Michigan Technological University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Michigan Technological University has 6 executives leading key functions including information technology, recruitment, technology strategy, institutional leadership, and chapter governance.

Driven by a commitment to innovation, Michigan Technological University advances research and technology transfer, specializing in critical fields like mechanical engineering, climate change, environmental engineering, and robotics to shape future leaders and solutions.

Leadership Roles at Michigan Technological University

  • Undergraduate Recruiter And Outreach Chief Operating Officer - Carly Benson
  • President - Evelyn Johnson
  • President - Michael Vigrass
  • Chapter President - Bruce Barna
  • Chief Information Officer - Joshua Olson
  • Deputy Chief Technology Officer - Jarrod Karau
  • Carly Benson - Undergraduate Recruiter And Outreach Chief Operating Officer

    Carly Benson, the Undergraduate Recruiter And Outreach Chief Operating Officer at Michigan Technological University, spearheads initiatives to attract and engage prospective undergraduate students. Benson manages the strategic direction of recruitment pipelines and outreach programs, focusing on highlighting the university's strengths in mechanical engineering, environmental engineering, and robotics. This operational leadership ensures effective communication with potential students and their families, fostering strong relationships that drive enrollment growth. By developing targeted outreach strategies, Carly Benson aims to increase the diversity and academic caliber of the incoming student body, directly supporting Michigan Technological University's commitment to technological innovation and research. The Chief Operating Officer's efforts are crucial in expanding the university's reach and impact across various regions, reinforcing its reputation as a premier institution for STEM education.

    Evelyn Johnson - President

    Evelyn Johnson, the President at Michigan Technological University, provides overarching strategic leadership and vision for the institution. Johnson guides the university's direction, focusing on enhancing its research prominence in areas such as mechanical engineering, environmental engineering, and climate change studies. This executive leadership role involves fostering collaborations with industry partners to facilitate technology transfer and economic development. By championing academic excellence and innovation, Evelyn Johnson ensures Michigan Technological University remains at the forefront of scientific and technological advancement. The President's commitment extends to strengthening the university's financial health and operational efficiency, thereby supporting its mission to educate future leaders and contribute impactful research to society. Johnson's leadership cultivates an environment of discovery and progress across all departments.

    Michael Vigrass - President

    Michael Vigrass, the President at Michigan Technological University, directs the institution's strategic growth and operational effectiveness. Vigrass oversees the implementation of policies and programs designed to advance the university's mission in specialized fields like robotics and climate change research. This leadership position involves cultivating strong relationships with stakeholders, including faculty, staff, students, and external partners, to foster a collaborative and innovative academic environment. By focusing on resource allocation and institutional development, Michael Vigrass ensures Michigan Technological University maintains its status as a leading public research university. The President's strategic oversight supports the continuous improvement of academic offerings and research infrastructure, driving forward the university's commitment to technological innovation and societal impact.

    Bruce Barna - Chapter President

    Bruce Barna, the Chapter President at Michigan Technological University, leads the specific chapter's governance and operational activities. Barna is responsible for overseeing chapter initiatives, ensuring alignment with the broader organizational objectives and university standards. This role involves managing chapter resources, coordinating member engagement, and representing the chapter in relevant forums. By directing chapter operations, Bruce Barna supports the professional development and networking opportunities for members within their specialized fields, potentially related to engineering or research. The Chapter President's focus is on fostering a strong community and advancing the chapter's mission, contributing to the overall academic and professional ecosystem at Michigan Technological University.

    Joshua Olson - Chief Information Officer

    Joshua Olson, the Chief Information Officer at Michigan Technological University, directs the institution's comprehensive information technology strategy and operations. Olson oversees the infrastructure supporting academic research, student services, and administrative functions, ensuring robust cybersecurity measures and efficient data management. This leadership role involves architecting scalable IT solutions that align with the university's mission of technological advancement and transfer. By optimizing network performance and implementing cutting-edge digital tools, Olson enhances the learning and research environment for students and faculty across the Houghton campus. The Chief Information Officer's focus remains on driving technological innovation to support Michigan Technological University's specialized programs in mechanical engineering, climate change research, and robotics, thereby solidifying its position as a leading public research institution.

    Jarrod Karau - Deputy Chief Technology Officer

    Jarrod Karau, the Deputy Chief Technology Officer at Michigan Technological University, supports the Chief Information Officer in advancing the institution's technological capabilities. Karau focuses on the implementation and maintenance of critical technology infrastructure, ensuring seamless integration of systems that support research, teaching, and administration. This role involves overseeing projects related to cloud computing, network upgrades, and the deployment of new software solutions, directly impacting the university's capacity for climate change research and robotics development. By driving technological efficiency, Jarrod Karau contributes to the effective transfer of technology from research labs to practical applications. The Deputy Chief Technology Officer's work is essential in maintaining Michigan Technological University's competitive edge in specialized engineering fields and fostering an environment conducive to groundbreaking discoveries.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Michigan Technological University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Michigan Technological University?
    Michigan Technological University is led by Carly Benson (Undergraduate Recruiter And Outreach Chief Operating Officer), along with executives such as Evelyn Johnson (President) and Michael Vigrass (President).
    Who is part of Michigan Technological University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Michigan Technological University includes leaders such as Carly Benson (Undergraduate Recruiter And Outreach Chief Operating Officer), Evelyn Johnson (President), Michael Vigrass (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Michigan Technological University have?
    Michigan Technological University has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Michigan Technological University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Michigan Technological University includes roles such as Undergraduate Recruiter And Outreach Chief Operating Officer, President, President, Chapter President, Chief Information Officer.