Mac Rincon: Teaching at WMU—the ultimate homecoming

After graduating from Western Michigan University with a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering and a master’s degree in engineering management, Mac Rincon dedicated 30 years to the Kellogg Company leading initiatives across supply chain, manufacturing, planning, research and development, sales and innovation, and global procurement. Then, in 2018, he had the opportunity to return to his alma mater to teach. Now Rincon is beginning his next chapter, retiring from his second career as a faculty specialist I in marketing.

“It has been incredibly rewarding to bring my decades of global industry experience to the Haworth College of Business and to mentor the next generation of leaders,” he says. 

Maintaining a rigorous teaching schedule with up to 400 students each semester, Rincon is especially proud of designing his courses to solve a challenge—in the true fashion of a former engineer. He wanted his larger courses to be engaging and interactive. “I am most proud of creating a classroom environment that bridges the gap between large lecture halls and personalized learning,” he notes.

Balancing the right elements in the classroom to keep courses valuable and meaningful is no easy feat—and it’s one Rincon has perfected throughout the years.

“I find enjoyment in integrating my professional experience into the classroom, providing students with practical, real-world context,” he says. And with 30 years to draw from, Rincon is able to create assignments that highlight the application of business theories in corporate settings. “Whether teaching Introduction to Global Business, Production Planning, Marketing Logistics, Business Enterprise or Continuous Improvement in Business, I strive to make every course a rewarding experience for my students.”

Rincon’s goal? To have students walk away with practical insights that serve as the foundation for fulfilling professional careers. And the WMU Haworth experience has exceeded his own expectations as well. “I am consistently impressed by our business students. They demonstrate a level of maturity and professionalism that is truly remarkable,” he says. “WMU Haworth is a special place. The warmth and helpfulness of the faculty and staff make it a joy to come to work every day. My time at WMU has been a wonderful chapter of my life, filled with professional growth and even better friendships.”

Rincon’s retirement plans for this next chapter include pursuing his passions. “As a licensed ham radio operator, I’m looking forward to spending more time on the airwaves, connecting with people around the world and continuing my volunteer work within the radio community. Beyond the airwaves, I have a long list of travel destinations I can’t wait to explore.”

As Rincon reflects on his teaching career, he feels deeply content. “Transitioning from Kellogg’s to the classroom has been a lifelong goal of mine. I have been blessed to spend these years at the Haworth College of Business.”

Learn more about the Haworth College of Business.

For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.