Jonathan Britton

Jonathan Britton, Weekend MBA Class of 2025
Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.), U.S. Army | Blackhawk Helicopter Pilot | Aspiring Entrepreneur

 

How did your career evolve after starting the MBA Program at UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School?

I am currently pursuing opportunities in the Entrepreneurial ecosystem, the program has been extremely beneficial in exposing me to opportunities to explore networks, international business, Global Entrepreneurship Labs (GEL) and the Tarheel mentors in the New Ventures Discovery and Launch Courses. This exposure has focused my goal of starting or joining an existing startup.

After retiring from the Army after 24 years of service as a Lieutenant Colonel, Blackhawk Helicopter Pilot, and executive leader, I did not have a clear idea of what I wanted to do after. One of the most common issues for retiring servicemembers is finding how their skill sets translate into a civilian career, and dismissing what they “think” they know in favor of the right opportunity. One of the best aspects of the Executive MBA program has been the opportunity to connect with my amazing classmates, faculty, and the UNC network, which helped clarify my career goals and identify the most rewarding and fitting path.

 

How did UNC, Kenan-Flagler Business School, the MBA program, or MBA Career Services help you reach where you are today?

This program has truly provided a platform to take the next step in my professional career by offering amazing opportunities and world-class classmates who are all excelling in their respective fields. The entire team has truly gone above and beyond to ensure that every potential opportunity is presented and provided the tools necessary to build your network and shape the next chapter of your professional career.

 

What’s are your long-term career goals?

I aim to establish a successful venture in the Aviation space, leveraging it to create additional opportunities. I would also like to stay involved with the program, providing advice or assistance to other veterans pursuing their next chapters.

 

What’s one lesson or insight you hope every MBA student takes with them after graduation?

Take the time to build relationships with your classmates; the ability to connect is the most important part of this opportunity. The tendency will be to find a friend group and stick to it over your two years, get out of your comfort zone, and meet new people in new industries. You will be amazed by the outcomes!
Give yourself and your classmates grace throughout the program; life will still happen, but the strength of the program lies in the bonds that are built during these times. You are not in this alone!

 

Can you share a moment that stuck with you during your time in the program?

One of my favorite memories was being in the leadership class, where we had an exercise that asked us to grade ourselves in categories of life efficiencies and share our findings in breakout groups. The tendency would be to rate yourself a 9 or 10 on the scale, but instead, it provided an opportunity to share the struggles and challenges that individuals in the program underwent. The value of it was that it highlighted that the struggles were common and shared by a majority of the class. This provided a galvanizing moment that reinforced the bond of the cohort.
It has also been amazing to share and celebrate the successes of our classmates as they are promoted, pivot industries or achieve new heights in their professional journeys!

Is there anyone you would like to recognize for their support?

Special shoutouts to Angela Bond, Stephanie Clark for always going the extra mile for us! Thanks to Ted Zoeller, Al Segars, Adam Mersereau, and Patricia Harms for truly excelling and motivating us to explore new opportunities!