Problem solving looks different today than it did even a few years ago. With rapidly evolving technology, growing complexity across industries, and the rise of AI, professionals are being asked to think beyond tasks and toward systems.
For Gordon Quach, M.S. ’25, Systems Engineering, that shift happened early in his career. After stepping into a technical role and leading automation projects, he quickly realized that solving problems started with understanding how everything connects.
In this conversation with Dennise Cardona, M.A. ’23, Gordon reflects on his journey, what he learned, and how systems thinking strengthens problem solving in today’s world. Here’s a recap of that conversation.
Systems Thinking for Problem Solving
Dennise Cardona:
What was going on in your career when you decided to pursue a master’s in systems engineering?
Gordon Quach:
Back in 2021, I was early in my career after graduating from Virginia Tech in Industrial and Systems Engineering. I transitioned from strategy consulting into a technical role, leading robotic automation deployments.
At first, I felt confident. But I quickly realized how much more there was to learn—especially when it came to balancing technical depth with project management at scale.
I leaned on mentors, many of whom had ties to UMBC. That’s when I started thinking seriously about formal education in systems engineering. What drew me in was the balance. It’s a program that blends leadership and technical execution.
Overcoming Hesitation and Finding the Right Time
Dennise Cardona:
Did you have any hesitation before enrolling?
Gordon Quach:
Absolutely. The biggest question was time. How do you fit school into an already busy life?
What I realized—and I think many people can relate—is there’s never a perfect time. You have to decide when it’s right for you.
What helped me was seeing colleagues go through the program. Having a community made a big difference. I also had a friend who started before me and shared how manageable the program was for working professionals. That gave me confidence.
The Choice for Systems Engineering
Dennise Cardona:
What made you choose systems engineering, and why UMBC?
Gordon Quach:
I was deciding between an MBA, a technical degree, or something more balanced. Systems engineering gave me that middle ground.
I wasn’t ready to move fully into management, but I wanted to understand how projects and systems connect.
UMBC stood out because of its applied approach. The professors are practitioners. You’re learning from people who are actively working in the field, not just teaching theory.
The Balance
Dennise Cardona:
How did you manage work, life, and graduate school?
Gordon Quach:
It starts with self-awareness. You have to understand what season of life you’re in.
For me, consistency was key. Instead of cramming on weekends, I carved out small blocks of time each day—even just 30 minutes.
I also got creative. I’d listen to lectures while cooking or exercising. It became part of my routine instead of something separate from it.
The program is designed for working professionals, and the professors are flexible. That makes a big difference.
Problem Solving in an AI-Driven World
Dennise Cardona:
How did the program prepare you for today’s AI-driven world?
Gordon Quach:
AI is incredibly powerful. It can execute tasks faster than humans ever could.
But what the program teaches you is systems thinking—and that’s where the real advantage is.
Instead of just solving a task, you think about the bigger picture. How does this connect to the business? What are the risks? How does it scale?
AI is a tool. Systems thinking is what helps you use it effectively.
The Career Impact of Systems Thinking
Dennise Cardona:
What impact has the degree had on your career?
Gordon Quach:
First, it helps with career growth. Many companies count a master’s degree as additional experience, which can accelerate promotions.
Second, it opens new opportunities. I was able to pursue systems engineering and architecture roles because of the degree.
And third, it’s practical. You’re building real projects. In my capstone, my team designed a drone rescue system from start to finish. That’s something I can bring into my work today.
A New Way to Approach Problem Solving
Dennise Cardona:
Looking back, what does earning this degree mean to you?
Gordon Quach:
It’s a proud moment.
This program changed how I think. I no longer look at problems as isolated tasks. I think about how everything connects and how my work impacts others.
That mindset is something I’ll carry with me for the rest of my career.
Check out another podcast episode on implementing innovation in the real world to learn how UMBC students and industry partners collaborate to turn ideas into action.