Matt McCann ‘23, Data Scientist, Sealed Air

With a desire to dig into the technical and strategic aspects of data analytics, Matt McCann knew Poole College was the place to get him to where he wanted to go. But the ROI? Even better than he could have imagined.

Get to know Matt

Current role: Data Scientist, Sealed Air
Current field: Science
Current industry: Sustainable Packaging Solutions
Current location: Charlotte, NC

Program start date: January 2021
Graduation date: December 2023

Life before Jenkins

Undergraduate studies: East Carolina University, Bachelor of Science in Communications 
Pre-program work experience: 20
Pre-program roles: Analyst, Warehouse Manager, General Manager
Pre-program industries: Automotive, Electronics, Uniform Manufacturing

Why a Master of Management in Marketing Analytics?

While working on his bachelor’s degree at ECU, Matt recognized early on that he wanted to pursue an advanced education that would complement his growing career in data analysis. “As a senior data analyst at the time, I was already working with complex datasets and building predictive models, but I knew there was so much more depth to explore in the field of analytics,” he says. “The MMA program appealed to me because it offered a blend of technical rigor and business application that I was seeking. I was particularly drawn to how an MMA would amplify my practical experience with formal statistical methods and advanced analytical techniques. Turns out I really like stats. In my career, I was developing solutions for various business problems, but I wanted to understand the theoretical foundations behind these applications more deeply. The program’s focus on both the technical and strategic aspects of analytics aligned so well with my career trajectory.”

Why Jenkins? 

NC State’s reputation in both analytics and business was compelling to Matt. Working in the Research Triangle and having strong connections to major tech companies and analytics firms aligned with his career goals. “The school’s emphasis on practical, hands-on learning through real-world projects particularly appealed to me as I was already working with data in my job and wanted to immediately apply what I would learn, which I did all the time. It was amazing, I would do a project at school and immediately reap the benefits in my career. I often think about the work I did during my time in the program – even recently following up with a former professor I had in order to ask about progress on a project I was involved with that was interesting to me. I also think you can see the investments being made by the school to support the program and analytics in general. There are multiple, wonderful programs and I constantly find myself wanting to take more courses and programs at the school. They just open so many opportunities!”

“It was amazing, I would do a project at school and immediately reap the benefits in my career.”

What made it great

Matt credits his professors and advisors for making the program so impactful. “They weren’t just teaching from textbooks – they were sharing real experiences and pushing us to think differently and also striving to make personal connections,” he says. He also appreciated his “brilliant” classmates – and how their diverse backgrounds allowed them to tackle projects together while bringing unique perspectives from different industries. “Those connections have turned into real friendships and professional relationships that I still value. And honestly, what I appreciate most looking back is how the program taught me to be a continuous learner. It wasn’t just about memorizing formulas or techniques, I was shown how to adapt, research and grow my skills to be a lifelong learner at a high level. I have generally had an insatiable appetite to learn, but now I have a better understanding of how to do it.” 

“Those connections have turned into real friendships and professional relationships that I still value.”

Career impact

During the program, Matt was given more complex projects in his career. After graduating from the program, he was promoted to data scientist and given a team to manage based on the advanced skills he gained and his desire to do more. “Building on that momentum, I launched new enterprises at my work – applying the frameworks and methodologies I learned from NC State combined with my real-world experience. The ROI has been good, both in terms of career advancement and the ability to create business impact through data science. The degree opened doors I hadn’t even considered when I started, and I look forward to walking through many more doors.”

“The degree opened doors I hadn’t even considered when I started, and I look forward to walking through many more doors.”

Final thoughts

Matt recommends the MMA program to anyone in any field with an appetite for analytics. “If you want to move beyond just using tools to truly understand the ‘why’ behind the methods then this is for you. It doesn’t matter if you wash dishes or are a CTO, there is so much to gain from this experience if you put in the effort. Whether you’re aiming for leadership roles or deeper technical expertise, it’s worth the investment. I think students should take full advantage of the network you’re building. I received great advice before I started the program that the connections you make can change your career trajectory and that’s completely true. Your classmates and professors become invaluable connections who’ll challenge your thinking and open doors throughout your career.”

Get in touch

Connect with Matt McCann on LinkedIn.

Learn more

To learn more about the Master of Management, Marketing Analytics (MMA) program, including tuition, curriculum, career opportunities and more, please submit the form below.