Carlos Rodriguez

Carlos R. Rodriguez joined Western Michigan University in October 2026 as Senior Vice President for Budget and Finance and Chief Financial Officer, following his tenure as Vice President for Administration and Chief Financial Officer at Michigan Technological University.

Rodriguez brings more than 20 years of leadership experience across higher education, the federal government, and the private sector, with expertise in financial management, strategic planning, organizational transformation, and operational excellence.

Prior to his time at Michigan Tech, Rodriguez held several leadership positions at The Pennsylvania State University, including Associate Vice President for Finance and Business Services, where he oversaw financial management and business operations across the University's 20 Commonwealth campuses.

Earlier in his career, Rodriguez held leadership positions in the federal government, managing multibillion-dollar budgets and contracts, leading financial modernization initiatives, and supporting congressional oversight and budget processes.

Throughout his career, Rodriguez has focused on strengthening financial sustainability, improving organizational effectiveness, and aligning institutional resources with strategic priorities. His leadership philosophy emphasizes transparency, accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Rodriguez is also a retired U.S. Army officer, having served 21 years before retiring in 2020.