The Georgia Institute of Technology – Scheller College of Business has named Robert Gemmell, BSEE 1979, MSEE 1980, as the new executive director of the Technological Innovation: Generating Economic Results (TI:GER) program.
Gemmell earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Georgia Tech — plus an MBA at Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business — before pursuing his Ph.D. at Case Western Reserve University’s Weatherhead School of Management in 2012. In 2003, Gemmell was inducted into the Georgia Tech Academy of Distinguished Engineering Alumni.
Today, Gemmell has more than 30 years of experience in various roles throughout the technology industry, including chip design engineer, tech transfer consultant and serial entrepreneur, among others. Most recently, Gemmell served as chairman and CEO for Cirronet, Inc., the Atlanta-based wireless technology firm. From 2011-2014, Gemmell served as a visiting assistant professor at Georgia State University.
“It is a pleasure to welcome Bob back to Georgia Tech and Scheller College,” said Scheller College dean Maryam Alavi. “His knowledge and experience as an entrepreneur, educator, and researcher will help prepare our students for the challenges of commercializing new technologies and delivering innovative products to the marketplace.”
Since 2002, TI:GER has partnered Scheller College MBA students with Emory University law students focused on the commercialization of a student’s research from the science, engineering, or computing Ph.D programs. TI:GER is housed at Scheller College, and gives students an opportunity to turn research into real-life business opportunities.
“As a proud alumnus of Georgia Tech, I am delighted to have the opportunity to return to the institute that has had such a positive impact on my life and career,” said Gemmell, who began his involvement with TI:GER as a volunteer more than 14 years ago. “The TI:GER program is a unique and world renowned program and I am looking forward to working with the TI:GER team and faculty to continue growing the program’s scope, effectiveness, and reputation.”