What's Happening?
Bryan Laing has been appointed as a Lecturer in Business Administration and Internship Director at Stevenson University’s Brown School of Business and Leadership. In this role, Laing will leverage his extensive background in entrepreneurship, workforce
development, strategic partnerships, higher education, and small-business consulting to benefit students, employers, and community partners. His professional experience includes strategic-partnership and regional-workforce roles at Western Governors University, where he focused on developing pathways for non-traditional learners and strengthening connections between workforce training and degree completion. Prior to this, Laing taught entrepreneurship as an adjunct faculty member at Stevenson University and served as an instructor, consultant, and program advisor at Frederick Community College and Howard Community College. His academic and workforce-development contributions include designing a grant-funded Food Entrepreneur training program and developing workforce-aligned instructional materials. As Training Director and Business Consultant for the Maryland Small Business Development Center at Carroll Community College, he advised entrepreneurs and small-business owners on various aspects of business, including marketing, finance, operations, management, and growth strategy. He also developed and launched the Pathways to Entrepreneurship pilot program, which supported participants in completing business plans and securing funding.
Why It's Important?
This appointment is significant for Stevenson University and its students, as Bryan Laing's diverse experience brings a practical, real-world perspective to business education. His background in entrepreneurship and small-business consulting can directly benefit students seeking to launch their own ventures or enter the business world. The focus on workforce development and strategic partnerships is crucial for aligning academic programs with industry needs, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the job market. His work in developing pathways for non-traditional learners and strengthening connections between workforce training and degree completion highlights an emphasis on accessible and relevant education. For the broader U.S. economy, such initiatives are vital for fostering a skilled workforce, supporting small business growth, and promoting economic development. By connecting students with employers and community partners, Laing's role can help bridge the gap between academic learning and practical application, ultimately contributing to a more robust and adaptable workforce.
What's Next?
Bryan Laing will continue to develop and implement programs that connect Stevenson University students with practical business experience and career opportunities. His role as Internship Director suggests an increased focus on experiential learning, which will likely lead to more robust internship programs and stronger ties with local and regional businesses. Students can anticipate enhanced opportunities for mentorship, skill development, and networking through these initiatives. Furthermore, his expertise in strategic partnerships and workforce development may lead to new collaborations between the university and various industry associations, employers, and community organizations. These partnerships could result in specialized training programs, grant-funded projects, and improved career pathways for graduates. The university may also see an expansion of its entrepreneurship programs, building on Laing's success in advising small businesses and launching pilot programs like 'Pathways to Entrepreneurship.'
Beyond the Headlines
Beyond the immediate impact on Stevenson University, Bryan Laing's appointment reflects a broader trend in higher education towards integrating practical, career-focused learning with academic curricula. This shift is critical in an evolving job market that increasingly demands graduates with not only theoretical knowledge but also hands-on experience and adaptable skills. The emphasis on workforce development and strategic partnerships underscores the growing recognition that universities play a vital role in regional economic ecosystems, acting as catalysts for innovation and talent development. Laing's work with non-traditional learners also highlights the importance of inclusive education, ensuring that diverse populations have access to opportunities for skill enhancement and career advancement. This approach can help address skill gaps in various industries and foster a more equitable and dynamic workforce, ultimately contributing to long-term economic resilience and social mobility across the U.S.
