Alumni Spotlight: Michael Hughes ’08

Michael Hughes is a Manager in Accenture’s Sustainability practice, a global consulting firm where he is focused on helping clients set sustainable visions for their organizations and identifying ways to use technology to address environmental problems. He is a member of the Class of 2008 having joined the Academy from Pendleton, IN.

Looking for a more challenging academic environment, Michael was thrilled to come to the Academy and explore his interests in science and foreign language. It became not only a second family who both challenged and supported him, but also set him on a path to where he is today. Following his time at the Academy, Michael went on to the University of Michigan and the Ross School of Business where he got a BBA in Strategy and Marketing. He was an active member of the Ross Student Government, Michigan Economics Society, and remains an active fan of the Wolverines.

Following graduation, Michael joined Accenture’s Management Consulting Development Program. He has subsequently been a part of Accenture Digital working in the mobility and Industry X.0 practices. During this time, he took an assignment with the Accenture Development Partnerships helping a nonprofit develop a digital sustainability strategy. This led him to the University of Pennsylvania, where he created the first Environmental Technology Master’s program. This program focused on using various technologies, from drones and sensors to artificial intelligence, to solve environmental challenges.

After completing his degree in the spring of 2018, he was offered a role in Accenture’s Sustainability practice, bringing together his experience in digital with a passion for sustainability. Michael works with corporations, governments, and NGOs on a wide range of sustainability opportunities. Outside of work, he enjoys hiking, running, cooking for friends and family, and traveling whenever possible.