Strategy, confidence, and connections in our Online MBA
This is how Rocco developed a strategic mindset, confidence – and a strong professional network – with our Online MBA. With a 20-year engineering career under his belt, Rocco Fedota is a Team Leader at Atlas Copco – the international industrial equipment and services organisation.
He already had responsibility for leading two teams – but Rocco decided to develop his career even further. Wanting to deepen his strategic thinking and leadership skills, he started to think about an MBA. However, with a full-time job – and his family’s second child on the way – he needed flexibility. Vlerick’s Online MBA was a great solution.
Study wherever life takes you
Rocco says: “The ability to set my own pace was appealing – and looking back, it was undeniably the right decision for me.
“I actually attended a virtual class at the hospital after our second kid arrived! Which shows with determination and a willingness to adapt, you can pursue your goals, no matter where you are or what the circumstances may be. I could learn at my own pace, fitting my studies around my professional and personal life.”
It wasn’t just the flexibility that worked for Rocco. The whole Online MBA experience far exceeded his expectations.
Close community and lifelong friendships
For starters, the format was more interactive and personal than he assumed it would be. He says: “In a 100% online environment, fostering a close community might seem unrealistic – but Vlerick made it seamless. There were regular team projects, virtual meetups and interactive sessions – which meant we were able to build strong professional and personal networks.
“The programme itself is very well designed. It blends theoretical knowledge and practical applications. The courses and activities are designed to push you out of your comfort zone – and encourage growth and innovation. They are comprehensive and feature real-world case studies that provide context.”
After two decades of engineering, Rocco was also blown away by the diverse perspectives of his group. He says: “The diverse cohort brought a wealth of perspectives, enriching our discussions and broadening our understanding of business practices.
Learning from diverse perspectives
“My ambitions evolved as I interacted with peers and faculty members. For example, I have developed a passion for entrepreneurship, strategy and finance. This has been inspired by the innovative ideas and success stories shared by other students.
“When I started, my focus was on enhancing my business acumen and leadership abilities. But l gained so much more. The Online MBA was a journey of discovery. I uncovered new sides of myself and developed skills that went far beyond my initial expectations.
“I have realised the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership – and this insight has profoundly impacted my approach to leadership and interpersonal relationships.”
Sharper strategic and critical thinking
One of Rocco’s highlights was the IMEx challenge – where teams work together to manage a hypothetical company. He says: “This experience improved my ability to think critically and collaborate efficiently. It’s an experience I will never forget – and my team won! Despite the challenges and stressful moments, and thanks to the dynamics of our team, it turned into one of the best learning – and life – experiences ever.”
Overall, Rocco says his Online MBA has been life changing. “The experience has been nothing short of extraordinary,” he says. “This MBA journey was not just about the classroom – it was a transformative adventure filled with challenges and milestones. It was an expedition that has prepared me for the next stages of my career and personal life.
Transformational journey
“I have evolved into a more confident and strategic thinker – and the knowledge, skills and tools I have gained will propel me forward. Being a better strategic thinker has been invaluable in both my personal and professional life – allowing me to approach challenges with a clear, strategic mindset.
“I feel more confident at navigating the business world – and I feel capable of handling complex challenges and making informed decisions. I’m also more adaptable, organised and positive – even in stressful situations.”
Rocco’s advice to anyone considering an Online MBA? “Just start – it’s a life-changing experience.”
Get in touch!
Aurelie Van de Meulebroucke
Customer Relationship Manager – Full-Time, (Global) Executive and Online MBA