Thomas Vossen

Thomas Vossen is an Associate Professor in the Strategy, Entrepreneurship and Operations department at the Leeds School of Business, University of Colorado Boulder. He serves as the PhD Program Director and is affiliated with the Deming Center for Entrepreneurship, contributing to entrepreneurship education initiatives.

Dr. Vossen received his Ph.D. in Business and Management from the University of Maryland and his MS in Computer Science from Eindhoven University of Technology in the Netherlands. Before joining academia, he served in the Royal Dutch Navy as a Systems Analyst for the Naval Intelligence Department, bringing practical systems analysis experience to his academic work.

Vossen specializes in developing computer simulation and optimization models to solve complex business operational problems. His research bridges technical analytical methods with practical business applications, focusing on areas where mathematical modeling can improve decision-making processes in constrained environments. He has particular expertise in transportation systems and resource allocation problems where time-sensitive decisions impact long-term operational efficiency.

His publications demonstrate a consistent focus on applying optimization techniques to real-world constraints, with applications spanning aviation, mining operations, and supply chain management. These works reflect his approach of identifying the 'puzzle factor' in complex systems to develop practical solutions that balance multiple competing objectives.

• MBA Educator of Distinction Award
• MBA Teaching Excellence Award
• Kolb Teaching Award

Professor Vossen actively mentors doctoral students as PhD Program Director and engages undergraduate and MBA students through practical simulations. His Global Supply Chain Management Simulation allows students to manage virtual supply chains for companies like MillerCoors and Crocs, demonstrating how small operational changes create significant financial impact. His teaching philosophy emphasizes understanding interconnected systems and their cascading effects on business performance.

Through his affiliation with the Deming Center for Entrepreneurship, Vossen contributes to developing entrepreneurial thinking among students, particularly in applying analytical approaches to new venture operations and resource-constrained decision making. His naval background informs his approach to structured problem-solving under pressure and complex system management.