Student Spotlight

Lorenzo Brisco

Gulfport, MS

Bridging the Gap from Military Service to Civilian Leadership

For Lorenzo Brisco (ASCJ '25, ASIT '24, ASHS '23, MSM '23, MBA '22, BBA '18), education was a steppingstone for leveraging his military leadership skills into a successful civilian career. While serving in the U.S. Navy, Lorenzo wanted a program that aligned with his goals, honored his military experience, and provided the flexibility to balance education with his professional responsibilities. Referred by his childhood best friend and Navy colleague, Corey Valentine, Lorenzo discovered the University of Management and Technology (UMT).

Lorenzo's decision to choose UMT was driven by UMT's reputation for supporting military professionals and veterans in achieving their educational goals. “UMT's credit transfer policies recognized the skills I gained during my 22 years in the Navy, and their practical, career-focused curriculum aligned with my professional goals,” he explained. The flexibility of UMT's online programs allowed Lorenzo to continue his education without disrupting his military service or personal commitments. He also appreciated the supportive environment UMT offered to veterans. “Their military-friendly policies made it easier to progress toward my degree and feel valued for my experiences.”

Balancing coursework with the demands of active-duty service was no small task. “Frequent travel and a demanding workload made it difficult to maintain a consistent study schedule,” Lorenzo recalled. But with UMT's flexible format and his own time-management skills, homed in the Navy, he found a way to stay on track. “I set clear goals, prioritized tasks, and stayed disciplined.”

For Lorenzo, UMT provided a direct link between academic theory and professional practice. “I applied project management principles learned in class to streamline operational procedures in a team setting, improving efficiency and mission readiness,” he explains. His studies also enriched his leadership development, “I focused on leadership development through case studies and projects, which helped me mentor junior team members effectively,” he shares.

Completing his degrees at UMT has had a significant impact on Lorenzo's life and career. “My Navy leadership and operational skills, combined with my academic credentials, have positioned me for strategic leadership roles in the civilian sectors,” he said. “The degrees have made me a more competitive candidate in the job market, but more importantly, it's given me the confidence to pursue new opportunities,” Lorenzo reflected.

Lorenzo is deeply appreciative of his time at UMT. “I want to thank UMT for providing an education that respects the unique needs of military professionals while equipping us for success. They've given me the confidence to take my career to the next level.”

"UMT provided me with the tools, flexibility, and support to successfully transition from military service to civilian leadership. Their recognition of my Navy experience and career-focused education gave me the confidence to pursue new opportunities and build a future I'm proud of."


Back to all Student Stories