Thomas Burkard

Thomas Burkard has a diverse and extensive work experience. Thomas is currently the Faculty - Director of Consulting at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where they oversee the Consulting Certificate program. Prior to this, they worked as a Faculty Lecturer at the Grainger School of Business at the same university, delivering value through NPD thought leadership and global manufacturing experience.

Thomas also has experience as a Co-Owner of Erecta-Rack by Innovative Solutions LLC, where they and their wife bought the company in 2016 and managed day-to-day operations and sales. Additionally, they worked at Sellside Group, LLC as a Managing Director - Consultant and Strategic Advisor, helping companies improve their decision-making methods, pipeline throughput, and leadership development.

Furthermore, Thomas has held leadership roles at Briggs & Stratton, serving as the Vice President - Commercial & Residential Products Group Global, and leading the product management and commercialization of outdoor power equipment. Thomas has also worked as the Vice President of Engineering and Innovation at Master Lock Company, responsible for the engineering and design of all products.

Earlier in their career, Thomas was the Vice President of Engineering at Briggs & Stratton, where they successfully turned around a division with significant operating losses. Thomas also worked as a Manager, Management Consultant at PRTM and an Applications Engineer at Praxair.

Thomas Burkard's work experience showcases their expertise in consulting, leadership, engineering, and product development across various industries.

Thomas Burkard earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Clarkson University, where they studied from 1988 to 1992. Thomas later pursued further education at The University of Chicago Booth School of Business, completing their Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a focus on Finance and Private Equity from 1996 to 1998.