Emery Smith, Alum

Degree: MBA (General Management), Fall 2024

Emery Smith is a Business Owner & U.S. Air Force Veteran

For Emery Smith, the UW MBA Consortium offered a unique combination of flexibility, affordability, and real-world application, making it possible to pursue a top-ranked MBA while balancing demanding military commitments.

During overseas assignments with little downtime, Emery relied on careful planning and the program’s flexibility to stay on track. Rather than putting his education on hold, he was able to continue making progress toward his degree while serving around the world.

Beyond its flexibility, the program also gave Emery the opportunity to bring his own ideas and experiences into the classroom. Through discussions, projects, and faculty feedback, Emery was able to test his thinking, challenge assumptions, and strengthen his approach to problem-solving.

"Presenting my ideas and getting feedback helped me refine my approach in ways I couldn’t have on my own."

Emery’s military background, grounded in teamwork, attention to detail, and adaptability, provided a strong foundation for MBA coursework. At the same time, the program helped him expand his perspective by connecting those experiences to business strategy, entrepreneurship, and project management concepts. By approaching each course with a focus on practical application, he was able to turn concepts into action, earning his PMP certification and building momentum toward his long-term goals.

Today, Emery is channeling both his military experience and MBA education into a new venture: developing a video game startup, Static Leap Studios. The entrepreneurial mindset he cultivated throughout the program gave him the foundation to pursue an idea he was passionate about and turn it into something tangible.

"The biggest return from the MBA was confidence in pursuing my own entrepreneurial path."

Emery’s journey highlights how the UW MBA Consortium goes beyond delivering business knowledge. Through flexibility, practical learning, and meaningful faculty engagement, students like Emery gain the skills and confidence to take the next step in their careers, wherever the path leads.