The Transformative Leadership Journey of a Tech Visionary
John Rathje
Vice President, Information Services and CIO at Kent State University
In a world increasingly driven by technology, effective leadership has never been more essential. The Leaders in Tech Podcast aims to uncover the wisdom of exceptional leaders who are using technology to create a better world. In this episode, we had the privilege of speaking with John Rathje, Vice President and CIO of Kent State University, a visionary leader with a remarkable journey in technology and leadership.
The Power of Leadership in Technology
John Rathje’s insights resonate deeply with the essence of leadership. As he eloquently puts it, “Technology is built by people, for people.” His perspective underscores the vital role of leadership in guiding the innovation process, emphasizing the human element behind technological advancements.
At Kent State University, a nationally recognized R1 institution with around 35,000 students, John oversees technological innovations that not only impact the academic world but ripple across industries. One fascinating example? The liquid crystal technology that paved the way for touch screens originated at Kent State. John’s role involves fostering an environment where creativity and innovation thrive—a mission aligned with the very fabric of higher education.
A Journey of Curiosity and Growth
John’s path to leadership began with an innate curiosity about how things work. Starting with an interest in electrical engineering, he pursued a degree in physics and later a master’s in computer science. His academic foundation gave him the tools to explore and understand the rapidly evolving landscape of technology.
Reflecting on his early experiences, John recalls borrowing the only computer in his high school during a Christmas break to write his first program in BASIC. That initial spark grew into a lifelong passion for problem-solving and innovation.
The Role of Higher Education in Driving Innovation
Universities have always been hubs of innovation, and Kent State is no exception. John highlighted how the institution’s cutting-edge research has contributed to groundbreaking technologies that shape our modern lives. For example, the development of liquid crystal technology at Kent State laid the groundwork for the touch screens we use every day.
“Being surrounded by brilliant minds who think about the future is incredibly inspiring,” John shared. This environment drives leaders like him to push boundaries and explore new possibilities in technology.
Adapting to Exponential Change
In the conversation, John reflected on the accelerating pace of technological change. Referencing Moore’s Law—the idea that computing power doubles approximately every 18 months while decreasing in cost—he pointed out that we’ve entered an era where the rapid evolution of technology is creating a significant gap between innovation and adoption.
“As leaders, we need to be intentional about exploring new technologies,” he emphasized. Businesses must critically assess which technologies to adopt to avoid falling behind in an increasingly competitive landscape.
Leadership Lessons and Mindset
John’s leadership philosophy is grounded in humility and a growth mindset. He believes in empowering his team to innovate and take risks, emphasizing the importance of learning from failure.
“If we’re not making mistakes, we’re not doing anything,” he stated. “But let’s not make the same mistake twice.” This approach fosters a culture of continuous improvement and encourages his team to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.
John also highlighted the importance of developing a mindset that values collaboration and critical thinking. “Fall in love with the problem, not the solution,” he advised. This perspective allows teams to remain adaptable and innovative in addressing complex challenges.
The Future of Technology and Leadership
Looking ahead, John expressed optimism about the future of technology and its potential to transform society. However, he acknowledged the need for leaders to focus on developing adjacent skills and fostering curiosity to remain relevant in a rapidly evolving job market.
“Predictions suggest that two billion jobs will be displaced by 2030,” he noted. “But this isn’t about job loss—it’s about transformation.” Leaders must prepare their teams to adapt and thrive by cultivating a culture of lifelong learning.
A Final Message for Aspiring Leaders
When asked what advice he would give if he had a billboard on the busiest highway in the world, John’s response was deeply personal: “Look up.” As a man of faith, this simple message reflects his belief in finding purpose and meaning in every aspect of life.
Conclusion
John Rathje’s journey is a testament to the power of curiosity, resilience, and effective leadership. His insights serve as a guiding light for aspiring leaders who wish to navigate the ever-changing world of technology while making a meaningful impact.
Written by Dhan Ababa
“Fall in love with the problem, not the solution. It’s through embracing challenges and fostering a mindset of curiosity that we create innovation, growth, and meaningful impact.”
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