Jeremy Nelson Portrait

Education

BSE Computer Engineering, University of Michigan – 2000

Jeremy Nelson

Chief Technology Officer

Why I Choose to Work at Academic Innovation

Leading the next generation of transformative technologies is rooted in solving pain points for diverse audiences—a principle I’ve cultivated throughout my career. I have a track record of creating initiatives from the ground up, evolving them into successful, impactful, and sustainable organizations that leverage technology to effect meaningful change. My experience and leadership are dedicated to propelling the University of Michigan to the forefront of educational innovation, fostering a leading center that serves faculty, industry, students, and the broader community.

Current Roles and Vision

As Chief Technology Officer at the Center for Academic Innovation (CAI), I oversee the strategic direction and integration of our Educational Technology Accelerator, infrastructure, Creative Studios media design, and Michigan Online technology. My role involves:

Educational Technology Accelerator: Spearheading the translation and integration of emerging technologies—such as generative AI and extended reality (XR)—into U-M’s learning environments, ensuring they enhance teaching and learning experiences.

Infrastructure Leadership: Managing the foundational technologies that support CAI’s digital learning platforms, ensuring scalability, reliability, and alignment with the university’s mission.

Creative Studios: Leading our in-house media design and production teams to create high-quality, engaging learning experiences that elevate U-M’s online and hybrid courses. This includes innovative uses of virtual production, interactive video, field-based production, and studio media.

Michigan Online Technology: Guiding the technological evolution of Michigan Online, expanding access to U-M’s rich educational resources for learners worldwide through foundational and emerging solutions.

Together, these teams collaborate to blend educational media, pedagogy, and emerging technologies into cohesive learning experiences that scale across programs and platforms. We are committed to fostering dynamic public-private partnerships, developing innovative educational technologies, and ensuring that our platforms are responsive, inclusive, and built for long-term growth.

Previous Experience

Prior to my current position at CAI, I was the co-founder and managing partner at Afia Inc., an Ann Arbor-based healthcare consulting firm. There, I led nationwide efforts to help organizations select and implement technology solutions that enhanced processes and improved patient experiences.

Ask Me to Learn About

  • • Emerging technologies, including home automation and electric vehicles

    • Digital video production in athletics

    • Creative approaches to educational media design

    • Strategies for integrating innovative technologies into educational settings