Lt. Casey Reynolds anticipated smooth sailing ahead when he joined Boise State University’s online Master of Science in Organizational Performance and Workplace Learning (OPWL) program in 2020. As a member of the U.S. Coast Guard, Reynolds hoped to gain the technical skills needed to achieve his ultimate goal of impacting individual and organizational development. To accomplish this, he first would need to be selected for assignment at one of the service’s training centers.
“I knew that building expertise in performance improvement and instructional design would equip me to serve others more effectively and leave a lasting legacy within the Coast Guard,” he said.
He also needed an online program that would work well with his busy schedule.
What he didn’t anticipate was the perfect storm of the global COVID-19 pandemic, which threw a major wrench into his preferred timeline.
Navigating choppy waters
In addition to COVID-19, a permanent change of station required Reynolds to relocate — first to Texas, then to Kodiak, Alaska. The start-stop mindset can derail even the most motivated students, but Reynolds stayed the course even as his family expanded.
“Along the way, my wife and I welcomed two incredible children into our family — a source of immeasurable joy and reflection that reminded me why personal growth and resilience are so important,” he said.
The desire to finish what he started gave Reynolds the push he needed to complete the program and earn his master’s degree in 2025.
A gentle current
Now a commanding officer, Reynolds specializes in port safety and security regulatory compliance. He also oversees the inspected towing vessel and commercial fishing vessel division of the third largest bulk freight and petrochemical port complex. While his online program journey was more of a marathon than a sprint, he has no regrets.
“Looking back, every twist and turn made the journey more meaningful. The Organizational Performance and Workplace Learning program didn’t just teach me skills; it shaped my ability to adapt, to lead, and to inspire change even amid uncertainty. I am proud to be an OPWL graduate and excited for the opportunity to apply what I’ve learned to improve training, performance, and the lives of those I have the privilege to serve,” he said.
Learn more about the Organizational Performance and Workplace Learning program
Earning an online Master of Science in Organizational Performance and Workplace Learning from Boise State University can open doors to new opportunities and a brighter future — and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re exploring if an online degree is right for you or need help transferring credits, connecting with a student success coach is the perfect first step.
Ready to learn more? Attend one of our online information sessions or contact a student success coach today.