Student Success
Daniel Wooten
Kennewick, WA
M.S. in Operations Management
"Earning my degree in operations management will provide a greater depth of knowledge to become an expert at my craft."
To become an asset to his company and strengthen his own expertise, Dan Wooten knew he needed to advance his education. Pursuing a Master of Science in Operations Management at the University of Arkansas was the logical next step.
“I currently work in operations for a smaller privately held firm,” Wooten said. “Earning my degree in operations management will provide a greater depth of knowledge to become an expert at my craft. My goal is to become and remain an invaluable asset that provides competitive advantage to an organization.”
As one of the many working professionals in this program, Wooten works full time while studying. After he completes the program, he hopes to apply learned principles and acquired tools in his job, he said.
“I aspire to one day have the tools, knowledge and leadership abilities to become a director of operations,” Wooten said. “I also hope to develop into a greater asset to my company, becoming ever more indispensable and efficient. I feel this will help increase my value as a manager and a member of society.”
Wooten was especially drawn to online as it allowed him to earn his degree while working full time, he said.
“In my line of work, I need to have the flexibility afforded with online studies; the University of Arkansas provided just that,” Wooten said. “I appreciate the breadth and depth of knowledge of the professors. Many of them have strong academic resumes combined with real world experience. I also appreciate the level of technology embraced by the school to make our learning experience seamless and effective. My experience in the program has been excellent and rewarding.”
Wooten is one of 23 people to receive the W.E. Manning Memorial Scholarship for online U of A students for the 2020-2021 academic year. He plans to continue his career in agriculture and food production with a focus on innovations in technology and productivity.
“Receiving this scholarship is a huge blessing for myself and my family,” Wooten said. “It will help me to work toward my dream of earning a master’s degree and better serve those around me.”
