| Product Marketing Management, Principle software
Managing Principal, Shah Management & Company LLC
EMTM 9 (Class of 2001) |
What was the nature of your job before you decided to join the EMTM program?
I was a sales engineer for a major networking company. My responsibilities included pre-sales activities and support of project implementations at major enterprise corporations. Just prior to joining the EMTM program, I had taken a position with Lucent Technologies as a Product Manager. I enjoyed my job and experiences as it gave me the foundation for technology knowledge and the businesses that embraced it.
What made you decide to go back to grad school? Why the EMTM program at Stevens?
I have an undergraduate degree in Computer Engineering from Rutgers University. I have always been an advocate for life-long learning and the need for combining business acumen with technical discipline. I have held several positions in sales engineering, project management, and product management within technology based companies. With my ambition to succeed as a business leader, I quickly recognized the need for a formal education that would instill the skills, knowledge, and leadership necessary to succeed in the global competitive workplace of the twenty-first century.
After reviewing many graduate business programs, I selected the EMTM/EMBA Technology Management program at Stevens Institute of Technology. I was drawn to their reputation among major New Jersey corporations and its‘¦ continued momentum towards national recognition. I was very impressed with the industry experience of the faculty, integrated classroom education combining theory and practical business situations, and hands-on applications. Finally, the convenience of the off-campus locations and a worker-friendly schedule was appealing to me.
What value did you derive from the program?
I developed a great level of discipline to think strategically. I was able to apply more structured methodologies to help me achieve strategic business goals. The program gave me the foundation to think and act as a business manager. The classroom interactions with other working professionals enhanced my skills to work effectively, think differently, and collaborate ideas as one would experience in any business environment. I was able to gain the confidence I needed to combine my own skills and knowledge to achieve personal and professional growth.
What changes have occurred in your professional life since taking the program?
A few years after graduating from the program, I took on a senior role in product management for a small hardware and software technology company in New Jersey. I thank Stevens for helping me sharpen my skills to become a better business leader and provide a strong foundation for future success. I am currently working for a software company to help market technology solutions to enhance business value for Fortune 500 clients. Also, I have formed an independent management firm specializing in talent acquisition of technology and business professionals. I look forward to continue to apply my knowledge and skills in becoming an effective business leader.
