The MBA program constantly reenergizes BOC by attracting great new talent into the company. In recognition of the quality of these people, BOC offers a unique experience in the business planning group that is unlike anything I’ve ever seen. Unlike other programs, MBAs interested in a general management career path at BOC gain immediate access to senior management and virtually every function in the company by working on very high profile projects.

When I joined BOC, I had a strong background in strategy and financial planning. BOC allowed me to learn about other aspects of the business, and then move into various business roles, including business planning for Helium, product management and planning for ASUs, and business process review, prior to my most recent assignment as president of industrial and special products in North America.

The kind of broad exposure and experience offered in business planning allows individuals to move ahead as rapidly as they are able. Individuals are judged on their overall business acumen and the ability to think strategically, rather than their knowledge about a specific aspect of the industrial gases business. I don’t think it’s a coincidence that most of BOC’s senior positions today are filled with people who have been through the MBA program.