Providing directions at the intersection of business and technology

Mike Coffey graduated from Penn State in 1990 with a degree in Secondary English Education.  Nine years later, he took the leap into a relatively new field via the Bloomsburg University MSIT program.  This program introduced Coffey to a unique space where software technology and computer programming intersected with business. Coffey has enjoyed a satisfying career ever since, currently working as a Senior Instructional Designer and Training Consultant with Accenture. He regularly returns to campus, albeit virtually as of late, to help mentor current students.

“I’m so glad I was introduced to the program,” recalled Coffey. “The MSIT program launched me from a career in education to a career in instructional technology.”

Coffey cites his professors in the MSIT program as his inspiration and motivation to pursue his passion in the industry with grit and persistence. At the same time, they provided guidance on balancing personal and professional life and the importance of developing both personally and professionally.

“They were fantastic,” recalled Coffey. “I feel lucky coming through that program at a prime time in the industry.”

Now, Coffey brings that inspiration to current students by volunteering at the Career Intensive Boot Camp, the MSIT Career Advisory Council, and various virtual alumni panels. He says the best part about volunteering is seeing students he’s worked with attain a job they love.

“It’s so important to continue to help people start networking in the career field as a student. To do that, they need to have people to network with. It’s an awesome feeling to know you’ve helped someone get to where they want to be.”

Coffey says he especially enjoys working with students and serving as a model for what an advanced degree can provide, especially students who may face obstacles as a first generation student, or those from a low socio-economic background.

“I give that time because I know what it’s like to be a student that needs guidance on how to grow in your career,” explained Coffey. “I think it’s important for us to give back to those who are coming up behind us.”

Coffey said he was impressed with the Department of Alumni and Professional Engagement’s virtual panels that continue to bring together students and alumni in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I know from being in the field how hard it is setting up a virtual environment and coordinating everyone to be where they need to be at the right time. They made it look so easy, and it was such a seamless experience.”

Coffey’s best advice to students has been to take care of their network and their reputation as someone who can be trusted and with whom people want to work. It's something he is able to help students do.

“I’m really pleased I found the program, and that is why I want to give back,” concluded Coffey. “It meant so much to me, and others should know about it.“