From Global Executive to Grounded Educator: A Conversation with Dr. Marko Jocic
It’s not every day you meet someone who, in just one conversation, creates a space for reflection, learning, and connection. That’s exactly what happened when I spoke with Dr. Marko Jocic. What struck me most wasn’t just the depth of his global experience or the many leadership hats he’s worn (though, let’s be real, that alone is remarkable)—it was his fearless decision to walk away from big titles and embrace a path rooted in purpose — building people, shaping careers, and making a lasting impact.
In this conversation, we explore what it means to help someone else grow, why reinvention is worth the risk, and how the next generation can harness tools like AI to shape a smarter, more connected world. His insights are both grounding and energizing, and I’m so excited and honored to share his story with you here. At Tech She Secures, we celebrate bold, authentic, driven voices like Dr. Marko’s—because they remind us of what’s possible when we lead with heart.
Origins: From Circuits to Classrooms
You’ve had a remarkable global career across engineering, marketing, and leadership. You’ve worked on heavy-duty systems—literally. What made you pivot to teaching, and how did you know it was the right path?
My son was about a year old, and I realized I had missed most of his first moments between being in the office and traveling abroad. I knew I needed to make a change. I started teaching discreetly as an adjunct after work, driving two hours to UMass for an introductory business class, primarily to improve my teaching skills. But I fell in love with it immediately. Seeing the impact on students, even in basic things like understanding loans or credit cards, gave me chills. I still get that feeling today. Coincidentally, in that very first class, one of my student teams won the final business simulation across 20+ sections. I went on to teach at Quinnipiac and CCSU part-time across multiple departments, eventually earning an Excellence in Teaching award. By then, I knew it was a calling and decided to transition to academia full-time. I was fortunate to join KSU’s top-ranked Executive MBA program despite interviewing from my car. They were looking for someone with a doctorate and real-world experience across marketing, sales, supply chain, information technology, and beyond – and I had a unique and fitting background for it.
What does it mean to you to build someone else's career? How do you measure success as a teacher and mentor?
Building someone else’s career is the ultimate gift. We not only witness their growth, but we know we played a part in it. That impact is priceless. I keep a log of all the thank-you notes, shout-outs, and "because of you" messages. Students may not think it matters, but I keep them all and revisit them when I need a reminder of why I do this.
The Calling: What It Takes to Teach and Lead
Teaching can be a thankless job, but also the most transformational. What keeps you grounded and inspired?
I strive to practice what I teach - too often, academia leans heavily on theory over real-world application. But I also recognize that I’ll never be an expert in everything. Every day presents an opportunity to learn and apply something new. I encourage my students, many of whom are experts, to speak up during class because their contributions are invaluable. What keeps me grounded is learning alongside such driven, capable, talented people every day.
How do you approach teaching professionals who are already experts in their fields?
I treat them as peers. Our cohorts have seasoned leaders and skilled individual contributors seeking to advance their careers. My mindset is that we all bring value, and I, along with the cohort, learn as much from them as they do from me. I encourage an interactive experience during classes, where we focus on practical tools and exercises that students can apply immediately.
You’ve worked in over 50 countries—how has that shaped how you connect with students from diverse backgrounds?
Traveling the world taught me more than any book could. I’ve gained a deep appreciation for how different cultures operate and how those differences enrich our thinking. I grew up in Miami and was the first in my family born in the United States; my parents are from Tanzania and Yugoslavia, so I understand firsthand the value of diverse perspectives. I use that lens to connect with students both professionally and personally – helping them in any way I can.
What do you wish more students understood about resilience, failure, and reinvention?
I wish more students understood that it’s okay to fail, to change majors, to switch careers, or to start something and have it not work out as long as you learn from it. I played it somewhat safely early on, but when I finally reinvented myself, it led me to what I genuinely love. Life is too short to have regrets about what we should’ve done.
Guiding the Next Generation
Our readers often ask: “Where do I even begin?” What advice would you give someone trying to pivot or restart their career?
Even marathons begin with a single step. So, the key is to act. Don’t wait, hesitate, or overthink. Upskill with degrees, certifications, or new experiences. Keep learning and evolving, and never settle.
What’s one misconception you think people—especially women or underrepresented groups—have about breaking into tech or business?
Imposter syndrome. We’re our own worst critics, and we compare ourselves to others unfairly. Even the “experts” feel uncertain, but they keep moving forward. The moment you stop doubting yourself and become your own biggest supporter, breakthroughs happen. If you aren’t your own cheerleader, who will be?
Lessons from Life
What does success mean to you today, and how has that evolved over the years?
I measure success by fulfillment, not by title or salary. I once aspired to be a Fortune 500 CEO, but that goal faded the moment I realized I had found my true calling in teaching. Do what you love and do it well. I also focus on myself and my family just as much as I do on my career since I know what’s truly important in life.
You’ve traveled to over 50 countries and taught countless students. What’s one thing you’ve learned about people that no textbook could ever teach?
That the world and its people are beautifully diverse. Everyone and every place has something unique to offer. You can only truly appreciate that by experiencing it firsthand. Take the time to enjoy the places and people you interact with every day, wherever you are.
The ‘BADdest’ Challenge
At Tech She Secures, we celebrate the bold, authentic, and driven. Tell us about the ‘BADdest’ challenge you’ve taken on in your career—the one that pushed you, shaped you, or changed you. What did it teach you about yourself?
Leaving a long-time SVP role and moving states after COVID-19 to start over in academia was the boldest leap I’ve taken. It was a one-year contract in a new city, away from family, while trying to buy and sell homes, but it reminded me that change is where growth occurs, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat.
What’s Next: The Road Ahead
In your view, what’s something the next generation of tech professionals can’t afford to overlook as they build what’s next?
The power of AI. Used wisely, it’s a productivity tool like no other, giving us new capabilities. But, many businesses and individuals have yet to tap into its full potential. The next generation needs to move beyond basic generative AI to build new tools, automate workflows, and solve complex problems on a larger scale.
You’ve worn many hats—engineer, executive, educator. What’s next for you? Is there a new chapter you’re excited to write?
I’m committed to growing my research portfolio dramatically, and who knows, 'Inventor' may be the next chapter. Stay tuned, and thank you for the thoughtful questions!
Closing Reflections
Dr. Marko Jocic’s story is such a powerful reminder that reinvention isn’t just possible — it’s often where we discover our truest purpose. Whether it’s switching careers, challenging your own limits, or learning alongside others, Dr. Marko shows us that growth happens when we lean into change with humility and heart. It takes real courage to walk away from what looks like “success” on paper and run toward what truly matters: fulfillment, impact, and lifting others as you go.
At the heart of it all are the teachers — the mentors, coaches, and guides who help shape our journeys. I know I wouldn’t be where I am today without the teachers who believed in me, challenged me, and helped me see the possibilities I couldn’t yet imagine. Dr. Marko’s journey is a tribute to that power: the ability not just to build your own career, but to help others rise alongside you.
For anyone standing at a crossroads, wondering if you’re ready to take that leap or reinvent your path — this is your sign: you are. So be bold. Cheer yourself on. And trust that the most meaningful chapters are still waiting to be written.
I’m so thankful Dr. Marko shared his story with me — and now, with all of you. Let’s keep learning, evolving, and lifting each other up.
Maliha
Disclaimer: The content on this blog and website reflects a combination of my personal experiences, perspectives, and insights, as well as interviews and contributions from other individuals. It does not represent the opinions, policies, or strategies of any organization I am currently affiliated with or have been affiliated with in the past. This platform serves as a personal space for sharing ideas, lessons learned, and meaningful reflections.
