Join the University of Michigan School of Information Future of Work Theme Year keynote talk by Ben Marchionna, a forward-thinking tech, strategy, and operations leader with a proven history of building collaborative, entrepreneurial-minded teams to tackle the world’s toughest innovation challenges. As Michigan’s first-ever Chief Innovation Ecosystem Officer, Ben oversees and directs the holistic development, growth, and sustainability of the rapidly growing Michigan innovation economy.
The Future of Work in Michigan
Michigan’s historical and current industrial and economic conditions play a critical role in attracting and retaining talent within the state. The automotive industry has historically anchored Michigan’s economy; this industrial backbone fostered a skilled workforce, robust supply chains, and extensive infrastructure. In recent years, Michigan has further diversified its economic portfolio by investing heavily in technology, healthcare, and renewable energy sectors, further broadening job opportunities. However, attracting and retaining talent in Michigan has been challenging due to economic perceptions tied to declining manufacturing industries, a trend of “brain drain,” and the urban-rural divide in job opportunities and amenities. Mr. Marchionna will address how UMSI students can learn about and tackle these challenges while leveraging the state’s advantages to help Michigan evolve as a prime destination for a diverse and dynamic workforce.
About Mr. Marchionna:
Ben Marchionna is a visionary leader in tech, strategy, and operations with an exceptional track record of fostering collaborative, entrepreneurial teams to tackle the world’s toughest innovation challenges. In his current role as Michigan’s first Chief Innovation Ecosystem Officer, Ben champions the holistic development of Michigan’s burgeoning innovation economy. His prior achievements include spearheading technology and business development at Electra.aero, a sophisticated startup developing hybrid-electric aircraft; leading global operations at SkySpecs, where he scaled autonomous drones and AI solutions across 26 countries; and stretching the art of the possible in national security innovation at Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works. Mr. Marchionna’s academic credentials include a B.S.E. in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Michigan and an M.S. in Product Development Engineering from the University of Southern California.
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