Computing Staff Member Embarks on a New Academic Journey

Although he's just starting classes at Georgia Tech this semester, Michael Goodson is ahead of the game. He already has a favorite spot to chill and has a ton of experience navigating campus on a scooter.

To be fair, Goodson has an 18-month head start on other new students trying to build mental maps of Tech's 400+-acre campus. Goodson is a procurement coordinator at the College of Computing, and this month, he starts classes in Georgia Tech Scheller's Evening MBA program.

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Goodson, originally from Fayetteville, North Carolina, joined the College's purchasing team in August 2023. As procurement coordinator, he works closely with faculty and staff to purchase the technical equipment powering research initiatives across the College.

“Michael ensures purchases flow to Facilities for inventory documentation and TSO (Technology Services Organization) for technical oversight,” said Oliver Mahone, finance manager II and Goodson’s supervisor. “He is diligent, knowledgeable, and customer-service oriented. I think his attention to detail and follow-up are important as well.”

Being the sole point of contact for technical equipment in a bustling research environment can be demanding. However, Goodson, who earned his bachelor's degree in logistics, materials, and supply-chain management from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University in 2018, is up for the task.

"It can be very busy, but I thrive on challenging myself," Goodson said. "And I really enjoy engaging with faculty and staff from diverse backgrounds."

Pushing himself is part of what motivated Goodson to pursue an advanced degree. He says the people around him also encouraged him to choose Georgia Tech Scheller's Evening MBA program.

"My work team, family, and friends inspired me to try to get into the program. I was accepted and, accessing the tuition assistance program (TAP), I enrolled," Goodson said. "Since being accepted, I look forward to the experience and growing my knowledge and professional network."

Georgia Tech offers educational assistance to staff and faculty as part of its employee benefits program. As an employee in good standing who’s been employed with the University System of Georgia for more than six months, Goodson was eligible for a tuition waiver through TAP.

Goodson is one of 84 students accepted into the 2025 Evening MBA Program. To focus their studies and develop expertise in a specific business area, students choose from 14 MBA concentrations the program offers. These areas range from accounting to sustainability.

"I'm still considering which concentration area to pursue. Right now, Supply Chain & Operations Management, Entrepreneurship, and Leadership are my top three choices," Goodson said.

As he decides which concentration path to pursue, Goodson is taking two classes this semester: Financial & Managerial Accounting and Business Communications.

“Michael is a dedicated employee who strives to consistently improve. So, I know his tenure as a student will be successful,” said Benjamin Powell, College financial director.

Along with having a mind for procurement, logistics, and business, Goodson also has an active creative life. He's a skilled percussionist and self-taught music producer who creates and independently releases music. His work is available on Apple Music, Spotify, and other streaming services.

Goodson is also an avid reader. When the weather is nice, he enjoys reading on his Kindle at his favorite chill spot near the student center. His interests range from philosophy to fantasy. He said, "Neville Goddard and J.K. Rowling are my favorite authors, and I love the Harry Potter series."

Goodson is one of more than 150 College of Computing staff members who support the College and its five schools. Staff members are the backbone of the College. From managing operations to providing essential services, their dedication ensures the seamless delivery of education, research, and community support, making them integral to the College's success.

Photo by Terence Rushin/College of Computing