Dr. José Riera, a practitioner-in-residence for the Department of Management at Appalachian State University, is advancing the university's mission at the Hickory campus.
Through AI‑focused pedagogy, career‑aligned capstones, and global experiences, students in Riera's courses are accomplishing major outcomes.
- MGT 3400 students recently developed two commercially viable AI agents with visiting entrepreneurs.
- Recent projects by MGT 4750 students have led to multiple job offers from firms including Forvis Mazars, Martin Starnes & Associates, and Wermo SA.
Outside the classroom, Riera is having just as big an impact. He co-created the first Hickory-campus-centered business faculty-led study abroad program (to Finland and Estonia), broadening global awareness. For his work, Riera received the 2025 Global Good Inspiring International Leaders Award, which celebrates those who ignite students’ passion for meaningful international experiences and a global mindset through mentorship, program leadership, or research.
Dr. José Riera
José Riera