From Industry to Academia: A Journey Fueled by Curiosity and Connection
Brent Burns, a 2006 graduate of the engineering management master’s (MEM) program at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, exemplifies the kind of career agility and leadership the program is designed to foster. Today, he serves as Assistant Vice President for Research Integrity at Michigan Technological University (MTU), where he also earned a PhD in Environmental and Energy Policy. His path from industry to academia, and from engineering operations to federal research policy reflects a commitment to continuous growth and a deep understanding of how technical leadership can evolve across sectors.
When Brent began the MEM program, he was working at Georgia Pacific. Midway through, he transitioned to General Dynamics. “The program made me take stock of the work I was doing,” Brent shared. “I realized I could do more—and I saw that in the people around me. My cohort was full of professionals making bold moves, and that inspired me.”
A Strategic Shift Toward Academia
Brent’s move to Michigan Tech was shaped by both professional ambition and personal priorities. With a newborn at home and a demanding travel schedule, he began looking for a role that offered greater stability. Though he didn’t land the first position he applied for at MTU, the university saw potential in his engineering background and invited him to join the alumni relations team. “They were excited about having an engineer lead alumni engagement,” Brent said. “At a tech-focused university, that made a lot of sense.”
That opportunity opened the door to a broader career in academic administration. Brent later moved into corporate relations, helping connect companies with university research initiatives. Around the same time, he began his doctoral studies. His responsibilities expanded to include federal relations, and he eventually became a registered lobbyist focused on research policy and compliance.
Today, Brent oversees federal regulatory committees and review boards for human and animal research, helping faculty navigate complex compliance requirements. “My job is to help researchers be successful by handling the regulatory side and providing guidance,” he explained.
Lessons That Endure
When asked what lessons from the MEM program have stayed with him, Brent didn’t hesitate: “It’s the people skills. You can learn the content you need for any job, but you’re really hired for how you work with others.” He also emphasized the importance of continuous improvement and efficiency, principles that have guided him through every career shift.
Brent’s advice to others?
“Solve problems for people, and the opportunities will follow.”
It’s a mindset that has opened doors throughout his career.
A Program That Delivered More Than a Degree
Brent fondly recalls the on-campus experiences as a highlight of the MEM program. He attended orientation, two residencies, and walked at graduation. “I needed the flexibility of a 100% online program, but I also valued the in-person connections made at these events.”
He also praised the diversity of the cohort—both in terms of experience and industry. “We had 20-year engineers from major companies, and I was in my 20s. Everyone was a case study. We learned from each other.” The industries represented were equally varied, including organizations like General Mills, NASA, John Deere, the US military, and many others. Brent appreciated that the program wasn’t dominated by any single sector, such as IT, but instead reflected the full spectrum of engineering leadership.
Why UW–Madison?
Brent chose the MEM program because it offered the right balance of technical and leadership content. “I didn’t want a full engineering degree, and I didn’t want an MBA. This program was the perfect fit.” He also acknowledged the prestige of UW–Madison as a factor, especially in his academic career. “Having UW–Madison on my résumé has absolutely helped.”
A Proud Tradition of Academic Leadership
Brent’s story is one of many that reflect UW–Madison’s legacy of preparing engineers not only for industry leadership but also for influential roles in higher education. His work at Michigan Tech continues that tradition—bringing engineering insight to university strategy, research integrity, and national policy.