Ruth Guthrie

Professor of Computer Information Systems

Education:

BA Mathematics, Claremont McKenna College (1983)

MS Statistics, University of Southern California (1986)

Ph.D. Management Information Systems, Claremont Graduate School (1994)

Teaching: User Experience, Information Systems, Business Project

Tell us a little bit about You

I am a ‘Jack-of-all-trades’ (master of none). I’ve worked at Cal Poly for 25 years and have had a lot of different positions at the College and the University. I have a passion for learning something new, particularly in technology. I have the distinction of being the first woman at Claremont Graduate University to earn a PhD in Information Science. The bulk of my industry experience is with Aerojet (now Northrup Grumman), working in software test, algorithm development and program management for early warning, satellite ground stations. It was a job I loved and still miss. As a professor at Cal Poly, I’ve taught UX, Systems Analysis and Senior Project. My next project will probably be a study of UX and Mechanical Turk.

I love the outdoors and the Lakers. Currently, I’m taking Ceramics at AMOCA in Pomona.

What excites you about the MBA program?

For me, the people are the best part of our program. I love that they come from so many different industries, that they have creative ideas and they enjoy what they do. In discussions with students, I’m impressed with their varied perspectives and their ability to find solutions that consider the impact on people, planet and profit. They’re a group of people who look to the future and consider the impacts of change in many ways. The faculty in the program are very dedicated and like to create an environment where students are asked to participate and share their experiences and apply what they’ve learned.

What projects are you working on now?

During Spring 2020, I’m working with a team of students on a project for the National Wildlife Federation. Our client is the Senior Manager of K-16 Instruction. She is having us work on a Carbon Offset Calculator that is part of Eco-Schools USA. We’ll be converting an Excel based calculator to a Web based platform and integrating it with the Eco-Schools website. The project will reach over 5000 schools nation-wide.

What was your first job?

My first job was working in the Public Library in Claremont in high school. I learned to shelve books and splice film. I didn’t like having to walk home in the dark along. I finally could purchase a beat-up VW Bug. I didn’t know how to drive stick, so I would get off of work and stall that VW out all the way home. Good times!

What would your students say about you?

They would way that it’s good to have an excited, enthusiastic professor in the evening. They would say that they could take a risk in my class without a penalty.

What is your best advice for someone building their career?

Be yourself. It makes you happy and confident in your job and your career.

Don’t be afraid to jump into an opportunity when you see it. Go for it! The worst thing that can happen is that people tell you ‘no’. Keep your eyes out for new opportunities and interesting promotions.