Methodist University Students Achieve Global Recognition in Business Strategy Competition

Fayetteville, NC – Methodist University’s own Steven Downs and Cole Hart have clinched a top spot in the MikesBikes World Champs, an esteemed international business strategy competition. The senior duo from the Reeves School of Business stood out among global competitors, securing a fourth-place finish in the event conducted by New Zealand’s SmartSims Inc.

The competition, which simulates the complex operations of a bicycle manufacturing company, required participants to make strategic business decisions across various departments including finance, production, and marketing. Downs and Hart, majoring in Business Administration and Marketing, utilized their academic learning from MU to navigate through the intricate rounds of the competition.

Downs reflected on their preparation for the competition, “We put a lot of effort into this so I’m very happy that it paid off. It was an incredible learning experience that built off of what we were learning in the classroom at MU. We put our knowledge into practice.”

Hart added, “This competition helped us learn how to research competitors, determine their strategies, and find new ways to become profitable. It forces you to think outside of the box.”

Associate Professor of Management, Michael Wayland, highlighted the significance of their achievement in relation to their future careers. “They’re able to demonstrate their business acumen, which is exactly what Fortune 500 companies are looking for. I’m so proud of them,” he stated.

The invitation to participate in the MikesBikes World Champs came following their exemplary performance in the MikesBikes Business Simulation as part of MU’s Business Strategy class last fall. Methodist University has incorporated this simulation into its curriculum since the 2008-09 academic year, illustrating its long-standing commitment to practical business education.

Other Methodist University student groups also performed impressively, with three teams ranking in the 90th percentile or higher globally. The groups “Big Bike Energy,” “Best Bikes Inc.,” and “Pedal Pushers” demonstrated exceptional strategic prowess in the competitive simulation.

Additionally, MU celebrates the inclusion of two teams in the SmartSims Worldwide All-Time Hall of Fame, showcasing the enduring legacy of its students in the business strategy arena.

The Reeves School of Business at Methodist University, accredited by the ACBSP, prides itself on preparing students for successful careers in various business disciplines. For more information on their programs and admissions, prospective students can visit the Reeves School of Business webpage.

Kres Thomas, FayToday News
kresthomas@faytoday.com