A deep dive into data analytics, powered by donors
Aaron Stieglitz is a United States Marine Corps veteran and Business Bronco who enjoys connecting the dots—be it ideas from different disciplines, or applications from different industries. He knows that learning from data is what fuels innovation, which is why he chose to major in business analytics at the Haworth College of Business.
“I originally chose WMU because of their friendliness toward veterans, as well as the business analytics program,” Aaron says. “The University and my internships have given me insight into opportunities to use my technical education to advance my career.”
Aaron has spent his time at WMU Haworth pursuing experiences that will help him succeed in the business world. With the help of scholarships and the Dean’s Discretionary Fund, he has been able to seize opportunities that allow him to use data analytics in the business world.
“I’ve been blessed with two scholarships, and they couldn’t have come at a better time,” Aaron says. “They gave me the chance to get ahead on my bills and focus on my education.”
That time has included three internships with Gentex Corporation, a technology company that develops and manufactures custom high-tech electronic products for the automotive, aerospace and commercial fire protection industries. “I have applied data analytics in each of my roles with the company and was recently offered an amazing opportunity to join Gentex full-time as a sales engineer,” Aaron says. “The experiential learning has shown me that data analytics applies to any industry and helps drive decisions.”
A significant contribution to Aaron’s growth is from his mentors who have helped him navigate the internship experience, including a fellow Bronco. “Mike Tate, a WMU alumnus and Army veteran, is the material planning manager and has mentored me since recruiting me at a WMU career fair,” Aaron says. “Angela Nadeau, the vice president of commercial management, has given me valuable opportunities to explore career paths and has invested in my professional growth.”
Many scholarships at WMU Haworth, like the ones Aaron received, are made possible through support from alumni and friends. He expressed how thankful he is to the people who choose to support students through donations. “These scholarships have given me amazing opportunities to expand my education beyond the classroom, and I’m grateful for the chance to be part of the WMU legacy.”
“Aaron is one of countless extraordinary students at WMU Haworth who have been able to take advantage of enhanced experiences thanks to the generosity of our alumni and friends,” says Dr. Satish Deshpande, dean. “Scholarships and other resources provided through the college’s emergency fund are critical for students all the time, but especially now when so many are vulnerable to the economic impact of the pandemic. I am sincerely grateful for our donors who have chosen to invest in our students’ success—every gift, no matter the size, makes a difference.”
Visit our giving page to make your year-end gift to WMU Haworth.