Marlon Craig, EMTM’04

A Technologist with a Broader Vision

Looking back on his skills and outlook prior to his EMTM training, Marlon Craig says, "Before I was always mired in technology implementation. I was happy doing technology after technology. Now I don't want to do that any more."

"The EMTM experience broadened the scope of what I pay close attention to from a technology perspective. Now I have a broader perspective on which initiatives will have the most positive impact for our business, what technologies should be employed, and what human resources are needed to be successful."

As Systems Integration Manager at The Vanguard Group, Marlon feels better prepared to take on more challenging responsibilities. "With my EMTM training," he says, "I have the confidence and skills to be part of projects that are larger and broader in scope — where you need a technical perspective and competence — but with more strategy involved. Now I'm able to come to the table as a player when decisions are being made about technology that affect our entire organization."

Marlon achieved broader managerial competency, in part, through an EMTM leadership training class. A 360° feedback survey in that class taught him to integrate input from others in a more open way. Participation in a Global Immersion Trip to China also transformed Marlon's business outlook: "If you're going to take a leadership role in any company, especially from a technical perspective, you absolutely have to have it on your radar that you're competing on a global level," he says.

Marlon, who also has a BS in computer science, says his recent responsibilities at Vanguard have involved introducing new technology to the investment management firm's telephone call centers to create a more stable, responsive and robust system for voice interactions with clients.

He attributes much of his professional and personal growth in the EMTM program to his classmates. "Although EMTM has some of the best professors I've ever seen, my greatest education came from my peers during class projects because of their different perspectives and areas of expertise, and their willingness to share knowledge given that we had a common objective," says Marlon. "The team interaction is the heart and soul of the EMTM program."