Meet Dr. James Michael Burkett from our Prospera Regional Board in Central & Northeast Florida.
Prospera Regional Board member Dr. James Michael Burkett is a distinguished higher education executive, a Marine Corps veteran, and the proud recipient of the 2022 Hispanic Community Champion of the Year Award. Since 2016, he has served as the President of NUC University Florida Technical College (NUC FTC), and The DAVE School. Under his leadership, NUC FTC has grown into one of the state’s most robust and diverse sources of highly qualified talent. Dr. Burkett is committed to being a meaningful partner in advancing Prospera’s mission, working to empower more Hispanic entrepreneurs to succeed and achieve new levels of success in their business. Keep on reading to learn more about him –
What are your workplace mission and products/services?
Founded in 1982, NUC University Florida Technical College (NUC FTC) initially aimed to provide post-secondary training in specialized business fields. Over the years, NUC FTC’s programs have evolved dynamically to meet the changing needs of students and the job market. During Dr. Burkett’s tenure, NUC FTC has added blended learning options, Spanish only programs, expanded trades and hospitality program offerings, and achieved MSCHE accreditation as an academic unit of NUC University headquartered in Puerto Rico, among other innovations in academic progress and excellence.
NUC FTC is not just a place of learning but a hub of community engagement through its FTC Cares program. This initiative extends NUC FTC’s influence beyond its campuses, fostering strong partnerships with local businesses, educational institutions, civic organizations, and community stakeholders. Such collaborations enrich the educational experience at NUC FTC, cultivate meaningful relationships, and promote mutual growth.
Recognizing its role within the community, NUC FTC actively participates in state-wide initiatives focused on creating a tangible and enduring impact. These efforts underscore NUC FTC’s commitment to transforming communities, improving individual lives, and contributing significantly to regional development. Through these initiatives, NUC FTC continues to demonstrate its dedication to serving and enhancing the fabric of Florida’s diverse communities.
What motivated you to serve on Prospera’s board as a volunteer?
My motivation to serve on Prospera’s board as a volunteer stems from my personal journey as a non-traditional student. Starting college after my service in the Marine Corps, while balancing full-time work and single parenthood, I intimately understand the challenges and rewards of perseverance and hard work.
My decision to join Prospera’s board is rooted in my belief that everyone deserves opportunities for growth and success, regardless of background. As the president of an educational institution, I am dedicated to increasing Hispanic representation in executive positions, fostering partnerships with organizations that promote Latino well-being, and expanding scholarships to break down barriers to career advancement for minorities.
By leveraging my experiences and values, I aim to contribute meaningfully to Prospera’s mission of empowering Hispanic entrepreneurs and strengthening communities across the region.
What have you enjoyed the most so far about serving on Prospera’s board?
Prospera is an organization driven by purpose and passion, where every member is dedicated to empowering Hispanic entrepreneurs. It’s an organization with a clear mission to deliver tangible value to Hispanic entrepreneurs, with every initiative carefully measured for its impact.
I see Prospera as a force for good, serving as a cultural accelerator that helps Hispanic companies elevate from ‘good to great’. As a board member, it’s a privilege to collaborate with Florida’s top executives and changemakers who are dedicated to making a significant difference in our communities.
What would you most like the local community to know about Prospera?
What I would most like the local community to know about Prospera is that every single service we offer is completely free of charge. This includes an array of resources provided by key leaders, all available in both Spanish and English. Prospera provides bilingual assistance specifically tailored to Hispanic entrepreneurs who are looking to start or grow their businesses.
At Prospera, they are dedicated to empowering Hispanic small business owners through a range of specialized services. These include comprehensive training programs, expert consulting, advancement services to help businesses reach their next level of growth, and access to capital to support their initiatives. Their goal is to ensure that Hispanic entrepreneurs have the tools and support they need to succeed in today’s competitive business environment.
Which are the three words that best describe you?
Three words that best describe me are dedicated, visionary, and compassionate.
What is the most important lesson you’ve learned throughout your career?
The most important lesson I’ve learned throughout my career is the power of perseverance. Whether facing challenges in education, the military, or leadership roles in academia, I’ve found that determination and resilience are key to overcoming obstacles and achieving success. Each setback has taught me valuable lessons and reinforced the importance of staying focused on long-term goals while adapting to evolving circumstances. This lesson has shaped my leadership style and continues to guide me in fostering growth and opportunity for others.
How do you achieve work/life balance?
I’m deeply committed to my work—I’m always engaged and driven to make a difference. However, coaching my son’s 12-year-old football team is more than just bonding time; it’s a vital aspect of how I recharge outside of my professional responsibilities. It allows me to maintain a strong connection with my family and community.
Moreover, coaching provides a unique opportunity for me to pass on the leadership skills and lessons I’ve learned throughout my career to the next generation of professionals. It’s immensely fulfilling to guide young athletes, teaching them teamwork, discipline, and resilience—qualities that are essential not only on the football field but also in their future endeavors. This involvement enriches my life in profound ways, ensuring that I approach both work and personal life with renewed energy and a broader perspective.
How do you stay informed about trends in your industry?
Staying informed about trends in my industry is crucial, and I achieve this by reading extensively. Whether it’s industry publications, research papers, or relevant articles, I make it a priority to stay updated on emerging trends, innovations, and best practices. This constant learning allows me to anticipate changes, adapt strategies, and lead my institution effectively in a rapidly evolving educational landscape. By staying informed, I ensure that NUC University Florida Technical College, and The DAVE School remain at the forefront of educational excellence and innovation.
Where is your favorite place to have a meeting outside of the office?
My favorite place to have a meeting outside of the office is any of the FTC campuses. I find it incredibly rewarding to witness the first impressions of visitors as they understand the breadth of our work and how we are transforming education. Being on campus allows me to directly experience the impact of our efforts and connect with the vibrant community of students, faculty, and staff who are dedicated to our mission. It’s inspiring to see our vision come to life in such a dynamic environment.
Which social media platform do you use most frequently?
What is one item still on your bucket list?
Do I have to choose just one? I have several goals on my bucket list.
