Michigan Tech has experienced a change in financial leadership following the departure of Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Carlos Rodriguez, who began his new position as the CFO of Western Michigan University on Oct. 1.
Rodriguez joined Michigan Tech on May 1, 2025, as CFO and vice president for administration. His departure after approximately 17 months added to a streak of quick turnovers in one of the university’s top administrative positions.
Michigan Tech has had three CFOs since 2019. Sue Kerry served from Jun. 2019 to Jun. 2022, followed by Nicholas Stevens from 2023 to early 2025. Stevens later transitioned to Associate Vice President for Finance before Rodriguez took over in May 2025.
The frequent changes in this position contrast with former CFO Daniel Greenlee, who held the position for 14 years before retiring in 2014. Although the university has experienced several leadership changes, the reasons behind the turnover remain unclear.
The CFO is responsible for overseeing the university’s financial health, including budgeting, financial planning, and spending. The position has also included oversight of facilities management, information technology, human resources, and other administrative services.
Without a permanent CFO, questions can arise about who oversees major financial decisions and long-term planning. However, the absence of a CFO does not mean the university’s financial operations stop.
Michigan Tech’s Financial Services and Operations directory identifies Stevens as Vice President for Finance, a position he assumed in Sep. 2026. It remains unclear whether Stevens has also taken over the responsibilities previously held by Rodriguez.
As of Oct. 18, Michigan Tech has not publicly announced a new CFO or provided a timeline for selecting one. An inquiry to the university’s Human Resources department did not yield additional information about the vacancy or replacement process.
Rodriguez’s departure leaves unanswered questions about the university’s recent leadership changes and whether a search for another CFO is underway.
