Jim Calko '14

Management Consultant, The Gunter Group

Masters of Business Administration

"After completing my MBA at the University of Portland, I landed my current role as a Management Consultant with the Gunter Group. I love what I do: helping clients solve problems from the scoping phase through implementation to project closure. It’s a dynamic work environment that requires my education and soft skills to navigate various obstacles while ensuring a successful delivery.

Looking back on my time at UP, connecting with peers and faculty was extremely helpful in preparing for my next steps. Amy Cavanaugh helped me with my resume and connected me with Pete Rooks (former Director for Leadership in the Franz Center for Leadership, Entrepreneurship & Innovation) who also had a military background and was able to provide further professional guidance. One of the best tips I’ve ever received was to network, be persistent and look for the right fit. You don’t want to be told “you’re hired,” only to dread going to work because you don’t like the team or your skill set is not the perfect match."