The Learning Curve is the Earning Curve

By M. Tim Weaver, ’89

Do you read more non-fiction books than fiction, prefer documentaries to dramas, love how-to videos and get lost for hours on the Internet following hyperlinks to new and interesting information? If so, you might be a lifelong learner. I know I am.

Whether it’s culture, language, customs or business practices, lifelong learning is part of our DNA as T-birds. As it turns out, it’s part of the greater ASU culture, too.

ASU President Michael Crow believes it’s the university’s responsibility to produce “master learners,” a concept that embraces the idea that self-education doesn’t stop when you receive your diploma. In fact, by the time you finish your university or graduate program, there’s a good chance that what you learned will be outdated.

You know you can’t rest on your laurels, especially with the advances in business and technology. However, knowing you need to continue learning is one thing. Knowing where to start is another. That’s where Thunderbird can help. Did you know Thunderbird Executive Education has been teaching leadership and executive development programs for more than 25 years, and has served some of the largest names in the global business arena?

Now that we’re a part of the Arizona State University Knowledge Enterprise, Thunderbird is even better able to help you, your team or your company continue your education in global business, cross-cultural knowledge, global mindset, regional regulations, the political economy, and much more. (see sidebar) Need another reason? How about

money? Your skills directly contribute to your earning power. Adopting a habit of lifelong learning can add directly to your personal bottom line. Whether you’re an experienced professional looking to augment your skills or are looking to transition to something different, Thunderbird is here to help.

But how do you evaluate potential educational programs?

One element to look for is how immediately applicable the program is to your job. Will you learn lessons you can em ploy right away? Thunderbird wants participants to return to work and be able to immediately apply what they learned. Another thing to look for is whether the faculty have both industry and academic experience. This is another area in which Thunderbird excels.

These and other tips are in our Life long Learning flipbook, available free of charge. As a T-bird, you understand the value of a global education, and this flipbook can help bring Thunderbird’s message to the wider ASU audience.

With globalism struggling to survive in this age of nationalism, the concepts and skills offered at Thunderbird go well beyond our degree programs. Come see for yourself, and make Thunderbird your strategic learning partner.

Business of Energy, Oil & Gas

It is critical for managers and executives to master the geopolitical, cultural and organizational complexities of the ever-evolving energy industry. Thunderbird leadership and tactical programs for oil & gas professionals are considered the gold standard worldwide.

International Business Acumen

Market forces, processes and policies vary widely around the globe, affecting everything from supply chains and marketing to finance, public sector engagement and risk management. Thunderbird is uniquely qualified to help you develop the international business acumen to be successful.

Global Mobility & Agility

International business requires a global mindset that transcends borders. Thunderbird specializes in teaching people how to adapt and thrive in new environments, helping you understand the cross-cultural nuances of a foreign business environment.

Leadership & Management

In a volatile, uncertain world, leading teams and managing the way forward is not for the faint of heart. Thunderbird excels in teaching people how to be more effective leaders by focusing on strategy, teams, processes, engagement, and other fundamental dynamics of the workplace.

Tim Weaver is a 1989 Thunderbird graduate and works for Thunderbird’s Executive Education program; he was the Assistant Director of Internship Education from 1993-1997.