MBA Student Spotlight: Joel Carlson

Why did you choose to study the Major Infrastructure Delivery MBA? 

I had been exploring MBA programmes online but was concerned that they would be too generic to be directly applicable to my work in the transport and infrastructure sectors. I was excited to see a programme that was tailored to my work and interests. In addition, I appreciated that the programme was structured to be completed in two years while including week-long in-person sessions with the cohort. One of the barriers to pursuing other MBAs was concern about having to take 1-2 years off work or needing to drag it out over a longer period of time, while having to focus after a long day at work during evening and weekend sessions.  

Describe how you’ve been able to apply the skills and knowledge you’ve learned on the course to your current role? 

In my current role, I focus on the strategic planning of infrastructure. The programme has contributed to my current role in at least two ways. It has deepened my understanding of areas downstream of my current areas of focus, which helps me better understand how that should be accounted for in planning. Also, it has given me new appreciation of different organisational models for infrastructure delivery, which has helped me take on larger assignments in my current role.  

What aspects of your studies have you enjoyed most, during your time on the MBA? 

The coursework has been well-organised and I have particularly appreciated learning from industry leaders in the field. However, I have enjoyed my interactions with my cohort and my mentor the most. They are all very passionate and knowledgeable in their areas of interest and have taken the time to provide guidance on my own career.  

How do you foresee your MBA studies helping you as you move forward in your career? 

The MBA has given me a solid grounding as I have been taking on a new consulting management position this past year, including leading larger assignments than I have in the past. Also, as Canada increasingly invests in rail and transit, the programme has given me a solid foundation of lessons learned from the UK and Europe, and where to find more information if I need it. Overall, this helps maintain my personal and professional relevancy in the infrastructure consulting sector in Canada.  

What was your experience of the teaching and level of support on this course? 

Overall, the teaching has been excellent. I was particularly surprised to find that the courses that were most reflective were those that I appreciated the most.  

What advice would you give to those thinking about studying the Major Infrastructure Delivery MBA at The Bartlett School of Sustainable Construction? 

Try to work with your employer to give yourself time to focus during the week-long sessions and on assignments. I had targeted about one day per week of working time, on average, to devote to the programme. I was able to achieve this in my first year, but it has been more challenging during the second year of the programme. It is still possible to do it while working full-time, but the enjoyment increases if you can carve out a bit more time to focus on the learning sessions and assignments.