Alum Spotlight: Daryl Richardson

Daryl was originally from Evanston. He earned his first degree in Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering Technology at Indiana State University, pursued his degree at Northwestern University afterwards, and now works as a Manager-Chicago Business in ComEd. In his spare time, he loves to play poker, and sometimes he would also stop by Bob Chinn’s Crab House for seafood! We asked him to share a little bit of his MEM experience with us:

Favorite Class or Teacher:

My two favorite classes were Negotiations for Engineers and Leadership & Organizational Behavior with Dr. Berger. The skills that I learned in these classes help me transition my leadership style from managing direct reports as an Engineering Manager at ComEd, to collaborating and building consensus with my peers in my role as Board President of my town’s Board of Education.

What made you decide to pursue a MEM degree?

When I was searching for a graduate program I was torn between a MBA and a Master’s in a technical field. I wanted a program that would help develop leadership skills and enhance my business acumen. I came with a friend to a MEM open house and fell in love with the program because it felt like a MBA program but taught from a technical aspect.

 How has your MEM experience contributed to your career path?

Northwestern University’s McCormick School of Engineering has a strong reputation of high academic standards and is well respected in the industry. Having the MEM degree on my resume validates my commitment to developing myself to advance my career.

 Word of advice to future students:

Not to let technology inhibit your ability to build relationships with your classmates. Some of your best learning may come from listening to the challenges that your classmates face in the work place. Take the time to schedule face to face meetings to network with your peers.