Michigan Tech Alumnus Returns to Discuss Entrepreneurship Journey

Dr. Eugene Manley, Jr. shares path from engineer to scientist, nonprofit founder, and entrepreneur

Mar. 13, 2026 at 8:21pm

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Mechanical engineering alumnus Dr. Eugene Manley, Jr. will return to Michigan Technological University on March 17, 2026 to deliver a presentation and seminar on his journey from engineer to scientist to nonprofit founder and entrepreneur. Manley will share how his career evolved across engineering, biomedical research, nonprofit leadership, and entrepreneurship, and encourage students to think beyond narrow career definitions and view their education as a platform for long-term reinvention, impact, and leadership.

Why it matters

Manley's multidisciplinary path demonstrates how skills and experience in one field can provide a foundation for growth and impact across many others. His message encourages students to remain open to change and recognize the diverse possibilities within their education and training.

The details

During his presentation, Manley will discuss the importance of understanding one's career options, embracing change, and recognizing that a strong start in one field can become the basis for expansion into other areas. He will draw from his own experience building a professional journey spanning academia, science, mentorship, health equity, workforce development, nonprofit leadership, public speaking, and business strategy.

  • Dr. Manley will return to Michigan Tech's campus on March 17, 2026.
  • Manley has not been back on campus since 2002.

The players

Dr. Eugene Manley, Jr.

A 1999 graduate of Michigan Tech with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Manley is the founder of the SCHEQ (STEMM & Cancer Health Equity) Foundation and Innovation for Impact Consulting.

SCHEQ Foundation

A nonprofit organization focused on increasing diversity in STEMM education and careers while improving cancer care outcomes for underserved communities.

Innovation for Impact Consulting

A strategic advisory and speaking practice focused on career navigation, leadership, and helping organizations develop fundable and scalable programs.

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What they’re saying

“I am excited to return to Michigan Tech to give back to the new students coming along and teach them how starting in one area can give you a foundation to expand from.”

— Dr. Eugene Manley, Jr.

“Knowing your options can change how you see your future. When students understand that their skills can evolve across fields, they are better prepared to lead, adapt, and make an impact.”

— Dr. Eugene Manley, Jr.

What’s next

Manley's seminar on March 17, 2026 will encourage students and emerging professionals to think beyond narrow career definitions and view their education as a platform for long-term reinvention, impact, and leadership.

The takeaway

Dr. Manley's multidisciplinary career path demonstrates how skills and experience in one field can provide a foundation for growth and impact across many others, inspiring students to remain open to change and recognize the diverse possibilities within their education and training.