When Brian Precious left his consulting position at James Martin & Associates in Chicago to pursue an Illinois MBA, he knew he wanted to make a difference. As an involved student, he took advantage of all the College of Business and the University of Illinois had to offer. This included an internship with the Chancellor’s Office, where he assisted small, start-up businesses located in the university’s Research Park. This experience led him, and two of his fellow Illinois MBA classmates, to become entrepreneurs and start their own consulting business.

Although his consulting company was successful, Brian discovered that he needed to give more than just advice – he wanted to contribute to the long-term success of a company. So, when SmartSpark Energy Systems, a start-up company that designs alternative energy devices, offered him the Director of Marketing position, he knew this would be a good fit. Brian now has the opportunity to apply what he learned in the classroom and from his prior work experience to promote a company and products that will benefit the community and ultimately improve the environment.

Brian continues to be committed to the Urbana-Champaign community, the university and the Illinois MBA. He never tires of telling prospective students about all the opportunities and advantages of living and working in the area. He proudly provides tours of the EnterpriseWorks facility, serves as a mentor and resource for students interested in entrepreneurship, and readily admits he made a great decision in leaving his previous position to attend the Illinois MBA.