Posted on October 9, 2024 by Klesse College Staff
Photo of Blake Wright
OCTOBER 9, 2024 - After earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology, R. Blake Wright enrolled at UTSA Klesse College of Engineering and Integrated Design to pursue a degree in civil engineering. Throughout his time and distinguished career in the Navy, he utilized his skills in leadership, problem-solving, and strategic planning, further honing his abilities. Since graduating in 2013 with a Master’s in civil engineering, he has worked at Raba Kistner, a premier engineering consultation and program management firm. Now, Blake offers valuable advice and serves as a testament to how hard work and good planning can change your life.
Read the full interview down below.
What made you decide to attend UTSA?
The first degree I earned was a BA in Psychology from Texas A&M. After several years of not having much luck in the job market, I decided it was time to get a degree that would provide a better path to a rewarding career. My wife is from San Antonio so after some other changes in our lives, we decided to move back to San Antonio, and I enrolled in the civil engineering program at UTSA.
What did you enjoy most about your experience at UTSA?
I was about 10 years older than most other students in my classes which made me feel a little old (even though I was only 28). I did have a different attitude than I did during my first undergraduate experience. However, being in school again was very exciting and I really enjoyed being more serious in class and being rewarded with (mostly) good grades. Additionally, I was enrolled when students were allowed to vote on whether or not to add a football team, so I was glad to be able to vote “yes” to that.
How did your education at UTSA prepare you for your career?
Another reason I chose UTSA was because I knew the civil engineering program was accredited by ABET and I knew that was important for becoming a licensed engineer in Texas. The required coursework was obviously sufficient to meet ABET requirements. In addition to accreditation, I had great experiences with my professors and several of them were very good at relating the technical coursework to the real world. I was very confident I would have the necessary technical skills to succeed in my career.
Did you do an internship through UTSA and if so, how was that experience for you?
I worked part-time at Raba Kistner while I was a student and I was able to use this employment to gain credit hours as a co-op, so that was definitely beneficial.
Did you have any mentors or friendships that developed while you were a student and made a profound impact on your future?
Even though I was older than everybody else, I did make some very good friends and looked forward to seeing them each day in class. I have several friends I met at UTSA who are still in the local engineering community, and I am fortunate to see and work with them on a regular basis.
What advice would you give current students preparing to enter the workforce?
I’m sure my advice would match the advice of many other alumni. Completing your degree is a very defined goal. However, there are many other skills that are required to succeed in almost all industries. Take the time to practice those skills you are not comfortable with, such as networking, public speaking, critical decision making, etc. I know it took me a long time to feel comfortable with these skills and practice is the only way to get better unless you’re naturally gifted (which I was not).
— Klesse College Staff
