Building confidence in ambiguity: An MBA journey through CDL-Rockies
MBA Diaries | CDL-Rockies Series
Natalia Mack, ‘24 MBA
Site Manager, AHS Pharmacy Services
As part of our new CDL-Rockies alumni series, we’re highlighting graduates who took their MBA beyond the classroom through the Creative Destruction Lab–Rockies (CDL-Rockies). Natalia Mack’s experience captures what makes the program transformative: from high-stakes mentorship and real-world ambiguity to the leadership confidence that continues to shape her career today.
Can you share a stand out moment or highlight from your time in the CDL-Rockies program?
The highlight of my time in the CDL-Rockies program is clear as day — it was when our cohort traveled to Calgary for Session One. Although we were briefed on what to expect over the three days, my jaw dropped the moment the session began. Watching Founders present their ideas and be challenged and supported by Mentors was fascinating.
This is an experience you simply don’t get in a classroom. Within the first few minutes, I felt that every MBA student should participate in the CDL-Rockies program. The value it provides, professionally, academically and personally, is difficult to put into words. I would absolutely welcome the opportunity to be involved with CDL-Rockies again in the future.
Is there something that surprised you, or that you didn't expect, with the CDL-Rockies program?
What surprised me most was how quickly coachability became the deciding factor. There were strong business ideas from ventures, but if a founder wasn’t open to feedback, they were often cut. It reinforced that humility and a willingness to learn matter more than having everything figured out.
Are there any skills or insights you learned from your time in the CDL-Rockies program that are still applicable for you today?
One of the most valuable skills I gained from the CDL-Rockies program came from participating in small-group meetings with a venture I was supporting. In these sessions, I learned how to communicate critical information clearly and efficiently under pressure, and how to listen closely to subtle mentor cues. Often, the smallest suggestion can meaningfully shift a venture’s trajectory. You only realize that value if you take the time to explore the feedback.
Was there a hard moment during the program — and what helped you push through?
The hardest part of the program was balancing my studies with a young family while still getting the most out of the experience. After my first child was born, I was concerned about whether I would be able to complete the program on time. This was post-COVID, and most classes had returned to campus. With the support of my incredible spouse, we were able to make it work.
After my second child was born, the balance got a bit more complicated. I reached out to several professors to explore whether a hybrid component could work. I will never forget those who went out of their way to be flexible and creative in developing a plan together that allowed me to continue. This included submitting assignments early, attending classes virtually when appropriate, and scheduling virtual meetings to clarify course content.
Their willingness to support me helped me push through and increased my overall engagement in the program. I will always be incredibly grateful for that support.
How has your experience at the Alberta School of Business impacted your career?
The program strengthened my leadership framework and my comfort with ambiguity. It gave me the confidence to make strategic decisions without perfect information — something I rely on daily in my leadership role today.
I also built a strong network of like-minded individuals, many of whom I still connect with regularly.
Do you have any advice for future MBA students interested in applying to the CDL-Rockies program?
If you’re thinking of doing the CDL-Rockies program, don’t think — just do it. It was by far the biggest highlight of the MBA program for me.
More generally, I loved the MBA program as a whole. Like anything in life, the more you put into it, the more you get out of it. The program provides a wide range of courses that offer exposure and build competency in areas you might otherwise have no experience in. My advice would be that if you do the MBA program, map out your years so you can take the courses that will provide you the most value.
The Creative Destruction Lab–Rockies (CDL-Rockies) is a selective, mentorship-driven program where MBA students work alongside high-growth ventures to tackle real-world challenges. Applications are now open.