At CFE, we know the entrepreneurial spark lives in every Wolverine, in every college and every corner of campus. That’s why we’re excited for you to meet Jim Fish, a teacher, mentor, and self-proclaimed “corporate guy” who finally followed his itch to build things that matter. Jim’s path proves you don’t have to fit a mold to make a difference. If you’re searching for inspiration, perspective, and real talk about building your own professional portfolio, you’re in the right place..
From Solving Big Problems to Building Bold Futures
For Jim, it all started with a big, motivating question: How can I work on things that matter? As he puts it,
“Solving big problems and working on things that matter. There is adrenaline to building stuff that people want and seeing it all come together.”
That adrenaline has fueled a career that’s spanned from major corporations to early-stage startups, always chasing that next big idea and asking, “What if?”
An Itch to Innovate
Jim’s story isn’t a straight line. He spent years as a “corporate guy” with what he calls “entrepreneurial itches”—and, in his own words, “never really understood how to act on them.”
He never lost sight of technology and stayed “connected to opportunities through vehicle communication networks—first at Ford, then a series of increasingly entrepreneurial roles.” The real turning point? Jumping in with both feet at a consumer-focused startup.
“It was a perfect partnership in that he had created something magical, and I knew how to blow it up and get the attention of buyers—which we did.”
That success wasn’t just a win—it opened the door for Jim to live what he now calls a “portfolio” life:
“VC Investing, helping startups and Industry Trade Associations, working with technology companies on exits and teaching at Michigan’s CFE.”
Talk about a career remix.
Coming Home to CFE
So how did Jim land at CFE? A mix of friendship, fate, and a vision he couldn’t ignore:
“I had known a few of the instructors for years, and guest lectured a few times. The staff at CFE presented a very persuasive vision and I just had to be part of the mission. After all, these are the classes I wish I had as an undergraduate Engineer!”
Now, Jim pours all that entrepreneurial energy back into the classroom. His course, ENTR 520: Tech Inspired Business Models, equips students with the skills he once craved as an undergrad.
Lighting the Fire: “Why Not Me?”
For Jim, teaching isn’t just about lessons—it’s about moments.
“My favorite part of my week is walking my class.” He roots his teaching in personal experience, always trying to blend the best of his own college days with real-world business lessons:
“I reflect on my own collegiate learning experiences many years and I try to impart the best models into my class. Seeing students get the bug of entrepreneurship and begin to realize ‘why not me?’ is the ultimate reward for the hours of prep. I continue to help former students as they form their own companies and take the plunge!”
Jim’s Advice: Expand Your View
Jim’s tip for anyone on the entrepreneurial fence is simple but powerful:
“There is only upside from broadening your perspectives!”
No matter your major, background, or idea, take the leap. There’s a spot for everyone at CFE.
More Than Entrepreneurship
Outside the classroom, Jim’s zest for life is just as big. He’s a golfer, basketball fan, annual Costa Rica traveler, and live music lover. Proof that the entrepreneurial spirit carries far beyond business hours!
Ready to Catch the Entrepreneurial Bug?
Whether you’re itching to launch a startup or just looking to build skills that matter, Jim Fish and our CFE community are here to help you turn sparks into something real. Explore our courses, connect with our faculty, and start your own journey.