Meet Joshua Tan, MTM Class of 2016

Joshua is based in the Bay Area and is a graduate of the inaugural MTM Class of 2016 and is currently a Strategic Solutions Engineer at Varonis, the leading Data Security Posture Management platform. He was previously a Go-to-market Customer Success Leader and Senior Director at Accelo, a professional service automation software startup. Joshua’s first exposure to the world of SaaS and product market validation was through his MTM practicum field project with AppFolio at UCSB.

Q: Why did you want to join the MTM program?

A: I wanted to break into tech after working as a business analyst in the slow-paced automotive industry. The MTM program's focus on product market validation, building MVPs, and the lean startup mentality aligned perfectly with my goals. I was eager to leverage my background in Managerial Economics and gain a deeper understanding of high-tech industries.

Q: Was the idea of staying in California attractive to you?

A: Yes, staying in California, particularly Santa Barbara, was a major draw. I loved the focus on tech and the opportunity to live in such a beautiful place. UCSB was a top choice for me since high school, so it felt like a full-circle moment to attend both UC Davis and UCSB.

Q: What were some highlights of the MTM program?

A: Highlights include field trips to companies like Medtronic and Spire, Thursday networking happy hours, and our unofficial class trip to CES in Vegas. The field project with AppFolio was invaluable for hands-on experience, and the Santa Barbara lifestyle was an added bonus with plenty of outdoor activities and a vibrant student community.

Q: What did it mean to have this sense of camaraderie with the whole cohort over the course of the program?

A: The camaraderie was crucial. Despite being together for less than a year, we bonded quickly through team projects and social activities. These connections have lasted, with some cohort members becoming lifelong friends and professional contacts.

Q: How did MTM set you up for your different career positions?

A: MTM gave me the skills to succeed at Accelo, where I applied what I learned, especially in product market validation and human capital management. These skills helped me rise to Director and transition to my current role as a Strategic Solutions Engineer at Varonis, leveraging everything from project management to networking strategies taught in MTM. 

Q: How did MTM help you go after your current role?

A: MTM taught me effective networking and career search strategies, which were crucial after an unexpected job change. By leveraging my network and applying my experience, I secured my current role at Varonis, where I continue to use the skills I developed in MTM 

Q: What would you say to a student who has applied to a few different tech programs and is looking to enroll, but isn't entirely convinced about MTM yet?

A: MTM offers invaluable lessons from industry-experienced professors and strong networking opportunities. Balance academics with professional connections, and leverage UCSB’s unique location to maximize your experience. MTM prepares you to apply what you learn in real-world scenarios.

Q: Anything else we haven't mentioned that you would like to cover?

A: Use your field project to gain experience and find a company that values your growth. Rejections happen, but persistence pays off. MTM equips you with the skills to adapt and succeed in tech, whether you start as a product associate or move up from customer success. The key is to learn the product holistically and apply your skills effectively.

Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshdtan/

Learn more about the Master of Technology Management: tmp.ucsb.edu/mtm