Continuous learning and growth: Christopher Judd (EMBA ’25)

Leading individuals and companies down the right technological path is at the heart of Christopher Judd’s story as a software developer. For over 27 years he’s been architecting and creating applications for organizations ranging from Fortune 50 companies to startups across various industries including insurance, health care, education, retail, government, manufacturing, service and transportation.

Wanting to push himself to grow even more, Christopher turned to an Executive MBA (EMBA) degree at Fisher, where he found exactly what he was looking for ― and more. He talks about how the hallmarks of the experience ultimately shaped his growth as an EMBA valedictorian and member of the Class of 2025.

Q: Why did you decide to pursue an EMBA?

A: I’ve always believed that growth comes from pushing yourself into new experiences, and for me, the EMBA program was exactly that. I was drawn to the structure and depth it offered, but what made it truly special were the cohort model and the global experiences — traveling to Silicon Valley to immerse myself in the startup culture and to Spain to see international business dynamics up close. These moments not only expanded my understanding of global markets but also allowed me to build meaningful relationships that I know will last a lifetime.

As a co-owner of Manifest Solutions, an IT consulting firm in central Ohio, I recognized I needed fresh perspectives to keep evolving as a leader. The program has already helped me apply new thinking to my business, and I’m excited about the ideas I’ll continue to bring forward. The EMBA reminded me how energizing it is to be a learner again — and how much there still is to explore.

What’s been your favorite memory from your time at Fisher?

The most impactful moment for me was during our trip to Spain, where we had an unforgettable lesson in crisis management — just a week after the devastating floods in Valencia.

We studied a case detailing the real-time events of the flood, and then, in small groups, we were assigned roles representing different levels of government. Our task was to draft and deliver a press release as if we were the actual leaders responding to the crisis. Without warning, we were rushed to a TV newsroom, put in front of studio cameras and had to present our statements live. Afterward, we watched the actual footage of how Spain’s government officials handled their communications — and to our surprise, we did a better job. The real press conferences were filled with blame-shifting between levels of government, which alienated the public so much that, in a moment of frustration, citizens pelted the King and Queen with mud when they visited the disaster site.

What made the experience more powerful was on our way back to the hotel, our bus drove through the flood-affected communities. Seeing the devastation firsthand made the case study and the exercise feel incredibly real. It was an eye-opening lesson in leadership under pressure, the importance of clear communication and the real consequences of public trust during a crisis.

How has the EMBA experience changed you or made you better?

Before the EMBA, many of my business decisions were driven by instinct and the limits of my personal experience. The past 18 months have completely broadened my perspective, giving me a much more holistic understanding of how different parts of a business interconnect and how decisions ripple across functions. I now approach challenges with a more structured and analytical mindset, leveraging tools like financial ratios, frameworks, case studies and simulations to deepen my analysis and sharpen my decision-making. I’ve developed a greater appreciation for diverse viewpoints and the value of slowing down to think strategically before taking action. The program has truly expanded both my confidence and my capability as a leader.

Who has been influential during your EMBA experience? Why?

There have been so many professors and classmates who’ve influenced me throughout my EMBA journey, but if I had to single out one person, it would be Professor Dan Oglevee. His “Entrepreneurship and Financing New Business Ventures” class gave me invaluable insights into the startup ecosystem, particularly in Silicon Valley. But what made Dan truly impactful wasn’t just the depth of his knowledge — it was the way he brought learning to life. Beyond the classroom, he led our transformative trips to Silicon Valley and Spain, which turned out to be some of the most eye-opening experiences of the program.

Dan consistently challenged me to think bigger and encouraged me to see new possibilities for my career. His guidance gave me the confidence to pursue a company board seat, something I might not have considered so soon without his influence. I’m now actively in conversations about joining a board and I credit much of that momentum to the spark Dan ignited.

What does being a Business Buckeye mean to you?

It means belonging to a global community that is not only successful but also incredibly generous and supportive. Throughout the EMBA program, I experienced firsthand how deeply connected and invested Fisher alumni are in helping the next generation. Whether it was in the classroom, where accomplished alumni returned to share their experiences and insights, or during our trips to Silicon Valley and Spain, where Fisher graduates opened doors to their personal networks, their willingness to give back made a lasting impact on me. It showed me that being a Business Buckeye isn’t just about personal achievement — it’s about lifting others as you climb and staying connected to a community that continues to inspire long after graduation.

Describe your experience as an Ohio State student in five words.

Transformative, inspirational, collaborative, immersive, personal

What are your post-graduate plans?

I plan to continue growing and evolving the IT consulting company I co-own, by applying what I’ve learned and by exploring new opportunities for expansion and innovation. I’ve been deeply inspired by my EMBA experience to broaden my impact beyond my own company. I’m actively pursuing opportunities to join the boards of other organizations, where I can contribute my experience and perspective while continuing to learn and grow as a leader.