Cynthia Mackewicz

What was the nature of your job before you decided to join the EMTM program?

I was worldwide operations manager of a new venture start-up at AlliedSignal. My responsibilities included completing technical commercialization of novel nano-optical/electronic components geared toward LCD and high-end lighting applications. Part of the commercialization effort included forming manufacturing partner alliances with in-country supply chain providers to OEM's, which is where I became acutely aware of challenging business issues that come with starting new venture launch.

What made you decide to go back to grad school? Why the EMTM program at Stevens?

My undergraduate degree is in Chemical Engineering, which provides strong technology skills but not necessarily the business related experiences that are needed to fully taking on challenging managerial and business assignments. Steven's was the clear choice for several reasons:

1. Reputation, Quality and Integrity of Faculty and School - Steven's professors possess both the practical work experience as well as educational acumen that adds "real world" value to the curriculum that goes beyond theory.
2. The program offers practicum case study approach with ability to work on REAL opportunities - even a current work assignment
3. The program is designed for the working executive in an optimal time period - 20 months to complete with opportunity to take further classes if interested.

What value did you derive from the program?

I gained a deeper understanding and real appreciation for entrepreneurial business ownership e.g. business processes, managerial decision making, financial analysis, critical success factors, strategic planning, marketing, etc. and I continue to utilize everything learned in current business activities today.

What changes have occurred in your professional life since taking the program?

I left AlliedSignal at the end of 1998 and ventured into the Internet and Software space as VP of Operations for a few years before taking on my current assignment working for a multinational software product and services company as President and GM of their SMB US and Latin America divisions. I also own my own best practice business management consulting services company thanks in large part to the executive and leadership confidence gained from participating in the Steven's MTM program.