Sign In

Rick Huijbregts

Strategy & Innovation. Education. Business & Digital Transformation. Smart Cities & Smart Buildings.

Professional Background

Dr. Rick Huijbregts is a prominent figure in the Canadian education and technology landscape, currently serving as the Vice-President of Strategy & Innovation at George Brown College. In this strategic leadership role, he plays a crucial part in overseeing strategic planning and partnership development, ensuring that George Brown College stays ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving digital world. His commitment to fostering community and industry innovation culminates in the creation of hands-on learning opportunities, allowing students to engage deeply in applied research and entrepreneurship.

Rick’s visionary role includes shaping the college’s strategic outlook towards 2030. His oversight of key areas such as the Registrar's Office, Marketing and Recruitment, Publishing, and the International Center demonstrates a comprehensive approach to education and student engagement. In addition, he spearheads initiatives around Alumni Relations, Strategic Partnerships, Applied Research, and Institutional Research, aligning educational offerings with the needs of the future workforce.

Career Achievements

Before his impactful tenure at George Brown College, Rick dedicated over 12 years to Cisco Systems, where he notably served as the Vice-President of Digital Transformation and Innovation for Cisco Canada. His outstanding contributions to municipal innovation earned him the esteemed Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012, highlighting his significant impact on enhancing smart city initiatives across Canada.

As a thought leader, Rick frequently shares his insights on innovation, digital transformation, and Smart Cities through various speaking engagements. His expertise is recognized across multiple Smart City advisory boards in cities like Toronto, Markham, and Vaughan, where he actively contributes to intersections of technology and urban development.

Academic Contributions

Rick also shares his wealth of knowledge as a faculty member at the Harvard University Graduate School of Design Executive Education, focusing on critical topics such as Smart Cities, Smart Buildings, and Digital Transformation. This role not only solidifies his standing in the academic community but also allows him to mentor the next generation of leaders in design and technology.

Education and Achievements

Rick Huijbregts boasts an impressive academic background, having earned a Doctorate from Harvard University Graduate School of Design, a Master’s of Science from the prestigious Delft University of Technology, and a Bachelor's degree in Construction Management from Avans University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands. This robust educational foundation complements his extensive professional experience and supports his innovative approach to leadership in education and technology.

Personal Life

Residing in Toronto, Ontario, Rick enjoys a supportive family life with his wife and two sons. His commitment to family and community aligns with his professional endeavors, fostering an environment where education and innovation thrive alongside personal values.

Achievements

  • Vice-President of Strategy & Innovation at George Brown College
  • Over 12 years of leadership at Cisco, culminating in roles focused on Digital Transformation and Smart Cities
  • Recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for contributions to municipal innovation in Canada
  • Faculty member at Harvard University Graduate School of Design Executive Education, specializing in Smart Cities and Digital Transformation
  • Active member of multiple Smart City advisory boards, influencing urban development policies
  • Doctorate from Harvard University Graduate School of Design and advanced degrees from Delft University of Technology and Avans University.

Related Questions

How does Rick Huijbregts envision the role of technology in shaping the future of post-secondary education in Canada?
What strategies does Rick Huijbregts implement to foster innovation and applied research at George Brown College?
How has Rick Huijbregts' experience at Cisco informed his current role at George Brown College?
In what ways does Rick Huijbregts contribute to Smart City initiatives in Toronto and other Canadian cities?
What unique insights does Rick Huijbregts bring to his role as a faculty member at Harvard University Graduate School of Design?
Rick Huijbregts
Add to my network

Location

Toronto, Ontario, Canada