Executive MBA Fuels Career Growth for Massry Alum Irene
ALBANY, N.Y. (Sept. 12, 2025) — When Michael Irene enrolled in the Weekend MBA Program for Executives at the University at Albany’s Massry School of Business, he was driven by clear goals: to sharpen his business acumen, expand his leadership skills and advance his career. Now a program manager at the NY CREATES Albany NanoTech Complex, Irene credits his graduate education with transforming how he approaches complex challenges and leads teams in a cutting-edge environment.
Irene ’18 was recently featured in the Times Union, where he discussed traveling to South Korea, Taiwan, Ireland and throughout the United States for work within the semiconductor industry, only to end up right back where he started his professional career.
A Practical MBA for Real-World Impact
Originally from New Windsor, N.Y., Irene’s educational journey began at Orange County Community College and Fairleigh Dickinson University before choosing UAlbany for his advanced degree.
“The MBA program for executives fit perfectly with my career goals,” he explained. “It was affordable, conveniently located near my work and a top 80 business school.”
In addition to Massry maintaining highly prestigious dual AACSB international accreditation in business administration and accounting, the school’s executive MBA program offers a curriculum tailored to address real-world business problems.
For Irene, the program provided case studies and practical projects that he could immediately apply to his professional responsibilities.
“This enhanced my decision-making abilities and boosted my confidence in tackling complex business issues,” he said.
The program’s emphasis on leadership and management was another vital benefit. Irene gained strategies for leading teams, managing conflicts and driving organizational change — skills that have enabled him to assume greater responsibilities and guide his team more effectively.
“Connecting with professionals from various industries broadened my perspective and created a support system for exchanging ideas and career advice,” said Irene, noting the invaluable networking opportunities offered for students enrolled in the program.
These tools have served Irene well at Albany NanoTech, where he collaborates with top engineers on innovative projects.
Beyond the Classroom
Irene also reflected on memorable moments outside the core MBA studies. One highlight was an international business trip to Lima, Peru, where he researched a local mining company. “That experience resonated with me personally because I have a strong interest in mining gold and platinum,” he said.
He also fondly recalled his Business Law instructor, Paul Morgan, whose guidance left a lasting impression. “He was a favorite instructor who challenged me to think critically,” Irene recalled.
Since graduating, Irene has remained engaged with UAlbany, sharing his insights with current students and encouraging them to fully leverage the resources Massry offers.
For those considering the MBA path, his advice is straightforward: “The Weekend MBA has been transformative for me both professionally and personally. It equips you with knowledge, skills and networks essential to excel in your career. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to advance their professional journey.”
"Massry’s Weekend MBA for Executives is especially designed for professionals who want to grow beyond their current roles," said Massry School of Business Dean Paquita Davis-Friday. "Its cohort-based structure, with classes taught by subject matter experts, is perfect for busy professionals ready to acquire the skills they need to advance. Michael’s success is a perfect of example how the program develops skills and builds networks that lead to leadership growth."