Long before Rob Maynard led technology companies, he was a cooperative education (co-op) engineering student at NC State University. That early experience introduced him to solving real-world problems and shaped the way he approached every opportunity. As his career grew, he took on leadership roles in product management, general management and finance. Along the way, he helped build multiple startup companies and guided mergers and acquisitions for mid-sized technology services firms.
His work soon earned national recognition. In 2014, industry leaders named him one of the seven top chief financial officers in Northeast Florida. Then, two years later, he reached another milestone by negotiating the successful sale of his technology company. Today, Maynard brings decades of leadership experience and a passion for innovation to every challenge. Yet, his journey began with the hands-on learning opportunities he found at NC State.
Graduating Class: 1984
Hometown: Henderson, NC
- What is the single most important experience or understanding you gained in the ISE department?
Engineering is an incredible education that requires focusing on details and becoming an advanced analytical thinker. My advice to engineering students is to learn and grow every day…Dream Big! I would also suggest rounding out your engineering background with a good understanding of finance, as it will greatly benefit you as your career advances. One final thought: read every day, learn a foreign language and work on becoming a better listener!
- What is the most pressing issue facing human society that engineers should be working harder to solve?
I think the implications of technology, both good and bad, need to be at the forefront of all
of our decisions. I look at AI and see a wealth of potential to do good, but also the potential to do harm. How do we work with technology to make society better?
- What would you like to accomplish in your career? What are you most proud of so far?
I am at the later stages of my career, but “all in all,” I am proud of what I have accomplished. I have grown companies from zero to multi-million dollar companies, and I believe I have positively impacted my employees in advancing their careers.
- If you were not in the engineering field, what would you likely be doing?
Studying the evolution of humankind and all of the influences that have shaped our path
throughout history.
- What advice do you have for current ISE students?
- Focus on getting smarter and better every day. Wake up every morning and think about your goals and how you will drive your personal growth.
- Take risks, dream big and always try to make the right decision even when it may not be the most expected or popular decision.
- Be a friend and sponsor, always try to help others….pay it back or forward.
- If you find yourself in a management role, do your best to hire the smartest people you can find. It will make you better and more effective. I have always wanted my employees to be smarter and better than I am; this has served me well throughout the years.