Elevating Professional Careers Through Mount Mercy’s Flexible MBA Program

For Aaron Meis ‘25, 26’ MBA, associate director of AI at Collins Aerospace, continuing his education wasn’t about starting over—it was about finally accomplishing a goal he once thought might never be possible.

After overcoming a series of health challenges, Aaron found himself reflecting on what the next chapter of his life could look like. Around the same time, he was watching another important milestone unfold—his children graduating from college.

“Seeing them step into their futures stirred something in me,” Aaron said. “They gave me the courage I needed.”

That moment helped Aaron act on a dream he had carried for a long time: finishing his education.

Undergrad Online

Aaron’s journey at Mount Mercy began with the university’s fully online Liberal Studies program. Flexibility was essential for him to be able to juggle work, family, and life.

“The program was there when I needed it,” Aaron said. “The flexibility made all the difference.”

He especially enjoyed coursework in religion and programming, appreciating both the ethical exploration and technical challenge. One standout experience was helping develop an early mobile app for Mount Mercy Athletics—an opportunity that blended classroom learning with real-world application. 

The online format also allowed him to move forward at his own pace while continuing his professional career at Collins Aerospace. As he progressed, Aaron began to understand that while his career is in a rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence, his long-term opportunities would require a formal degree.

“My career had reached a ceiling, largely because I didn’t have a degree,” he said.

Rather than accept that limitation, Aaron decided to keep going.

“My grandfather always told me that education is something no one can ever take from you,” he said. “What you learn in life stays with you forever.”

Designed for Working Professionals

Earning his undergraduate degree from Mount Mercy was the first step, but Aaron knew he wanted to keep building on that momentum.

In his role at Collins Aerospace, Aaron spends his days working with teams that use artificial intelligence to deliver real business value. To continue growing as a leader in a rapidly evolving field, he decided to pursue his MBA at Mount Mercy.

“Life gets more complex as you get older,” he said. “Balancing work, family, and school required real adjustment.”

Aaron says the format of Mount Mercy’s MBA program made pursuing another degree possible. The program’s evening schedule allowed him to continue working full-time and stay present with his family.

“At no point did I feel like my education was jeopardizing my career or my momentum at work. The program is designed to be accessible for professionals.” —Aaron Meis '25, '26 MBA

“At no point did I feel like my education was jeopardizing my career or my momentum at work,” he said. “The program is designed to be accessible for professionals.”

Support from faculty and advisors also played an important role in Aaron’s experience. Adjunct professor Sheri Zevenbergen left a particularly strong impression.

“Sheri brought her passion for the subject into the classroom,” Aaron said. “It was very inspiring and contagious.”

Aaron also credits academic advisor Rogan Stoops for helping guide him through the program and supporting him along the path to graduation.

Beyond the Classroom

Through coursework in leadership, strategy, and decision-making, Aaron has been able to connect his technical work with broader organizational goals.

“The coursework has really expanded the way I think about my work,” he said. “It helps you see the bigger picture—how day-to-day responsibilities connect to larger economic and strategic forces.”

That perspective is already shaping his professional goals. Aaron recently began applying to Collins Aerospace’s highly competitive Fellows program, which recognizes and develops technical leaders within the company.

“Putting together the application required me to reflect on where I’ve been, where I am today, and where I want to go,” Aaron said. “That kind of strategic thinking is something the program really cultivates.”

Aaron expects to graduate with his MBA in 2026, a milestone he describes as deeply meaningful.

“For me, this degree is personal,” he said. “There was a time when I thought it might be impossible.”

For other professionals considering returning to school, Aaron offers this piece of advice: “Ask yourself—why not?”