Joe earned a BSBA from UM-St. Louis in 1992 and an MS in MIS in 1995. In addition, he earned a Doctor of Science in 2002 from Washington University in St. Louis
We sat down with Joe and asked him some questions.
Why did you decide to come to UM-St. Louis?
My father passed away and I could no longer afford to go to school away from home.
Why did you pursue a career in information systems?
The computer lab at Mizzou was next to the typewriters - poked my head inside and saw the Macintoshes. I was hooked from that second forward.
What college classes did you find most useful to your career?
Systems Design: I think that is why I like teaching it so much!
If you were in college today, what courses would you take?
As much writing and oral presentation classes I could take. In addition to any class that makes me code - - A lot!
How did you continue your education after your first degree?
After my bachelors degree, I worked in collections for a finance company and really did not like repossessing water beds, so I went back for an MBA. Decided to take a couple of extra classes and got the MSIS.
How did you find your first job?
My first job was selling ice cream in the mall. My friends dad owned it and I started on my 16th birthday.
In what non-academic activities did you participate in college that you would recommend to others (and why)?
I worked full time for all of my degrees - so I did not do much. I did participate in a lot of theatre and that really helped my presentation skills. Once you stand on stage in bright yellow tights for a Shakespeare play - nothing scares you.
How would you change your career if you had it to do all over again?
Not one little thing. I am very fortunate to have landed in a teaching position in IT. I could not have planned it any better.
What advice would you give to someone just starting in the field?
Concentrate on knowing how your roles/projects etc. impact the company. What is your value - add. If you maximize this, you will go far.
Look into your crystal ball. What do you see changing in the IS field in the future?
SaaS: Software as a service will greatly change everything. Why buy and manage when you can rent?
If you would like to ask Joe a question, you can email him at rottman at umsl.edu.
