Alumni Spotlight
Greg Barker
by: Reagan Young, student PR intern
Greg Barker received his Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a concentration in Journalism in 1988 from Mississippi State University.
The Meridian, Miss., native now resides in Birmingham, Ala., serving as the president of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama.
Barker daily works with the talented professionals on their team to enable inclusive economic growth in Alabama by supporting entrepreneurs, conducting targeted economic development research and business intelligence and working to attract targeted companies.
Barker gained an understanding and passion for economic development from his first job after graduating when he served as the Director of Communication for the Chamber of Commerce in Meridian, Miss. Barker has worked at the local level with the chambers of commerce, the corporate level with Alabama Power and the state level with his current position at EDPA.
In regard to offering advice for undergraduate students in search for a job, Barker shares some very helpful tips.
“I think undergraduates need to consider the following:
a) Determine the type(s) of careers they want to pursue and work to gain relevant experience before they graduate (internships, summer work. . .even if unpaid)
b) Before an actual interview, learn as much as you can about the position, the company/organization, and the leaders at the company/organization
c) Digital communication continues to emerge, so ensure you know as much as possible about these mediums and the related techniques
d) Have an idea about the value you bring to the position based on what you know
e) Know what follow-up questions you want to ask.”
Barker re-emphasized the importance of an applicant knowing about the company they are applying for a job at.
“The more the applicant knows about the position and the company/organization, the more constructive the conversation/interview will be for everyone.”
Favorite memory as a communication student?
Working on local television broadcasts in the 80s.
Favorite communication class you took and why?
I can't remember the exact class title, but it was a television production class where we developed and executed a children's television program for the local public television station. It was a great hands-on experience working to develop a television program. I gained technical skills (running video/audio equipment, editing tape, etc.), writing skills, collaboration skills with other communication colleagues, and even some on-air experience.
Most valuable lesson learned from the communication department?
Never bury the lead. There is so much data and information now, which means the key is gathering as much relevant data/information and you can, then determine what is the most important information that will enable you to develop actionable strategies.
Favorite communication professor and why?
I hate to single out one. I learned a lot from numerous communication professors. The common trait that I appreciated most (in retrospect) was the tough-minded professors that held me accountable and cared enough to push me to be my best. This sounds too general, but I can remember receiving some tough messages that I needed to hear.