The MBA program at UW-Stevens Point was developed with local economic impact in mind, including unique course offerings in business-to-business sales and marketing
When the faculty members of the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (UWSP) School of Business and Economics (SBE) were exploring the addition of the Master of Business of Administration (MBA) degree, they knew a fresh perspective of the local economy would be an essential part of the program. The intention was to educate the candidates who would enter the workforce to positively impact local businesses and have a lasting impression in their communities.
The MBA team reached out to local businesses to understand the skills needed and desired for future employees and managers. The research results allowed the MBA program to be customized to the needs of regional businesses and organizations. Gamber-Johnson was one of the companies involved in this research. “It is a benefit to have a program from an amazing educational establishment focused on our employees,” said Darrell Martin, marketing manager for Gamber-Johnson. “The emphasis of the local economy, which brings 90% of our employees, and the business-to-business marketing courses have a huge impact on our economic development.”
The research results showed there was a gap in skills around business-to-business marketing. The well-rounded and applied focus of the MBA program filling this need was necessary for the growth of the local economy. Including this component in the degree also sets the program apart from other MBA offerings across the state.
Since attaining his degree from UWSP, Garrett Neta, MBA ’21, and Gamber-Johnson product marketer, has taken on a new product line. “He has had a significant impact on progressing our corporate connections, which I believe is in part to his training from the MBA program,” said Martin.
Gamber-Johnson is a leading supplier of rugged mounting systems that safely secure mobile communication systems, computers, and other electronic equipment in fleet vehicles, public safety vehicles, forklifts, and other mobility applications. Their products are used by law enforcement, public safety, military, and warehouse fleets around the globe and are known for being rugged, reliable, and responsive. Founded in 1954, Gamber-Johnson is located in Stevens Point, Wis.
Additionally this research with local businesses is what drove the MBA team to start offering community skill-building classes. The idea behind these sessions is to share some key business building skills in one 45-minute course. The goal is for attendees to have easily implementable skills that can be immediately helpful to their business. These courses will be offered in communities served by UW-Stevens Point.
The next session is at Mission Coffee in Plover on Aug. 10, 2022, at 5 p.m. on the topic of Onboarding and Retaining a Great Team. This class is open to the public. Would you be willing to host a community class in your community? To discuss details contact Carie Winn at cwinn@uwsp.edu or 715-346-2112. For more information about the MBA program, email mbainfo@uwsp.edu or visit uwsp.edu/mba.