Hi forum. I'm a mechanical engineer with 6 years of experience in the automotive industry. My role is mainly focused on R&D and product development. I'm looking into pivoting towards Corporate Strategy and I'm not sure whether an MBA is the best strategy or if I should focus on trying to get some work experience there first (as I've been told that this is generally the most sensible path). Would an MBA from a top school actually make a difference?

The shift from engineering to corporate strategy is a common path, but requires careful planning. Your technical background and R&D experience provide valuable skills - analytical thinking, problem-solving, and understanding complex systems. However, strategy roles need additional capabilities in areas like financial analysis, market assessment, and business model innovation.

An MBA from a strong school can help make this transition by:
-- Building business fundamentals through core courses
-- Offering strategy specialization tracks and electives
-- Providing internship opportunities in strategy roles
-- Giving access to strategy consulting recruitment
-- Creating a network in the strategy community

The key is targeting schools with:
-- Strong strategy curriculum and faculty
-- Good placement rates into strategy roles
-- Active recruiting by strategy consulting firms
-- Relevant industry connections in your sectors of interest

Some paths to consider:

Direct transition attempt:
-- Network extensively with strategy teams
-- Take on strategic projects in current role
-- Build business case development skills
-- Consider internal strategy openings

MBA path:
-- Target M7/T15 US schools or top European programs
-- Use internship for strategy experience
-- Leverage consulting recruitment channels
-- Build relationships with strategy alumni

The MBA route can accelerate your transition by 2-3 years compared to the organic path. The degree signals your commitment to the career change and gives you the toolkit to succeed.