Kevin Flowers had spent over a decade excelling as a chemical engineer, moving through roles in process and project engineering. But as he advanced in his career, he recognized a gap between his technical expertise and the leadership skills required to reach his ultimate goal of plant management. The question wasn’t whether to pursue an MBA, but rather, is an MBA worth it for an engineer already established in their field?
For Kevin, the answer became clear: “At some point, engineers are required to lead groups and supervise others. Having a business or management degree is a major advantage.” Today, as an engineering manager in the chemical industry, Kevin credits Northern Kentucky University’s affordable online MBA program with elevating his leadership capabilities and helping him secure a promotion at a new company.
Why an Engineer Chose to Pursue an MBA
Kevin’s decision emerged from years of hands-on experience. “I’m a chemical engineer and spent over 10 years as a process and project engineer. As I advanced, I realized management was critical, and an MBA gave me a huge advantage in engineering leadership,” he explained. Technical skills alone wouldn’t be enough to lead teams, manage budgets, oversee supply chains, or make strategic business decisions. An MBA for engineering management would provide that foundation.
Finding the Right Program
When researching programs, Kevin needed flexibility to accommodate his full-time work schedule and family commitments, yet wanted rigorous, quality education. NKU emerged as the obvious choice.
“My choice was driven by familiarity; my kids attended NKU and had great experiences. That positive feedback made NKU the right fit for me,” Kevin shares. Beyond personal recommendations, he was impressed by NKU’s value proposition. “NKU offers great value compared to similar MBA programs. The reputation, proximity, and price made it an easy decision.”
The flexible MBA program structure aligned perfectly with his needs. “The program is set up so you can live your life, spend time with family, and still earn your degree. That flexibility was incredible,” he notes.
Customizing His MBA for Maximum Impact
One of NKU’s standout features is the ability to combine two specialized elective stacks, which are focused concentration areas that allow students to tailor their degree. Kevin strategically selected leadership, supply chain, and finance to support his career goals.
“I chose the leadership stack because it’s the most applicable skill for my management career,” Kevin explains. “My custom stack included supply chain and finance, critical areas for the chemical industry and managing budgets.” These choices proved invaluable, as he constantly applies this knowledge to operational budgets, capital projects, and supply chain challenges.
Kevin discovered how business concepts could reframe his existing engineering knowledge. “Risk assessment was a concept I already knew for safety, but NKU taught me how to apply it to project planning and financial risk.”
Real-World Impact
Initially, Kevin had reservations about online collaboration, but NKU quickly dispelled those concerns. “Group projects online taught me how to collaborate virtually, something I’d never done before. That skill is priceless,” he reflects. Faculty support made a lasting impression, particularly Dr. Spatero s, whose detailed feedback and continued connection after graduation spoke volumes about NKU’s commitment to students.
For Kevin, the ultimate measure of MBA ROI is tangible career results. “The skills I learned allowed me to take a new position at a different company, a promotion that wouldn’t have happened without the MBA,” he explains. Beyond the promotion, he constantly applies his MBA knowledge. “I use my MBA knowledge more than my engineering books. It’s crazy how often I reference what I learned.”
The confidence boost proved equally valuable. “This degree gave me confidence. I always thought I was a good leader, but NKU helped me hone those skills,” Kevin shares. When asked to describe NKU’s online MBA in one word, Kevin chose “convenience,” noting that professors were always available and responsive.
Looking back, Kevin’s assessment is unequivocal: “This was one of the best moves of my life. The knowledge improves confidence and performance every day.”
Is an MBA Worth It? Why NKU’s Online MBA Delivers Exceptional Value
Kevin’s story exemplifies why Northern Kentucky University’s flexible MBA programs continue attracting working professionals, particularly engineers seeking to transition into management. If you’re asking yourself whether an MBA is worth it or exploring MBA for working professionals options, here’s what makes NKU stand out.
Ranked among the “Best Online MBA Programs” by U.S. News & World Report in 2025, NKU’s program delivers AACSB-accredited education at just $17,913 in total tuition, making it one of the most affordable online MBA programs available. With no GMAT required and the ability to finish in as few as 12 months, you can accelerate your career without the barriers that often delay graduate education.
The 100% online format provides the flexibility essential for earning an MBA while working full time. Whether you’re an engineer seeking MBA engineering management expertise or a professional in any field looking to advance, you can complete coursework on your schedule from anywhere. The program allows you to combine two specialized elective stacks in areas like leadership, finance, supply chain, marketing, and data analytics, creating a customized degree aligned with your specific career path.
For engineers specifically, NKU’s MBA addresses the critical gap between technical expertise and business leadership. The curriculum covers operational budgets, supply chain management, risk assessment, strategic planning, and team leadership—exactly the skills required as you move from individual contributor to management roles. This combination directly impacts an engineer with MBA salary potential and opens doors to senior leadership positions.
The MBA ROI extends beyond immediate promotions. As Kevin discovered, the knowledge gained becomes a permanent part of your professional toolkit, referenced and applied daily. When employers offer tuition reimbursement, the financial equation becomes even more compelling, often making the program nearly cost-free while delivering career-long benefits.
Whether you’re wondering should I get an MBA as an engineer, exploring part-time MBA online options, or simply asking is a part-time MBA worth it, NKU’s program offers the flexibility, affordability, quality, and practical application that working professionals need. Visit Northern Kentucky University online to learn more and start your application today. Your next career breakthrough awaits.
