The University of Pittsburgh recently launched its inaugural executive education program, The Academy: Facility Leadership and Management, a collaboration between the School of Business and Pitt Research. Initiated by Rob Cunningham, vice chancellor for research infrastructure, and Mark Geraci, vice chancellor for research, health sciences, the five-day program equipped 16 core facility directors from across campus with foundational business skills in strategy, accounting, marketing, operations, leadership, and teamwork.
Through group discussions, case studies, journey mapping, and simulations, participants gained practical tools to strengthen the way they lead and manage their research facilities. Nick Howell, electronics shop supervisor, captured the experience well: “This course opened my eyes to what it takes to lead and manage at the next level.”
The program’s practical, business-focused curriculum resonated particularly with directors who came to their roles through scientific backgrounds. Julia Hart, supervisor of the McGowan Institute Histology Core Laboratory, noted, “As a scientist who moved into a facility manager position, this course provided valuable tools to run my lab and strategize for the future. The connections made with the faculty and other attendees are invaluable.”
Faculty who led the program included Patrick Martin, Kiersten Maryott, Prakash Mirchandani, Ravi Madhavan, and Kim Abel.
Beyond skill-building, the Academy explored opportunities for broader industry partnerships. Audrey Russo, president and CEO of the Pittsburgh Technology Council, shared insights on how facility directors might leverage PTC’s resources and network to expand their impact. The program also encouraged participants to reflect on their own growth areas. Wenmin Yang, research assistant professor at the Western Pennsylvania Quantum Information Core, shared, “I learned a lot from accounting to operations and found my weakness and the direction to grow.”
As the inaugural cohort, participant feedback will help shape the program’s future delivery. Plans for next year include extending the Academy to facility directors at other universities, building on the strong foundation established this year.
If you would like to build practical skills in accounting, in accounting, marketing, operations, strategy, and team collaboration—skills that help leaders strengthen performance, improve decision-making, and lead with greater impact – sign up to receive information about the next Academy.