by The School of Business
November 25th 2025
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Before starting the MBA program, Jonathan Cogan spent six years gaining marketing and sales experience in the fast-paced sports industry. During his studies at PSU, he experienced a shift in focus: “I became much more aware of the software and technology industry and understood the massive growth potential in it.”
This newfound awareness set a bold direction for his career. After graduating in 2000, Jonathan took a leap into tech, joining IBM in Sales Development following its acquisition of Sequent Computers. Though the path was sometimes “bumpy,” the experience reflects the drive and adaptability PSU alumni cultivate - pioneering new paths and overcoming challenges. Jonathan moved on from IBM to a number of Portland area startups. He quickly navigated from being a sales representative into management roles and since 2014 has been the Commercial Sales Executive at several firms including GoodData, Jama Software and Lytics.
Building the Toolkit for Success
At PSU, every student builds a problem-solving toolkit for the future. For Jonathan, the Capstone Project stood out: “The teamwork and collaboration with my peers was great, and the business value delivered to the client really helped me gain confidence as I switched industries.”
The program’s emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, creative problem-solving, and real-world application was instrumental. Jonathan also credits the PSU community for guidance and mentorship, highlighting professors Dr. Brenner, Dr. Resnik, Dr. Hamilton, and Dean Dawson for shaping him into a more effective business professional.
Adapting to Change and Guiding the Future
Jonathan notes that the most surprising element of his career has been the pace of change in the software technology industry. “I think my PSU MBA helped me better navigate the incredible amount of change that has occurred in the industry,” he reflects.
For current PSU students, his advice is simple yet powerful: continually learn new things and find mentors to guide your career. Jonathan’s journey exemplifies PSU’s commitment to innovation, resilience, and preparing students to lead boldly in rapidly evolving industries.