Sustainability Master’s Degree A Game-Changer for Student’s Growing Career
December 20, 2024 2024-12-20 15:24
Sustainability Master’s Degree A Game-Changer for Student’s Growing Career
by Michael Mahaffey
As industries worldwide move toward more sustainable practices, professionals in various industries are stepping up to embrace sustainability and drive its integration into specialized fields.
Wes Alexander, a professional in the membrane technology sector, said OU Online’s Master of Science in Sustainability program was the perfect place to bridge the gap between his existing knowledge and his growing interest in sustainability.
By focusing on the energy and materials sectors, the sustainability program integrates relevant economics, social sciences, project management, and leadership studies, equipping students with the skills to develop solutions that move the world forward and preparing them to lead their organizations to a more sustainable future.
“I was looking for a program that included both engineering principles with an emphasis on chemistry in the context of sustainability,” he said. “Coming from a non-technical background and working in a technical field, I found OU Online to have the course curriculum I was looking for with the flexibility to meet the balance of work and family that I needed.”
A Perfect Fit for Real-World Applications
Alexander joined the sustainability program at OU Online because it aligns perfectly with his professional work at Membrane Specialists. Based in Ohio, the firm develops customized membrane filtration solutions to filter liquids, remove harmful or unwanted particles, or to separate out desirable materials as a valuable end product in multiple industries.
He sees this degree as an essential tool to support his company’s goals, from improving discussions with customers and team members to gaining a deeper understanding of how sustainability can shape their business practices.
“The knowledge I gain through this program is enhancing my understanding of membrane applications in the context of sustainability,” Alexander said. “It’s giving me a broader, more critical perspective that’s essential for my work.”
In his first term in the program, he has already found his coursework is directly relevant to his professional life. He said his membrane separations course, led by Professor Michele Galizia, has been a game-changer, challenging many of the concepts he frequently uses and sparking meaningful conversations with his colleagues about the concepts and terminology they use daily.
“It was encouraging to play a more integrated role in discussions that are usually led by our team,” he said. “Being from a non-technical background, the biggest professional challenge I’ve faced is overcoming imposter syndrome. Even after a number of successes, I still struggle to be confident in my position. In this program, I’ve already learned a great deal about myself, from vulnerabilities and misgivings to strengths.”
Overcoming Challenges
Of course, pursuing a master’s degree while managing a full-time job, traveling for business, and raising young children is no small feat. Alexander admits that juggling all these responsibilities has been one of the most challenging aspects of the program. However, he finds the challenge to be a motivating force.
“The biggest challenge has been putting in the time necessary to truly absorb the material and apply it to my work,” he said. “It’s a balancing act, but the flexibility of the OU Online program allows me to keep up with the coursework while also focusing on my family and business.”
He believes earning his master’s degree in sustainability will equip him with the knowledge to make more informed decisions that benefit both his company and the environment.
“A fellow student mentioned, ‘blissful ignorance can only last so long,’ and that really resonated with me,” he said. “It’s made homework assignments and discussions both intellectually stimulating and, at times, challenging.”
Alexander said the content of his courses has prompted him to reflect on his own choices and assumptions, particularly around sustainability. In particular, his Sustainability Engineering course opened new doors in how he views his company’s customer interactions.
“I feel like I’m better equipped to present investment models to our clients that justify projects both financially and environmentally,” he said. “Our company recently installed solar panels, and we’re trying to practice sustainability ourselves. The course is helping us approach these projects with a clearer understanding of how sustainability can drive both profitability and environmental benefits.”
Looking Ahead
While his academic journey is just beginning, Alexander already sees the value in the education he’s gaining. His passion for sustainability, combined with his expertise in membrane technology, positions him to make a significant impact on his company and the broader sustainability community.
“My goal is to help our company identify areas where membrane applications can support sustainability and, just as importantly, where other technologies might be more effective,” he said. “The M.S. in Sustainability program will be crucial in guiding us toward that vision.”
He is also excited about the connections he’s making through the program.
“Professor Striolo has invited me to participate in a panel that will give me the opportunity to meet with chemical engineering department, specifically those working in the membrane field,” he said. “I can see a strong effort to integrate students of various backgrounds and stimulate networking opportunities.
“I’m looking forward to seeing how the program continues to shape my thinking and my work. It’s a critical step toward helping my company become a leader in sustainable technology.”
Whether you’re already in the field of sustainability or just starting to explore its vast potential, OU’s online M.S in Sustainability program is an ideal choice for professionals who are ready to integrate sustainability into their work, industries, and communities. Learn more about how to apply at online.ou.edu.
