Q&A with Erik Logan, TMMBA student
Erik Logan, CEO of Pogo Linux Corporation, shares his experiences in the UW Foster School’s Technology Management MBA program.
Why did you choose the Technology Management MBA program at the Foster School?
I compared the Technology Management MBA program to many other work-compatible programs on the West Coast and found the TMMBA to be an exceptional value for the high level of education that was being offered. In addition, UW has a huge network in the Puget Sound and I realized this would be a huge asset for me in growing my career.
Could you describe your experience in the TMMBA program?
I believe it is hard to fully prepare students for the work load they will encounter, and the first quarter is like drinking from a fire hose. However, I also feel that it is one of the strengths of the program. It really pushed me as a student to excel in tough conditions and practice better time management. The quality of instruction is very high and the course concepts are extremely engaging.
What class has been the most useful or interesting to you so far?
I have yet to take a class that I didn’t feel was extremely useful or interesting. That said, if I had to pick a favorite, I would say strategy. This class opened my eyes to a whole new way of thinking about business problems. This class was invaluable at getting me out of the mindset of an engineer and thinking about what will really make a business venture successful. It was a good foundation that was built upon by many other marketing and strategy classes later on in the program.
What are your impressions of the faculty?
So far I have been very impressed with the faculty. For the most part, they really take the time to understand the students and to specifically tailor the content and learning experience to your needs. There are definitely a few professors that stick out in my mind as really making an impression on my learning experience. I look forward to reaching out to them in the future if I ever have questions in their domain of expertise.
How has your TMMBA experience enabled you to see your industry differently?
The TMMBA experience has helped me look at my industry through a whole new set of eyes. Before, I would mostly be focused on the technology aspects of the industry, but now I am far more keen to recognize the business trends and opportunities that are available. This shift in thinking has opened up many new opportunities for me that I look forward to pursing once I have completed the program.
What strategies do you use to balance work, life, and the TMMBA program?
Time management and getting ahead of things are absolutely key to doing well in the program. Getting in the habit of doing a little work every day will help alleviate the load and keep you on schedule. Also, be honest with yourself about your time.
Is there anything else you want to tell prospective students about this program?
There is no doubt that the TMMBA is an intense program. However, the quality of education is exceptional, and being able to get a degree of this level in only 18 months is a huge advantage. Also, the compressed format gives you other advantages such as improving your time management skills. Ultimately you get out of what you put in–you are in control of the level of education you receive.
