Stacy Cook
Class of 2002, B.S. in Industrial Engineering
Class of 2003, M.S. in Industrial Engineering
Q. How did you choose your major?
A. I always loved math and science, so I knew I wanted to pursue a career in that area. My high school calculus teacher introduced me to the idea of engineering. I started classes at OU as a chemical engineering major, but by my sophomore year, I knew it was not the right engineering for me. I started researching the different areas in engineering and discovered industrial engineering. I spoke to one of the IE professors and changed majors that year.
Q. What was your biggest academic challenge while at OU? How did you overcome it?
A. My freshman year, I quickly became discouraged in some of the general engineering courses. I had to learn that there was a difference between what it took to be successful in high school and what it took to be successful in college. The key is to work harder and never be afraid to ask for help.
Q. What was your favorite class at OU?
A. My favorite class was Operations Research. The problem solving and critical thinking skills it taught me have been vital to my success as a professional in the field of industrial engineering.
Q. Who was your favorite OU professor?
A. The professors in the department of industrial engineering work very closely together to provide their students the best educational experience possible. It is too difficult to name just one of them, and it would also not be fair. The entire faculty of the department challenged me to do my best work and supported me throughout my collegiate experience.
Q. What are some study techniques, campus resources, or other factors that helped you graduate?
A. I learned to take advantage of the resources I met in the classroom; my professors and fellow students. I believe that professor office hours are the best time to get extra one-on-one help and they appreciate knowing that you are trying to succeed in their class. I also studied with the other students in my classes. One of us always grasped the subject a little better than the others. Teaching and learning from each other really helps.
Q. What organizations were you involved in at OU?
A. Pi Beta Phi Sorority, Institute of Industrial Engineers, Adopt- A- School, OU Cares, OU Cousins, and Golden Key Honor Society
Q. How did your degree help you achieve your goals?
A. Industrial Engineering taught me how to think holistically about the problems we face as professionals. It helped me to focus on the big picture, solve problems from both an engineering and a business perspective, and effectively communicate problems and their solutions.
Q. What are you doing now?
A. Industrial Engineer for the FAA Logistics Center
Q. What is your favorite aspect of your current job?
A. My current position allows me to work on a variety of projects with a diverse group of people. As a part of different project teams, I am exposed to issues varying from information technology, purchasing, supply chain management, and financial analysis. The project teams I am a part of work to make the FAA more efficient, cost effective, and the jobs of its employees easier.
Q. What are your future goals?
A. As we are taught at OU, life is truly filled with tons of possibilities. I think it is important to prioritize what you feel is really important to your life and then dedicate yourself to those endeavors. My first priorities are to my heavenly Father, my family, and my friends. Then as a professional, I hope to become a respected leader and innovator within the field of industrial engineering. It is also my desire to contribute to the health and growth of my community through my volunteer efforts within my church, Junior League, and the Cleveland County Big Brothers/Big Sisters program.
Q. What one piece of advice can you offer students seeking to graduate in four years?
A. Don’t be afraid to step back and re-evaluate what you truly want to do with your life, define your priorities, and work towards them.