What happens when an engineer walks into the world of finance and real estate? Brett Olsen didn’t just pivot—he transformed a university program, helped launch countless careers, and built a bridge between theory and real-world success. If you’re curious about how practical education is shaping the next wave of real estate leaders, this episode is for you.

In this episode, we sit down with Brett Olsen, Head of the Finance and Real Estate Department at the University of Northern Iowa. Brett opens up about his surprising journey from mechanical engineering to academia, and how that shift fueled his passion for applied learning. He takes us behind the scenes of UNI’s evolving real estate program—from its roots in 1991 to its current focus on experiential education, national competitions, and market-ready graduates. Whether you’re a student, educator, or industry pro, Brett’s insights into career flexibility, program development, and industry cycles will leave you inspired and informed.

5 Fresh Takeaways:

• Brett’s move from engineering to finance proves that pivoting careers can bring fresh perspective and value to a new field.

• Brett highlights the importance of aligning classroom teaching with the cyclical nature of the real estate industry to better prepare students.

• National contests give students real exposure, pressure-tested experience, and team collaboration skills they can’t get from textbooks alone.

• While UNI is based in Iowa, the program actively encourages students to explore opportunities in booming national markets, expanding their horizons and confidence.

• Brett’s administrative and advisory roles reveal how faculty leadership goes beyond the classroom—impacting curriculum, career readiness, and long-term program success.

👤 About Brett Olsen:

Brett Olsen is a Professor and Head of the Finance Department at the University of Northern Iowa. Since 2010, he’s been teaching investment and financial management courses while conducting research in corporate governance, small business valuation, and investing. He also collaborates with UNI’s Business and Community Services to develop valuation strategies for small businesses. Before academia, Brett was a mechanical engineer at Caterpillar and later earned his PhD in Finance from the University of Missouri.

Contact Info:

LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/brettcolsen/

Website | https://business.uni.edu/finance/directory/brett-c-olsen