Brendan Kohler’s journey at Wichita State University is a testament to the power of applied learning experiences and the impact of a well-rounded education. As a proud double alumnus, earning his Bachelor’s degree in 2021 and his Master’s degree in 2022 in Sport Management, he has taken the knowledge and skills acquired at WSU and applied them to his career as a Topps Senior Production Coordinator at Fanatics. His story highlights the significance of hands-on learning, mentorship, and diverse educational opportunities in shaping a professional path.

Reflecting on his time in the sport management program at WSU, Brendan credits the wide range of available courses for his preparedness in the sports industry. He notes that learning about different sectors within the field has equipped him with the flexibility to pursue various career paths. “The sport management program at Wichita State helped me immensely in my professional and personal development. One thing that stands out to me looking back on it is the wide range of classes available for students to take. I learned a lot about many sectors of the sport industry in those classes, and with that knowledge, I feel like I would now be well prepared for many different jobs in the sports industry.”

His graduate studies were particularly transformative, offering not just professional growth but also personal development. One course that had a lasting impact on him was Leadership & Socialization in Sport, which broadened his understanding of leadership styles and strategies. “That class opened my eyes to many different perspectives and strategies regarding leadership. I oversee some of my coworkers at my current job at Fanatics, and I have utilized many of those leadership strategies. Many of those were valuable lessons that also transfer over to my everyday life outside of work.”

Beyond the classroom, Brendan immersed himself in applied learning experiences that solidified his expertise. His role as a Video Coordination and Analytics Intern for the WSU baseball team in 2020 and 2021, followed by a Graduate Assistant position in the same role in 2022, provided invaluable real-world experience. Working closely with the coaching staff allowed him to develop a strong work ethic and refine his technical skills. “Being at the stadium everyday and working alongside the coaching staff was a privilege. Eric Wedge, Mike Pelfrey, Mike Sirianni, Loren Hibbs, Easton Herring and Conor Behrens all had a huge impact on my professional growth. I developed many skills that apply to my current job at Fanatics. My daily work in Excel and with baseball equipment at my current job [at Fantatics] was already second nature to me the second I started because of my time working with WSU baseball. I now feel completely prepared to work in the college/professional baseball industry if I decide to go back to it in the future.”

His applied learning extended beyond WSU, as he took on the role of Data Operations Coordinator for the MLB Draft League, working with the Mahoning Valley Scrappers in Ohio during the summer of 2021. This internship provided a unique opportunity to delve into professional scouting and network with seasoned baseball professionals. “I learned a lot about professional scouting during my time there and got to pick the brains of many great baseball minds. I grew up and still am a big Kansas City Royals fan, so working alongside coaches and former Royals Coco Crisp and Ron Mahay was a very cool experience for me and something I’ll never forget.”

Brendan’s commitment to applied learning extends to community service. During his college years, he served as an Operations Volunteer at the Wichita Open PGA (Korn Ferry Tour) Golf Tournament and contributed to the local community through his involvement in the Stand Down event in downtown Wichita. Through this initiative, he helped provide food, clothing, and health screenings to homeless individuals and at-risk veterans.

His journey from student to professional underscores the value of experiential learning in bridging the gap between education and career. By seizing the opportunities WSU had to offer—both in the classroom and beyond—Brendan has positioned himself as a knowledgeable and adaptable professional in the sports industry. His experiences serve as a testament to the power of applied learning.

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Wichita State's applied learning program gives students hands-on, paid experience with industry partners, helping them build careers before graduation.

For more information, contact the Shocker Career Accelerator at (316) 978-3688, SCA@wichita.edu, or visit wichita.edu/Career. You can also stop by in person at the Marcus Welcome Center, Suite 139, on the Wichita State campus.