This is where it gets more complex and there is no one right answer. Stapleton believes getting an engineering degree at the University of Illinois is a great start to any career. Several engineering friends from U of I went on to law school, medical school, and other careers outside of engineering. A bachelor's degree in engineering and an MBA is a strong combination, especially in the high tech business. Grades don't need to be perfect but should show a strong work ethic.
Communication skills are vital.
Stapleton advises students to take advantage of the whole university experience, including class work and student activities. The ECE classroom experience teaches students how to be resourceful and gives them the ability to learn on their own. After a while you start to look at all problems as solvable. This learned confidence is a great strength in the business world. Engineering is a tough, rewarding experience that pushes you to be better than you ever thought.