Education Inspiration

Father, Son Attend UT Tyler MBA Program Together

An only child, Blaine Pace of Gilmer appreciates being extremely close to his family, having been homeschooled by his mother and enjoying road trips with his parents and grandparents. A new UT Tyler Soules College of Business alumnus, he graduated in May and decided to continue his education at the University.

Bruce Pace, after seeing his son excel and reap the benefits of a UT Tyler education, ultimately decided to join him. The pair both entered the UT Tyler MBA program this fall and will graduate together in 2022.

“My wife, Dawn, and I were both impressed with UT Tyler early on when Blaine began his undergraduate work,” Bruce said. “We quickly realized that the professors were all high-caliber people who were clearly dedicated to educating their students and truly cultivating and nurturing them, setting them up for success and preparing them for their futures. 

“Now, as a student myself, I have been impressed with all aspects of the Soules College of Business. From the course offerings, to the interaction with professors – both online and in person – to the networking that has already occurred with fellow students, it has already been a great experience,” he said.

Blaine agreed, adding that they both will remember this unique opportunity for a lifetime.

"It’s an absolutely incredible blessing to be able to spend this time with my dad as we both pursue our MBAs at UT Tyler,” said Blaine, who in July began working for the Union Grove Independent School District as a technology assistant and the UIL computer science and computer applications coach. “Being able to study together and bounce questions off of one another has been invaluable so far in this program.”

Passionate about education, Blaine’s current position at the school district allows him to develop a true understanding of both sides of the public school system, particularly the perspectives of both the students and faculty. At UT Tyler, Blaine appreciates the ways in which the University’s faculty and curriculum are preparing him for a successful career in academia.

“Each class has helped broaden and strengthen my knowledge and skill sets to allow me to determine and pursue my future endeavors,” Blaine said. “UT Tyler has helped me develop professionally, personally and academically. The level of dedication and support from the faculty is also phenomenal. I have truly felt encouraged and motivated during my educational career at UT Tyler and the Soules College of Business.”

In the everchanging business environment, Bruce said UT Tyler’s program is also helping him build additional capabilities, which will enhance his corporate agility and make him a stronger asset to his employer of 17 years – Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals.

“I discovered that a member of my company’s highest senior leadership actually completed his MBA at UT Tyler,” said Bruce, who serves healthcare providers and hospitals as an executive respiratory business specialist. “His endorsements of the MBA program, coupled with the success my son has had, made it even easier to choose pursuing my MBA at UT Tyler to fortify my management acumen and to expand my breadth of knowledge.”

In their first semester, the pair intentionally enrolled in the same classes in hybrid fashion, with two online courses and one face-to-face course. Bruce added that they specifically chose a traditional class to have the UT Tyler on-campus experience together.

“Often, the conversations around our coursework have become family discussions,” Bruce said. “It has truly been so fun to work alongside each other to be the best we can be in our classes.”

“UT Tyler has already given me so much,” Blaine added. “Now, this program has afforded me and my dad a new opportunity to bond in new and exciting ways.”

Blaine graduated with a UT Tyler bachelor’s degree in information technology. After completing his MBA, he plans to become a computer science professor and begin a software development company with the ultimate goal of improving access to technology in education and the quality of pre-college computer science education.

They both relish time with family and their two dogs. Bruce enjoys reading and watching movies, while Blaine’s interests include computer programming, theater and creative writing.

#SoulesCOB