May 29, 2024
Grit at Work: Gina Rogers
I am Gina Rogers, and live in Hickory, North Carolina, which has been home my entire life. I am supported by my wonderful family and for 35 years, I’ve worked at Corning Optical Communications where I have had many roles in my career, but the best by far has been in the supply chain as a regional demand planner in the fiber and cable division. Inquisitive by nature, I always want to know why and how things work.
What made you decide to complete your degree in the College of Business?
The decision to pursue a degree had been on my mind for several years and was driven by several factors. Firstly, I began seeking self-fulfillment and wanting to achieve personal goals by investing in myself. Secondly, having worked at Corning for more than three decades, I recognized the value of an education in the workplace and wanted to enhance my professional skills. Additionally, obtaining a degree is a logical step to add tools to my toolbox, especially as I intend to continue working for many years. Lastly, I wanted to set an example that anything can be achieved with hard work and determination, regardless of age.
Why ECU and the College of Business?
I knew of several colleagues at Corning who successfully pursued their degrees online with ECU while juggling full-time work and family commitments. I explored other colleges, but none compared to ECU. ECU (and the College of Business) offered flexibility with an online program, making it possible to earn a supply chain management degree while I was working full-time with a family. The application process was seamless. Tuition is affordable, and the College of Business is highly-accredited.
What have you enjoyed about being a business student?
Despite being a distance education (DE) student, the accessibility of professors and my advisor made me feel like I was attending classes in person. Throughout my journey, I’ve been fortunate to learn from exceptional professors who generously share their expertise, helping me refine my critical thinking skills and delving into real-world case studies. The opportunities to work in teams with diverse groups of students from all ages and stages of life have made attending ECU a memorable and cherished experience.
Are there any new occupational goals after your degree is completed?
I plan to continue to work for Corning in the supply chain in a leadership role.
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