Sara Campbell is an Engineering Operations Executive at GE Aerospace and a member of the MIT EMBA Class of 2025. After 13 years at the company, Sara is recognized as an organizational leader with effective communication and interpersonal skills that has a strong track record of leading teams to success.
Why did you decide to pursue an MBA? What stood out to you about the MIT EMBA as you were doing research?
After a decade building a robust technical foundation at GE Aerospace, I found myself drawn towards organizational leadership. I recognized a pivotal opportunity to refine my strategic business acumen and elevate the quality of executive discussions. A trusted peer suggested an MBA, and upon researching, the MIT Executive MBA (EMBA) immediately resonated. The Action Learning and unparalleled ecosystem promised the perfect platform for my growth. The on-campus informational session experience solidified my decision, and the proximity to Boston offered crucial work-life balance. It was, without a doubt, the catalyst I needed to sharpen my leadership edge.
Sara Campbell, EMBA '25
What were your goals before the program? Have they changed now that you're towards the end of your journey?
My initial goal was to strategically broaden my perspective, leveraging my GE experience to absorb diverse industry insights and translate them into actionable strategies for my team. While that core objective remains, the program's impact has far exceeded my initial expectations. It wasn't just about acquiring new frameworks or skills; it was about refining my leadership lens and gaining profound self-awareness. I discovered a passion for sharing these learnings, not just professionally, but personally. This journey has been a powerful fusion of strategic development and personal evolution, sharpening my edge in unexpected ways.
How are you applying course materials into your work at GE Aerospace?
The MIT EMBA's promise of immediate, practical application has been a game-changer at GE Aerospace. Each week, I've translated course concepts into actionable strategies, from implementing refined frameworks to enhancing team communication. Beyond tools, the program has equipped me with a strategic lens, enabling me to dissect complex challenges and articulate solutions with clarity and precision. This has been instrumental in aligning my team and driving organizational change, fostering a culture of innovation and strategic thinking.
How has the MIT EMBA community influenced your experience? Do you have any examples of an impactful interaction?
The MIT EMBA community has been a strategic asset and a profound source of personal transformation. Surrounded by exceptional minds and deeply empathetic individuals, I've experienced a level of collaborative support that extends far beyond the classroom. When my daughter faced health challenges early in the program, my classmates, coaches, professors all had unwavering support, demonstrating the true power of collective community. Additionally, diverse perspectives shared by my cohort challenged my strategic thinking. The tactical counsel and profound empathy I received, particularly during a challenging health period and after sharing my fireside chat, reinforced my belief in the transformative power of this community.
The mission of MIT Sloan is in part “to develop principled, innovative leaders who improve the world.” How has the program helped you to drive change in your industry and organization?
The MIT Sloan mission resonates deeply with my personal values. The program has not just reinforced my courage and commitment to ethical leadership, but it has equipped me with the strategic tools to drive meaningful change. I now see my business and my world through a new lens, recognizing opportunities to foster innovation and create a more positive impact. I view my experience as planting seeds of change, nurturing them with the knowledge and network I've gained, to cultivate a lasting legacy of positive transformation within my organization and beyond.
What piece of advice would you give to a prospective student?
Embrace curiosity as your compass, courage as your fuel, and vulnerability as your strength. This program is a journey of profound self-discovery, not just academic achievement. Be open to challenging your assumptions, learning from diverse perspectives, and creating a space where everyone can grow. Don't just absorb knowledge; actively seek to apply it, experiment, and iterate. This is your opportunity to not only transform your career, but to transform yourself.
