Students from the MSB der FH Münster - Münster School of Business in Germany joined Chambers MBA students for a cross-cultural learning experience that brought an international perspective to West Virginia. The experience included a global case competition, a visit to STOCKMEIER Urethanes’ facility in Clarksburg, and activities that gave students opportunities to collaborate and learn beyond the classroom.
The case competition saw students form six cross-cultural teams to develop a new German-inspired restaurant concept in Morgantown. The teams presented their ideas, including market analyses and strategic recommendations, giving students an opportunity to apply business concepts while collaborating with peers from another country.
The students also toured STOCKMEIER Urethanes’ facility in Clarksburg, where they explored how a global manufacturing company operates in West Virginia and applies business concepts across industries, from manufacturing and product development to the financial and supply chain decisions that support its business.
The facility visit featured a behind-the-scenes tour, a panel discussion, and a lab demonstration. During the panel, students learned about STOCKMEIER Urethanes’ products, marketing, company culture, collaboration across departments, and career paths.
The hands-on lab demonstration involving polyurethane foams and adhesives gave students a closer look at the science behind the company’s products.
Chambers Associate Professor Dr. James Field, who accompanied the MBA students and helped plan the visit, said experiences like this help broaden students’ horizons.
“It's a great opportunity to see the application of what they're learning in the classroom, especially at a company that has grown from a startup to one that now has an international presence,” said Dr. Field.
STOCKMEIER Urethanes USA also expressed its support for the collaboration on its website.
“STOCKMEIER Urethanes USA is proud to support the next generation of business leaders by opening its doors to students and providing opportunities to experience manufacturing, innovation, and collaboration firsthand.”
Dr. Field said the partnership began with Jennifer Burkart, a Münster faculty member originally from Morgantown. Each summer, Burkart brings a group of students to the United States for a study abroad experience focused on English-language communication, presentations, and cross-cultural learning.
Dr. Field added that support from Chambers and the MBA program helps make international learning experiences like this possible.
The visit also included a World Cup viewing party, a Black Bears game, and other activities in Morgantown, giving students opportunities to connect beyond the classroom and facility tour.
-WVU-
JC 9/23/26
MEDIA CONTACT:
Jacob Comer
Senior Communications Specialist
John Chambers College of Business and Economics
jrcomer@mail.wvu.edu
Photo Credit: Dr. James Field
