John Nicklow, President, Florida Institute of Technology
In an interview with Invest:, John Nicklow, President of the Florida Institute of Technology, discussed Florida Tech’s contribution to regional workforce development, factors driving Greater Orlando’s emergence as a tech hub, and how the institution’s identity is shaped by its commitment to providing a technology-focused education across all disciplines.
Since you became president in 2023, how has the Florida Institute of Technology continued to grow?
I am excited about the direction we are heading here at Florida Tech. Over the past several months, we have witnessed remarkable growth and achievements that truly reflect our commitment to impactful education in technology and STEM fields.
For example, our enrollment numbers speak volumes about the success of our institution. Last fall, we welcomed a record-breaking class of 1,440 students, marking the largest incoming cohort in our history. This milestone is a testament to our dedication to providing top-notch education to aspiring engineers, scientists, entrepreneurs, and innovators. Our total enrollment now stands at nearly 10,000 students, representing 52 countries and 45 states, fostering a diverse and dynamic community where ideas flourish.
In addition to our enrollment achievements, I am incredibly proud of our recent recognition by The Wall Street Journal. In their annual rankings of the Top 400 universities in the United States, we were honored to be ranked sixth nationwide for delivering a high-quality student experience. This accolade holds special significance as it’s based on feedback directly from our alumni and current students, reaffirming the value and impact of our educational programs.
Our strategic plan, Forward Together, Boundless Potential, sets the stage for our continued growth and success over the next five to seven years. Developed through a collaborative effort involving over 40 internal and external stakeholders, this dynamic plan outlines our goals, tactics, and key performance indicators. It’s not just a static document; it’s a living, evolving roadmap that adapts to the changing needs of our community and the demands of the market.
How does Florida Tech distinguish itself from other private research universities, given its deep historic roots in Central Florida?
Florida Tech’s unique founding alongside NASA in 1958 sets us apart from other private research universities. Two months after NASA’s inception, Florida Tech was founded to meet the urgent need for a specialized institution to train and upskill employees for the burgeoning space industry. This close connection to the space race has shaped our identity and ethos, infusing a tech-focused approach into every facet of our education.
Our unwavering commitment to providing a technology-focused education across all disciplines sets us apart. Whether majoring in psychology, business, or engineering, you will experience a curriculum that prioritizes cutting-edge technology and equips you with the skills needed to excel in today’s dynamic job market.
According to a recent Georgetown University Center for Higher Education report, by 2031, 72% of jobs in the United States will require post-secondary education or training. For STEM jobs, this percentage rises even higher. At Florida Tech, STEM education isn’t just a part of what we do; it’s our primary focus. It permeates every aspect of our academic programs, ensuring our graduates are well-prepared to thrive in the rapidly evolving landscape of technology-driven industries.
How do you envision the future of education in light of global and technological advances?
I firmly believe that the future of education will be deeply intertwined with technology, permeating every aspect of learning regardless of the field or discipline. Furthermore, the education landscape has undergone significant changes, particularly in recent years with the advent of the pandemic. Previously, online learning was often viewed as a separate entity from traditional campus-based education. However, we now recognize that the average student will likely engage with online courses, even while attending classes on campus. As such, it’s essential to ensure that our educational offerings are accessible in a hybrid format, allowing students to transition between online and in-person learning experiences seamlessly.
By leveraging both asynchronous and synchronous learning opportunities, we can ensure that students have access to state-of-the-art technology and resources. This approach enables us to facilitate knowledge sharing and creation, fostering an environment where students can thrive and succeed in an increasingly digital world.
How does Florida Tech contribute to regional workforce development and the employability of its graduates?
Addressing the workforce challenges in our region requires deliberate effort, and one key aspect is ensuring that we produce graduates who are highly appealing to employers. In practice, this means equipping students with the latest state-of-the-art knowledge and technology skills while instilling a strong sense of community and a commitment to valuing team diversity. Additionally, every student participates in a team Capstone design project, fostering collaboration and teamwork across disciplines. Thus, employers consistently recognize the exceptional quality of our graduates, whether they are in aerospace, psychology, or engineering. This reputation for excellence is a testament to our intentional focus on workforce development.
Another crucial element is building robust partnerships with industry leaders and business owners. As part of our strategic plan, I have prioritized connecting with key stakeholders to understand their needs better and explore opportunities for collaboration. By actively engaging with businesses in the region and beyond, we can ensure that our programs are aligned with industry demands and provide valuable resources to support their growth and success.
Additionally, we have launched the Brevard Boundless Opportunity Program, which offers qualifying students from Brevard County enhanced affordability and accessibility to a Florida Tech education. This initiative benefits students and strengthens our region’s talent pipeline, as students are more likely to stay and contribute to the local workforce.
What are the factors behind Greater Orlando’s emergence as a budding tech hub?
With a wealth of educational institutions and partners providing top talent within Greater Orlando, there is a steady supply of skilled individuals who are likely to remain in the area. This region holds immense potential to impact countless lives positively through technological innovation and economic growth. As active participants in these initiatives, we see ourselves not only as located in this region but also as integral champions for its bright future as the impact of our activities extends beyond Melbourne and Florida Tech by encompassing the entire high-tech corridor in Greater Orlando and Central Florida. This is why I can confidently say that Central Florida is a fantastic place to conduct business.
Additionally, the region offers favorable financial conditions for businesses, making it an attractive destination. Moreover, the allure of Florida’s climate, family-friendly environment, and diverse activities further enhance its appeal. From entertainment to culinary delights, Central Florida truly offers something for everyone, making it an exceptional opportunity for us to thrive.
What challenges do educational institutions face in today’s economic landscape, and what strategies do you have to address them?
In some circles, the relevance and value of a college degree in today’s economic landscape are questioned; however, at our institution, we emphasize the promotion of critical thinking skills, particularly within high-demand fields like engineering and science. We recognize the importance of addressing these questions by effectively communicating the value of higher education.
Education has the power to enrich lives, families, and communities. It’s a transformative force that can change the trajectory of individuals’ lives and have a ripple effect on their families and communities. We believe that everyone, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to receive an education and pursue a career that can significantly impact their future.
As institutions of higher learning, we must better tell our story and explain why investing in education is worthwhile. Education is not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s also about empowering individuals to reach their full potential and make a positive difference in the world. Our goal is to become a top choice for students interested in STEM fields, enabling us to transform more lives and contribute to the advancement of our society. This is where our focus lies in today’s evolving educational landscape.
