Dr. Ron Cox

President, Midwest Workforce Strategies and Inventor of the Workforce Vector

​​Ron Cox applies the rigorous mathematics of aircraft design to solve complex labor market challenges. As the president of Midwest Workforce Strategies and inventor of the Workforce Vector framework, Ron moves organizations beyond guesswork, using data analytics to help executives and boards engineer lasting retention and recruitment solutions.​

 

Ron’s unique perspective is built on a dual career in engineering design and economic development. He began his career in aerodynamics, working on military aircraft and early testing for the Boeing 757 and 767. He transitioned to academia and leadership as the Director of the Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS), where he managed a $9 million budget and led a team serving 1,500 companies annually. Under his leadership, clients reported an annual economic impact of over $600 million and the creation or retention of 5,000 jobs.

 

His operational expertise runs deep, with previous administrative oversight of engineering, HR, finance, IT, and online education units.​Today, Ron is a "Legend in Manufacturing" award winner and a sought-after keynote speaker. He delivers talks on workforce topics such as "The Workforce Hype Cycle," helping diverse industries, from manufacturing to healthcare, turn workforce shortages into competitive advantages.