Contact: James Carskadon
STARKVILLE, Miss.—A seasoned software executive and entrepreneur is now leading Mississippi State University’s Office of Technology Management.
John Walters, a two-time MSU alumnus, assumed the new role this month, leading the university’s efforts to turn cutting-edge research into real-world impact. He comes to MSU from Austin, Texas, where he was the community engagement manager for Procurated, Inc., a Washington, D.C.-based start-up that helps government procurement officials find and evaluate suppliers.
“Every day, MSU researchers are developing new tools that will make a positive impact on our world, and the Office of Technology Management plays a major role in ensuring our discoveries reach their full potential,” said MSU Vice President for Research and Economic Development Julie Jordan. “Tech transfer is also a key part of our economic development strategy as we work to grow Mississippi’s innovation-based economy. John brings decades of experience to this position, and I look forward to him growing the many ways we can connect our researchers with technology transfer opportunities.”
Walters earned his bachelor’s degree from MSU in marketing and went on to earn his Master of Business Administration with concentrations in finance and economics. He has remained connected to his alma mater by serving as a mentor to technology start-up companies through the MSU Center for Entrepreneurship and Outreach’s advisory board.
“I am thrilled to assume the role of director for the Office of Technology Management at Mississippi State University, where I look forward to collaborating with our researchers to foster innovation and maximize the value of MSU’s intellectual property,” Walters said. “Together, we will forge partnerships with companies, license MSU’s cutting-edge technologies, and drive the creation of spinoff companies, contributing to the economic development of the state of Mississippi and beyond.”
From 1999-2012, Walters co-founded and served as executive vice president of Periscope Holdings, Inc., a technology startup that became a leading e-procurement solutions company serving state and local governments. Following this, he assumed a key management role with Stage 3 Separation, LLC, before returning to Periscope Holdings, Inc., as NIGP program director until their acquisition in 2021 by mdf commerce. Active in the Austin start-up scene, Walters has mentored businesses through SCORE Austin.
The Office of Technology Management operates MSU’s extensive portfolio of technologies available for licensing. As a catalyst for technological advancement, the office bridges the gap between academia and industry, fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and collaboration. For more information, visit www.otm.msstate.edu.
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