day one. The philosophy around learning the content on Monday, apply it on Tuesday and report back on Wednesday. My learnings gave me the confidence to do what I never thought I would do at this point in my career; leave a company that had been with for almost 20 years and start anew.
Looking back at what you thought about an online program when you first started, what is your overall impression now? Did it meet your expectations, via DQ boards, Executive of Practice videos, Jack calls, faculty, etc.?
The program was far above my expectations. The professors were transparent in their expectations, encouraging in their interactions, and challenging in their DQ’s. Using a program that focuses on video learnings from current, relevant CEO’s was another impactful part of the program. Further, Jack’s live discussions and videos are what brings the whole program together. Without the different venues and arms of the programs, it would not be as successful.
What’s been your most rewarding experience in the program
The most rewarding experience for me is to earn the confidence, in business, that I lacked. I knew I wanted to “move-up” in my organization, but I also knew that I had a gap. I was worried about the financial classes, and understanding how to read a company’s annual financial report. Now, I love looking up company’s annual reports and assessing how they are performing as an organization.
What strategies did you implement to manage job, family, life and an MBA?
What was one of the early learnings from Jack on work-life-balance? That’s right; he said I believe it is work-life-choices. I agree. Earning my MBA was extremely important to me, but I didn’t want to just “check the box.” I wanted the Honors grade, and I was determined to show my children that no matter your age, education, learning, and developing yourself is a continual process. I have three children, work full time where I travel every week, and a husband who was super supportive. Earning your MBA is a choice, choose to better yourself.
What advice can you share with new students embarking on the Jack Welch online MBA journey?
My advice is simple, be engaged in your discussions, take the time to read and watch all the materials, don’t be afraid to challenge your classmates to think bigger and broader, and get ready to push yourself beyond what you ever thought was possible!
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