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Poole College of Management
Jenkins Master of Management
Marketing Analytics

Mike Stanko

Professor of Marketing
919.515.0372
mastanko@ncsu.edu

Courses Taught

MBA 560 Marketing Management and Strategy

Areas of Expertise

  • Innovation and New Product Development
  • Digital Marketing and Crowdfunding
  • Marketing Strategy and Open Innovation

Education

  • Ph.D., Marketing, Michigan State University, 2008
  • B.B.A., Marketing and Finance, Wilfrid Laurier University, 1999

Research Interests

Dr. Mike Stanko’s research explores innovation, particularly beyond traditional firm boundaries. His work examines how companies engage with open-source communities, crowdfunding platforms, and collaborative partnerships to drive product development. He has published extensively in leading journals, including the Journal of Product Innovation Management, MIT Sloan Management Review, and Research Policy. His research on innovation strategies has earned numerous accolades, including the Poole Scholar distinction and multiple research grants.

Recent projects include studies on how crowdfunding influences innovation, the role of online communities in product development, and strategies for outsourcing innovation. His insights have helped companies understand how external collaboration impacts financial performance and market competitiveness.

Industry and Academic Contributions

Prior to academia, Dr. Stanko worked in marketing and product management roles in several technology-focused companies. These experiences inform his research and teaching, bridging academic theory with practical application.

Since joining Poole College in 2008, Dr. Stanko has been recognized for his excellence in teaching, receiving NC State’s Outstanding Teacher Award and multiple Poole College teaching honors. He has developed courses in marketing strategy and open innovation.

Student Engagement and Mentorship

Dr. Stanko is deeply invested in student success, frequently collaborating with students on research projects and case studies.

Why Poole College?

Dr. Stanko values Poole College’s emphasis on data-driven marketing and interdisciplinary collaboration. He appreciates the opportunity to blend research with hands-on student experiences, preparing graduates for dynamic careers in marketing and innovation.

Outside the Classroom

An avid musician, Dr. Stanko enjoys playing guitar. He is also an active athlete, participating in NC State’s intramural basketball league and coaching youth sports. Whether in the classroom, on the court, or playing music, he believes in the power of continuous improvement and lifelong learning.