Thought Leadership
Thought Leadership
Dr. Robert K. McMahan is president of Kettering University and a nationally recognized voice on the future of higher education, workforce readiness, and the impact of artificial intelligence on professional formation. He leads one of the country’s most distinctive STEM institutions—an industry-embedded university where cooperative education functions as the operating system, not a supplement.
Widely cited in national media, McMahan focuses on how universities must adapt to a post-industrial economy by aligning learning, work, and technological change. His work emphasizes higher education’s role in the broader talent supply chain and the necessity of integrating theory, practice, and real consequence.
McMahan brings an uncommon perspective shaped by a career spanning advanced scientific research, academic leadership, venture capital, industry R&D, and public service. A trained astrophysicist with a parallel background in art history, he operates at the intersection of discovery, design, capital, and public policy. His core thesis is direct: institutions that successfully integrate theory, practice, and consequence will define the next era of higher education.
Featured Podcast Appearances
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Why Isn't Kettering More Popular - Future U Podcast
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Why Colleges Should Think of Employers as Their Customers - Future U Podcast
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Why Colleges Can't Learn Everything They Need On Campuses - Future U Podcast
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What Is Keeping More Universities From Doing Co-op Programs - Future U Podcast
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Lightening Round with Robert McMahan - Future U Podcast
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How Kettering University's Co-op Model Differs Than Others - Future U Podcast
Featured News Articles
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Drawing on both professional and personal experience, Dr. McMahan shares his perspective on choosing a college—urging students to look beyond campus feel and focus on outcomes that truly matter after graduation.
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As the conversation around the value of college intensifies, Dr. Robert McMahan offers a perspective rooted in preparing students not just to succeed today—but to adapt and lead in the future.
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As institutions rethink how they prepare students for the future, Dr. McMahan's perspective stands out—showcasing a model where classroom learning and real-world experience work hand in hand.
"The university cannot simulate the pressures, rhythms, and accountability of real work no matter how sophisticated its curriculum. Industry cannot cultivate the theoretical depth and adaptive thinking that will separate tomorrow’s leaders from tomorrow’s technicians. Neither institution, operating alone, produces what the economy requires."
Dr. Robert K. McMahan, President, Kettering University
Latest Kettering University Podcasts
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A Different Way to College: Ray Ravaglia and Sheila Bauer Discuss the Little-Known Criteria for a Successful College Career -- and Which Colleges Offer the Best Opportunities for Success
Ray Ravaglia and Sheila Bauer discuss the criteria most predictive of student success in college and after, the schools which provide the richest environments for success, and what prospective students should look for when selecting a college.
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Chasing the Future of Agriculture: Jon chase discusses his long career at John Deere
Jon Chase VP of Marketing & Shared Services for John Deere's Agriculture & Turf Business in North America. Jon has had a fascinating career moving from engineering to management, and his thoughts on the agricultural sector, career management and leadership represent interesting insights and extraordinary wisdom, particularly for those starting out in their careers.
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Doing Well by Doing Good: Tony Bedard Leads Frontier Co-op
Tony Bedard is CEO of Frontier Co-op, purveyors of certified organic herbs, spices, seasonings, teas, and essential oils. Frontier is a model of a responsible and enlightened business, not only growing from 10 million to 250 million over 30 years, but doing so by using a three pillared philosophy of doing well by doing good: supporting its supplier communities around the world, supporting its local community and supporting its workers.
