Alumni Spotlight - Carlton Gipson

Carlton Gipson knew from the start of his college experience that he wanted to be a business major and pursue a bachelor’s degree. He chose EvCC because of its great reputation and affordability. “My time at EvCC helped build an academic foundation that enabled me to become successful at a higher level,” he says. Carlton went on to graduate from Western Washington University with a degree in business administration. He worked in the banking industry and at Boeing before realizing he wanted a career with a better fit, moving to a position with the City of Everett, where he spent 32 years as an administrator in several departments. Now retired, Carlton offers advice to current students: “Use your time wisely at EvCC to prepare for your next step, whether it be in pursuit of an advanced degree or that dream position you desire.”

What is your current occupation/career?

I am currently retired, but before I retired, I spent my first eight years after graduating from college with a local bank. I then changed careers and went to work at Boeing. It wasn't long before I decided that was not the career that was the best fit for me, so I got a position with the City of Everett and spent 32 years there as an administrator in several different departments.

How did you choose EvCC?

It was an easy process for me to choose EvCC. The school had a great reputation, it was a local school and it was an affordable school. It also helped that a number of my friends were planning on attending the school as well.

Do you think your time at EvCC helped you pursue your current career?

My time at EvCC helped my pursue my career.  I knew from the start that I wanted to be a business major and that I wanted to pursue a bachelors degree.  My time at EvCC helped me build  an academic foundation that would help me be successful at a higher level.  I had some holes in my educational experience that needed to be filled and EvCC helped me do that.

What did you do after you left or graduated from EvCC?

After I left EvCC, I transferred to Western Washington State College (as it was known at the time). There I majored in business administration and received my bachelor's degree.

What words of advice would you give to current EvCC students?

Higher education isn't free, so use your time wisely at EvCC to prepare you for that next step, whether it be in pursuit of an advanced degree or that dream position you have your heart set on.