Finance
Biography
My name is Ford McLaughlin, and I am a proud member of the 2028 Heath Integrated Business and Engineering Program (Heath IBEP) cohort. Three core strengths that have helped me succeed professionally are my work ethic, people skills, and communication abilities. I have always been a high achiever and goal-oriented individual, which drives me to work tirelessly toward achieving my objectives. When I set a goal for myself, I am committed to doing everything in my power to accomplish it. For me, failure is not a loss but an opportunity to grow and improve—fueling my determination to work even harder.
I also consider myself skilled at connecting with others. As a down-to-earth person, I find common ground with almost everyone I meet. I enjoy getting to know people and learning about their interests. While I may be a bit reserved at first, this quality allows me to ensure that my words carry meaning and purpose. This trait has enhanced my ability to communicate effectively and made me an active listener. Lastly, I take pride in my strong communication skills. In group settings, I always share my perspective while actively seeking input from others to find the best solution collaboratively.
I joined Heath IBEP because I recognized the hard-working characteristics shared by its members and was drawn to the program’s unique mentorship opportunities. These resources are unparalleled on campus, and the cohort-based classes foster meaningful connections with peers. Building relationships within my cohort is incredibly important to me, and by the time I graduate, I hope to call many of my cohort members close friends.
Looking ahead, I aspire to become a highly successful commercial real estate agent. This summer, I took a significant step toward that goal by earning my real estate license and working part-time at Wallace Real Estate in Knoxville. By starting my career in residential real estate, I aim to gain valuable industry experience while building connections with as many people as possible. I am excited to continue learning and growing through Heath IBEP while forming relationships that will last a lifetime.
