Bill Cleary Case Summary

Bill Cleary graduated from Cornell University in 1986 after earning a B.S. degree in Chemical Engineering. His first job was working as a contractor. After a few years, he discovered a passion for environmental design issues and returned to school to earn a degree in Environmental Policy. After earning the degree, he began working for the EPA with waste water management. Mr. Cleary then returned to the private sector, working for another contracting company. For the past twenty-one years he has been working for Corning Inc. and currently is a Market Development Manager. Mr. Cleary emphasized how to get the first job out of college. His experience was slightly out of the ordinary. After earning his B.S. degree, Mr. Cleary chose to race sailboats for a year, rather than immediately pursue a career. This decision, while it was what he wanted to do, made obtaining the first job slightly more difficult. The experience forced him to put more effort into the job search. He advises …show more content…
Cleary also focused on what to expect in the first job. He explained that it will not be like school; that uncertainty should be expected. In industry there will be an increase in one’s own responsibility to identify important work to complete and to find resources that can aid in solving the problems that arise. Mr. Cleary shared an anecdote to demonstrate why getting to know operators is imperative. It revealed the importance of recognizing different perspectives and developing a personal connection with coworkers. Much of the advice Mr. Cleary provided related to the role of a chemical engineering degree in industry. He promoted independent thought and providing possible solutions with every reported problem. While a degree is based in books and unrealistic problem sets, the equations and laws learned, will be necessary foundations to return to in industry. The years in college teach a way of problem solving and provide a broad context for any issue that may