Kyle Blank, Minnesota Carlson MBA Class of 2027
Age: 30
Hometown: Alexandria, MN
Undergraduate Institution and Major: North Dakota State University | B.S. Civil Engineering Pre-MBA
Pre-MBA Work Experience: I was a civil engineer prior to starting my MBA and had the opportunity to work in the commercial, residential, renewable energy and parks and recreation industries. I’ve worked at Kimley-Horn, Alliant Engineering, Atwell and Emmons Olivier Resources before starting my MBA.
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I really enjoyed my career as a civil engineer. I learned a great deal and had the opportunity to work alongside extremely talented teams. I realized that I wanted to be closer to the strategic and decision-making aspects of the work I was contributing to and to have a more direct impact on outcomes. Pursuing an MBA now allows me to build on my engineering and technical foundation while gaining the tools needed to make a broader, more meaningful impact through the work I do.
Why did you choose Minnesota Carlson? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I have lived in the Twin Cities since 2017 and have planted my roots here. I first looked at Minnesota Carlson due to the geographical benefit but quickly realized that there was nowhere I wanted to be but here. The admissions team helped me tremendously through the application process by answering questions and ensuing that the MBA program was a great fit for my career goals and aspirations. All and all, I chose Minnesota Carlson because of the people within its walls. The students, faculty, and staff have been instrumental in my growth both as a professional and as a person from day one.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
I believe my most valuable contribution to fellow classmates of 2027 has been my ability to amplify and build others up so we can grow together as a team. Any MBA program comes with its share of challenges and stress, but our class is at its best when we are supporting one another and cultivating a space for collaboration. I strive to foster an environment where everyone can feel encouraged to share ideas, ask questions, and lean into growth, knowing they have the support of those around them. I aim to help strengthen our class and contribute to a more connected cohort.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I really enjoy playing golf, especially here in Minnesota and have played golf in all 12 months of the year here. I even have a hole-in-one in December!
Post-MBA career interests:
Medical Device Product and Brand Management
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
If I was starting the application process again, I would absolutely lean on the admissions team with questions about the program. They answered all my questions but more importantly, they immediately showcased the positive culture of Minnesota Carlson.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
One thing I would do differently is start the application process earlier. I applied in the final round, and in hindsight, beginning the process sooner would have allowed more time for reflection, preparation and refinement.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The application process was intensive and took time. One part I would have skipped if I could was the video question and answer that allowed for two minutes of preparation and then two minutes to answer. What helped me get through this was the understanding that this wasn’t a test for a “perfect” answer but rather to understand how I process an interview question and how that would translate to my interactions with classmates and professor.
What is your initial impression of the Minnesota Carlson students/culture/community?
My initial impression of the Minnesota Carlson community has been nothing short of impressed and honored. I am impressed by how quickly the faculty and staff make students feel connected to the program and with each other. I am honored to be a part of this community and want to contribute to its success by being that support network for next year’s first year students.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I wanted to get involved with student organizations and have joined MBA association as the first-year Wellness Engagement and Belonging (W.E.B.) Representative, Medical Industry Leadership Institute Student Association (MILIsa), Finance and Investment Club, Outdoor Adventure Club and Carlson 4 Community (C4C). I wanted to get involved with these organizations because they give back to the Carlson and the larger Twin Cities Metro communities.
What is one thing you have learned about Minnesota Carlson that has surprised you?
Through the first semester of the program, we are encouraged to connect with industry professionals and often they are with Carlson alumni. I was surprised and excited to see how many alumni asked about the professors and shared stories of when they had them in class. The continued connection the alumni have with Minnesota Carlson and the community has been great to be a part of and I can’t wait to connect with and support future students like me in the years to come!
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am most excited to continue growing closer to my fellow Class of 2027 classmates. We are an incredible group of people, and learning from one another during the first semester both inside and outside the classroom has been especially meaningful. I’m excited to deepen those relationships, continue learning from diverse perspectives, and grow together as we navigate the rest of our MBA journey.
