MSM Alumni Spotlight: Connor Gilboy

Connor Gilboy earned his undergraduate and graduate degree at the same time through the Master of Science in Management (MSM) combination program. He shares an update on his career since graduating in 2018.

Q: Tell us about yourself.

Gilboy: “My name is Connor Gilboy. I am from Land O’ Lakes, Florida – a small town outside of Tampa. I graduated in 2018 and attained both my undergraduate and master’s degrees from the University of Florida. I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology/Earth Sciences and a Master of Science degree in Management (MSM combination program). While at the University of Florida I played football as a student athlete and also worked many jobs at local bars and restaurants. I currently live in Houston, Texas, and work for a global technology company with a focus on energy and the energy transition.”

Q: What are your best memories from Warrington?

Gilboy: “I had a great group of professors while I was at Warrington from 2016 to 2018. One memory that stands out was Dr. Limon’s professional communication course. I learned many valuable skills in that course that have prepared me well for life after university.

“At the time, the entire grade for his course was based on a single presentation that we gave at the end of the semester. This was super intimidating, but it forced me to pay attention to the material and to practice. In the ‘real world,’ oftentimes you only get one shot to make a good impression, so this course helped me prepare for that reality. I’m very grateful for the opportunity to have taken that course, and I know that the skills I learned there will continue to benefit me throughout my career.”

Q: Tell us about your journey after graduation.

Gilboy: “I had a small gap from when I graduated to when I started work, so I traveled the world for a year with the money I made from bartending in college. Then, I moved to Houston to work for SLB (formerly Schlumberger) – a global technology company with a focus on energy and energy transition. Working with SLB, I have had the opportunity to work in multiple regions throughout the world including the Middle East, Europe and South America. I enjoy working with the technology that SLB creates because it is a unique way to blend my technical knowledge with my business skills that I have gained from my studies at Warrington.”

Q: How has your education benefitted you in your current role?

Gilboy: “I now work as a Key Account Manager in Houston, where I help clients solve both their technical and business challenges. My master’s degree allows me to see the big picture and understand how technical solutions can impact a business’s bottom line.

“In my previous role as a petrotechnical engineer, I gained a deep understanding of the technical aspects of our technology offerings. This knowledge has been invaluable in my current role, as it allows me to speak to clients in their language and understand their technical needs.

“Businesses are increasingly looking for professionals who can bridge the gap between technology and business. By having a strong understanding of both sides, I can provide my clients with technical solutions that make sense for their business.”

Q: Any other cool facts you’d like to share?

Gilboy: “I started my first business with my brother (also a Gator) when I was 18. Being from Florida, I enjoy water sports like surfing, fishing and freediving. I also have a passion for traveling. I am 28 years old and I have been to 28 countries in my life. The goal is to add one new country every year. This year, number 29 will be Fiji!

“Go Gators!”