Ramar Scales, MS in Management, Strategy and Leadership
Last Updated August 1, 2019
From serving in the military to working at big-name corporations for decades, Ramar Scales has accomplished a lot in his life. Despite reaching these milestones, he still had another on his bucket list: earn an advanced degree.
MSU’s Master’s in Management, Strategy and Leadership enabled Scales to check that off his list and so much more. As this Spartan says, “It’s never too late to learn.”
We spoke with him about his academic experience.
Q. Tell us about your background.
I was born in Alabama. Immediately after high school, I enlisted in the U.S. Army. After serving three years, I was fortunate enough to work for Kraft Foods, which is one of the largest food and beverage companies in the world. While working for Kraft, I held various leadership positions. During this time, I also earned my undergraduate degree from Fresno Pacific University in Management of Organizational Development.
After a 20-year stint with Kraft, I made the decision to join the John Deere team, where I have been working for a little over 10 years. I am currently a Global Supply Base Manager.
Q. What were the most important factors in your decision to choose MSU?
The flexibility and structure of the program. Working for a global company requires that you travel internationally. The MSL program allowed me to complete my required assignments with minimal interruptions.
Q. How will your MSU degree make a difference in your career?
The MSL will fulfill my previous burning desire to receive an advanced degree. This was on my bucket list. Sometimes it’s important to take time to do something for yourself.
Q. Do you have any future plans now that you have your degree?
One of the main reasons for going back to college was to stay as relevant as possible at John Deere and to continue to add value to the organization. The other was to improve and advance my skillsets.
Q. What surprised you most about taking an online program?
The in-depth experience of the instructors. The professors brought a wealth of experience that was completely in alignment with the subject matter. They were able to apply those learnings in an efficient and effective way in order for the students to get the most out of the class.
Q. What was your favorite class and why?
Strategic Decision Making. Approximately one year ago, I was given the task to lead a project that required a considerable amount of strategic thinking. Personally, I felt this was an opportunity and/or gap for me. The Strategic Decision Making class provided the necessary tools I needed to successfully implement the project.
Q. What was your most valuable takeaway from the program?
It’s never too late to learn.
Q. What advice would you give other students who are considering enrolling in the program?
Go for it! It will be one of the best decisions you will ever make in your life. It’s worth the commitment.
Q. Who has been your support system?
First, God! I had to send up a few prayers while going through the program, and he answered them by allowing me to walk across the stage at the Breslin Center and receive my diploma.
Second, I am truly blessed to have had the support of my lovely wife, Linda, and children, Erika and Andre. I realized that without their support, it would not have been possible to achieve my goal of receiving a Master’s in Management, Strategy and Leadership.
Q. Who or what inspires you to succeed?
My family! I have always expressed the importance of a good education to my children. It is important that I practice what I preach.
Q. What is one fun fact about you?
I am a classic car enthusiast. I really enjoy attending classic car shows and driving my 1953 Chevy.
