Colorado School of Mines
Director of the McNeil Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado, United States, 80401
Overview
Mines is seeking a visionary and hands-on leader to serve as Director of the McNeil Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. The Director will empower the entire student body with entrepreneurial tools, experiences, and development. Responsibilities include mapping and activating the full range of student-facing entrepreneurship resources, teaching foundational entrepreneurship courses, and launching signature programs like the Mines New Venture Challenge. If you’re energized by students, passionate about ideas, and eager to build something transformative as part of a world-class technical institution, this is the role for you. About the McNeil Center
At the Colorado School of Mines, we believe that every student—regardless of their major or career ambition—deserves the opportunity to take an idea and make it real. The McNeil Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation exists to bring this vision to life. As the student-focused heart of Mines’ thriving Entrepreneurship & Innovation (E&I) ecosystem, McNeil complements two powerhouse partners: the Beck Venture Center, which supports startup growth and investment, and the Labriola Innovation Hub, which brings hands-on experience to physical prototyping and making. The McNeil Center isn’t about startups alone—it’s about unleashing creativity and building a launchpad for Mines students to become innovators in every imaginable industry. Key Responsibilities
Serve as the primary driver of entrepreneurship for all Mines students. Create accessible, engaging, and inclusive programming that supports students at every point in their innovation journey. Make E&I Resources Accessible and Actionable Create intuitive and actionable pathways through the Mines E&I network—connecting students with tools, resources, mentors, and real-world opportunities at Labriola, Beck, and across campus. Help students see not just where to go next, but how to get there. Ensure “Ideas to Reality” for 100% of Students Design and promote opportunities so that every student, regardless of major or interest, has a meaningful experience turning an idea into something real—whether that’s a prototype, project, or startup. Meet Students Where They Are Engage students who may not identify as entrepreneurs but are building, designing, or solving real problems. Help them recognize the entrepreneurial value of what they’re doing and connect them with appropriate resources. Teach Foundational Entrepreneurship Courses Teach one course in the fall and one in the spring (e.g., Intro to Entrepreneurship). This helps the Director stay connected with the student community and directly engage budding entrepreneurs. (Formal teaching experience is not required.) Lead the Mines New Venture Challenge Co-lead the planning and execution of the annual Mines New Venture Challenge, a startup pitch competition for student teams across campus. Collaborate with Beck and the Mines Venture Fund to secure external investors and real capital for top ventures. Fundraising and Donor Relations Identify and cultivate relationships with supporters—including individuals, foundations, and organizations—who are passionate about innovation and entrepreneurship. Work in partnership with the Mines Foundation to align donor passions with strategic student programs and support fundraising for the McNeil Center in general and Mines at large. What You Bring
Minimum Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in a technical field (engineering, computer science, mathematics, or physical sciences) Experience as a startup founder, entrepreneurial educator, or mentor to early-stage ventures A student-first mindset, with a deep commitment to mentorship, access, and involvement Exceptional collaboration skills and a proven track record of working effectively in teams without direct authority over them Preferred Qualifications: A master’s or Ph.D. in a STEM or related field Experience working in higher education or managing student innovation programs A personal track record of launching or scaling a technology startup Why This Role Matters
This is your chance to shape the future of innovation at a top STEM university. You\'ll influence how thousands of students see their potential—not just as engineers or scientists, but as creators, founders, and leaders in every field. You\'ll help build something that outlives you. And you\'ll do it at a place where ideas don’t just stay in the classroom—they take flight. About Mines & Golden, CO
Colorado School of Mines is a top-ranked public university solving the grand challenges facing our society, particularly those related to the Earth, energy and the environment. Mines is committed to diversity, inclusion, and opportunity for all. Mines complies with laws and regulations to prevent discrimination and address potential inequities or safety concerns. Annual Rate $133,000 to $150,000 Mines takes into consideration a combination of candidate’s education, training and experience as well as the position’s scope and complexity, the discretion and latitude required in the role, work location, and external market and internal value when determining a salary level for potential new employees. In addition to the amazing benefits mentioned below, Mines offers an 11% employee contribution through our Mines Defined Contribution Plan and an incredible 12% employer contribution with immediate 100% vesting for our Administrative Faculty positions. Mines offers a robust portfolio of benefits for all employees, including: Flexible health and dental care options Generous sick/vacation time: 13 paid holidays per year – including a week-long winter break for entire campus. Fully vested retirement plan on first day of employment, with generous employer contribution Tuition benefits (6 credits per year for employees, 50 percent discount for dependents) Free RTD Ecopass All Mines employees also have access to discount programs and additional campus benefits. How to Apply
Interested applicants should apply online as soon as possible but before Monday, October 13, 2025 . If you submit your application after October 13, 2025, it may or may not be considered. How to Apply: Applicants must submit a letter of application addressing this position specifically and a curriculum vitae. References will not be contacted until later in the selection process and applicants will be informed before that contact is made. Contact Dorie Gelber, Human Resources, at dorie.gelber@mines.edu with any questions about this opportunity. Background Investigation Required
Prior to Start Accommodations - Mines will make reasonable accommodations during the employment selection process and within our working environment to promote equal opportunities for qualified applicants with disabilities. If you are unable to access job openings or apply due to disability, you may request a reasonable accommodation by contacting our Human Resources team at hr@mines.edu or 303.273.3250 for assistance.
