Michael Aikens

About Michael Aikens

As a serial entrepreneur, Michael has used his background in entrepreneurship, technology, and marketing to provide leadership for the TN Tech I&E ecosystem and culture, complete projects allowing a variety of local and statewide businesses and government organizations to flourish, and devise strategies to further regional economic development for numerous entities across the state.

Experience

1. Vice President for Research and Economic Development (Acting)

   Tennessee Technological University

   Jul 2025 — Present

   Acting VPR role to provide strategic leadership to advance the institution’s research mission, innovation agenda, and economic development impact. Oversee research administration, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and support faculty and student research initiatives. Build partnerships with industry, government, and community stakeholders to drive economic development and translate research into real-world impact. Focus includes supporting intellectual property development, technology transfer, and the commercialization of research innovations. Grow and maintain research excellence, expand funding opportunities, and strengthen the infrastructure that supports a growing research enterprise.

Education

• Tennessee Technological University

  Master of Professional Studies, Strategic Leadership

  2009 — 2012

• University of the Cumberlands

  Ph.D., Leadership

• Appalachian State University

  B.S.B.A., Marketing

  1998 — 2003

Skills

• Leadership
• Marketing Communications
• Digital Media
• Microsoft Office
• Social Media
• Drupal
• Eagle Scout
• Microsoft Word
• Public Speaking
• Digital Marketing
• Marketing Strategy
• Responsive Design
• Online Advertising
• Event Management
• Civicrm
• Video Production
• Social Media Marketing
• Microsoft Excel
• Powerpoint
• Open Source Software
• Entrepreneurship
• Advertising
• Lamp
• Ubuntu
• Event Planning
• Social Networking
• Editing
• Marketing
• Regional Development