More than two decades after graduating from Thomas College, Justin Michaud ’02 has built a successful career in business and technology for the K-12 public sector.
When Justin attempted to enter the job market in 2002, he relied on the Professional and Career Development Office to help him identify job opportunities, fine-tune his resume, and build his interview skills.
“Their guidance gave me the confidence and tools I needed to successfully navigate the job search and take the next step in my career,” said Justin.
Shortly after graduating and working in the private sector, he moved to Alaska to join the Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District’s (MSBSD) Information Technology Department.
“Transitioning into public education wasn’t something I had initially planned, but I quickly found it rewarding to support schools and students through IT,” he said.
While working there, he got his MBA in Technology Management and continued to grow within the IT Department in various roles. In 2019, he earned his Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.
In 2025, he took on a new challenge by moving out of the IT department and becoming the school district’s Senior Manager, Business & Operations.
“This position is allowing me to apply the skills and knowledge I’ve developed over the years to support the district in a wider capacity, helping improve operations and contribute to the success of students and staff across the district,” he said.
“I’m most proud of the growth and progression I’ve experienced throughout my career. I’ve been able to step outside of my comfort zone, take on new challenges, and continue learning along the way. Earning my Project Management Professional (PMP) certification was an important milestone, and stepping outside my comfort zone has allowed me to grow both personally and professionally. These experiences, along with adapting to changes over the years, have helped me take on more leadership and responsibility. I’m also proud of how I’ve been able to apply my skills to support public education—helping improve systems, operations, and outcomes that ultimately benefit students, staff, and the community,” said Justin.
“Thomas College provided a supportive environment that helped me grow both personally and professionally. I made meaningful connections with students, staff, and faculty who encouraged me along the way. Those relationships, along with the resources and opportunities Thomas offered, gave me the confidence and tools to launch my career,” he said. “I transferred to Thomas College after earning two associate degrees from Northern Maine Technical College, and the transition was a great experience that helped me further my education. Growing up in a small town in Aroostook County, I wasn’t exactly sure what I wanted to do, but Thomas College provided the guidance and support I needed to find my path. That foundation helped lead me to where I am today, and I’ve been fortunate to build a meaningful career working in the K-12 public sector.”
This story was originally published in the Spring/Summer 2025 Thomas Magazine. Read the full magazine.