Revenge and dishonesty: two traits of the corporate world that often make a day at the office more like a day in Melrose Place. Because of the constant threats and pressure to forget the ethics in decision-making, many business professionals let their morals take a backseat to the thirst for success. Will there ever be a remedy to bring ethics back to business? According to Mike Albe ’88, VP controller for Catapult Systems, the Aggie Honor Code is the simplest solution. On March 27, Albe spoke to students at Texas A&M University’s Mays Business School, detailing aspects of his career and emphasizing the importance of using both the personal and in-class experiences that are gained during college years.
“Your standards will be challenged by others during your professional career,” Albe told students. “Know who you are, know the standards of the Honor Code, and live by them.”
After graduating from Mays with a bachelor’s degree in accounting, Albe began his career with a top accounting firm, PricewaterhouseCoopers, where he worked until reaching senior accountant status. After leaving the public accounting sector, Albe held a number of leadership roles in companies in a range of industries. He previously held the title of controller for several retail companies, including Tejas Business Systems, where he also took on human resource duties.
During the lecture, Albe explained his role at Catapult Systems Inc, a Microsoft technology consulting company based in Austin. The company, founded by two Aggies in 1993, also has offices in San Antonio, Houston, Dallas, Tampa, and Denver, serving clients through application development, enterprise solutions and infrastructure services. Albe has served as the company’s VP controller for the past ten years, managing all aspects of Catapult’s finances and ensuring the firm’s solidarity despite the challenges of a struggling economy.
Albe gave students suggestions for entering the business world, citing the importance of punctuality and honesty both in person and on paper during an interview. The executive also focused on the Aggie Honor Code and its impact long after the college education ends. “Your standards will be challenged by others during your professional career,” said Albe. “You have to hold your ground—show a crack, and they will come after you. Know who you are, know the standards of the Honor Code, and live by them.”
Additionally, Albe touched on the importance of continued education, noting that studying doesn’t stop after graduation. “Things move at such a great pace that you will always have to study, always have to keep up with new innovations to stay on top,” he said. He advocated the importance of challenges throughout a career, saying that they are the best times to develop personal and professional skills. Finally, Albe encouraged students to find mentors and guide points that can be sought for guidance throughout their lives. “When you go into business, there are times that you won’t know what you’re going to face. The lessons that you learn at Texas A&M University prepare you both socially and intellectually to face future challenges,” he said.
