I had a 30-year career in industry rising to be a senior executive and partner. Upon retirement, I began my second act as a professor of the practice which is a fancy term for adjunct professor. I work for a top 5 public institution (if you believe rankings). I teach approximately 7.5 credit hours a year, pay is 60K. No benefits, but lots of other perks. I am asked why I do it. Well, it keeps my brain sharp, my soul young and the reward feedback from helping the students is immeasurable. The pay feeds my Hobbies, or you can just call it walking around money. In my opinion, all Universities should mix faculty from academia (Phd’s) who do research and teach along with individuals from Industry like me that bring real world experience into the classroom. The added benefit with me is I have 30 years of relationships and have helped numerous students get internships and full-time jobs. As to the challenges of Phd’s getting tenure, I have only anecdotal evidence, but it appears to be more difficult every year because of the pressure to control costs. Unfortunately, it’s not the faculty costs that are the problem but the ridiculous amount of administrative personal and the amenities arms race needed to attract students. Just look at the threads on CC about campus tours and how parents judge the schools based on dorms, student union, etc. etc. Lastly, I think things in Industry are changing (Internet, AI, Automation, etc.) at a rapid pace, such that Colleges and Universities must adapt quickly, or they will face some tough times ahead attracting students.
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