MBA

Profiles

Curt Willener, MBA 2009

After graduating from Oregon State, Curt Willener found himself prepared for roles within either finance or administration. "I leaned more to management," Curt says, "but I faced a Catch-22: I wanted management experience – yet companies were looking for experienced managers." Fortunately, Weyerhauser had a management program eager for new talent. Within a few weeks, Curt was managing a crew of more than twenty-five people. In another couple of months, he became the only supervisor on the night shift – managing people who were all older and more experienced.

As a former Division I wrestler and experienced outdoorsman, Curt was able to build common ground with his crew. "I gained respect by treating them with respect and giving them a fair shake," says Curt. "You build trust by approaching situations with humility and common sense."

Problem-solving to acquire knowledge

With a couple years of hands-on experience under his belt, Curt felt ready for an MBA. "I felt it was the right thing for my long-term goals in general management," he says. Choosing HBS was easy for him: "If you want to be the best at what you do, you have to learn from the best," says Curt. "At HBS, you're not just learning from top professors, but from an entire classroom of exceptional students."

"The case method also appeals to me," Curt says. "You're not merely learning concepts. You really dive deeply into business problems to analyze them. I had been operationally focused in my work, so I didn't know what I didn't know. The cases have opened up my whole world. Now I can look into every aspect of business through multiple industries and roles."

On a personal note, Curt appreciates all the opportunities HBS provides for physical activity. "As an athlete," says Curt, "I like the discipline of working out. Here, you get a full fitness center at Shad and a variety of intramural sports, like squash and basketball. You can complement a healthy mind with a healthy body."

Exploring general management

Curt's summer internship will take him to Greensboro, North Carolina where he will take part in Danaher's General Management Leadership Development Program. "The general management focus is another reason I like HBS," Curt says. "When I graduate, I'll have the skills to run a business regardless of industry."