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Mines is seeking a visionary and hands-on leader to serve as Director of the McNeil Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. The Director will empower the entire student body with entrepreneurial tools, experiences, and development. Responsibilities include mapping and activating the full range of student-facing entrepreneurship resources, teaching foundational entrepreneurship courses, and launching signature programs like the Mines New Venture Challenge. If you’re energized by students, passionate about ideas, and eager to build something transformative as part of a world-class technical institution, this is the role for you. About the McNeil Center
At the Colorado School of Mines, we believe that every student—regardless of their major or career ambition—deserves the opportunity to take an idea and make it real. The McNeil Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation exists to bring this vision to life. As the student-focused heart of Mines’ thriving Entrepreneurship & Innovation (E&I) ecosystem, McNeil complements two powerhouse partners: the Beck Venture Center, which supports startup growth and investment, and the Labriola Innovation Hub, which brings hands-on experience to physical prototyping and making. The McNeil Center isn’t about startups alone—it’s about unleashing creativity and building a launchpad for Mines students to become innovators in every imaginable industry. Key Responsibilities
Serve as the primary driver of entrepreneurship for all Mines students. Create accessible, engaging, and inclusive programming that supports students at every point in their innovation journey. Make E&I Resources Accessible and Actionable Create intuitive and actionable pathways through the Mines E&I network—connecting students with tools, resources, mentors, and real-world opportunities at Labriola, Beck, and across campus. Help students see not just where to go next, but how to get there. Ensure “Ideas to Reality” for 100% of Students Design and promote opportunities so that every student, regardless of major or interest, has a meaningful experience turning an idea into something real—whether that’s a prototype, project, or startup. Meet Students Where They Are Engage students who may not identify as entrepreneurs but are building, designing, or solving real problems. Help them recognize the entrepreneurial value of what they’re doing and connect them with appropriate resources. Teach Foundational Entrepreneurship Courses Teach one course in the fall and one in the spring (e.g., Intro to Entrepreneurship). This helps the Director stay connected with the student community and directly engage budding entrepreneurs. (Formal teaching experience is not required.) Lead the Mines New Venture Challenge Co-lead the planning and execution of the annual Mines New Venture Challenge, a startup pitch competition for student teams across campus. Collaborate with Beck and the Mines Venture Fund to secure external investors and real capital for top ventures. Fundraising and Donor Relations Identify and cultivate relationships with supporters—including individuals, foundations, and organizations—who are passionate about innovation and entrepreneurship. Work in partnership with the Mines Foundation to align donor passions with strategic student programs and support fundraising for the McNeil Center in general and Mines at large. What You Bring
Minimum Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in a technical field (engineering, computer science, mathematics, or physical sciences) Experience as a startup founder, entrepreneurial educator, or mentor to early-stage ventures A student-first mindset, with a deep commitment to mentorship, access, and involvement Exceptional collaboration skills and a proven track record of working effectively in teams without direct authority over them Preferred Qualifications: A master’s or Ph.D. in a STEM or related field Experience working in higher education or managing student innovation programs A personal track record of launching or scaling a technology startup Why This Role Matters
This is your chance to shape the future of innovation at a top STEM university. You\'ll influence how thousands of students see their potential—not just as engineers or scientists, but as creators, founders, and leaders in every field. You\'ll help build something that outlives you. And you\'ll do it at a place where ideas don’t just stay in the classroom—they take flight. About Mines & Golden, CO
Colorado School of Mines is a top-ranked public university solving the grand challenges facing our society, particularly those related to the Earth, energy and the environment. Mines is committed to diversity, inclusion, and opportunity for all. Mines complies with laws and regulations to prevent discrimination and address potential inequities or safety concerns. Annual Rate $133,000 to $150,000 Mines takes into consideration a combination of candidate’s education, training and experience as well as the position’s scope and complexity, the discretion and latitude required in the role, work location, and external market and internal value when determining a salary level for potential new employees. In addition to the amazing benefits mentioned below, Mines offers an 11% employee contribution through our Mines Defined Contribution Plan and an incredible 12% employer contribution with immediate 100% vesting for our Administrative Faculty positions. Mines offers a robust portfolio of benefits for all employees, including: Flexible health and dental care options Generous sick/vacation time: 13 paid holidays per year – including a week-long winter break for entire campus. Fully vested retirement plan on first day of employment, with generous employer contribution Tuition benefits (6 credits per year for employees, 50 percent discount for dependents) Free RTD Ecopass All Mines employees also have access to discount programs and additional campus benefits. How to Apply
Interested applicants should apply online as soon as possible but before Monday, October 13, 2025 . If you submit your application after October 13, 2025, it may or may not be considered. How to Apply: Applicants must submit a letter of application addressing this position specifically and a curriculum vitae. References will not be contacted until later in the selection process and applicants will be informed before that contact is made. Contact Dorie Gelber, Human Resources, at dorie.gelber@mines.edu with any questions about this opportunity. Background Investigation Required
Prior to Start Accommodations - Mines will make reasonable accommodations during the employment selection process and within our working environment to promote equal opportunities for qualified applicants with disabilities. If you are unable to access job openings or apply due to disability, you may request a reasonable accommodation by contacting our Human Resources team at hr@mines.edu or 303.273.3250 for assistance.
#J-18808-Ljbffr