Grit at Work: Toby Barbour

I’m Toby Barbour, and I am a regional vice president of sales for Skillsoft. I manage a team of 17 sales representatives that cover North America. I have a daughter who is a junior majoring in communications at NCSU and is on track to graduate next year.  I enjoy spending time with friends, family and my partner, Carrie. I stay active by playing softball, golf and lifting weights.

What made you decide to complete your degree in the College of Business?

I began my college career at ECU in 1987 and attended through 1991.  At the time, I was unsure of what I wanted to “do with my life when I grew up” and decided to sit out a semester or two, work and decide what to do. 

As often happens, life got in the way.  Close to 20 years after last attending college, I re-enrolled and started the journey to finish my degree. Once again, life grew hectic, and I had to put finishing my degree on the back burner.  When my daughter began college, I promised myself that I would graduate before she did. Mission accomplished (May 24). 

Why ECU and the College of Business?

I valued the experiences and education I received previously and could not think of anywhere else I would want to finish my degree. Also, ECU ranked 6th nationally in distance education confirmed my choice to finish my degree at ECU.

What have you enjoyed about being an online student in the College of Business?

The flexibility and convenience of attending college online allowed me to complete assignments early when possible while working around my schedule. Also, the professors have been great to interact with and have made learning in a virtual environment easier than I expected.         

Are there any new occupational goals after your degree is completed?

While I don’t have any occupational goals resulting from finishing my degree, I hope to use my journey and experience as an example to coworkers/subordinates that they can accomplish big goals, regardless of age.         

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