Industry Alumni Program

The Industry Alumni Program connects experienced technology professionals and former Cisco leaders with NIIN initiatives. Alumni contribute strategic insight, technical expertise and mentorship to support applied research, strengthen industry engagement, and accelerate the translation of innovation into real-world impact.

Our Alumni

Andrew McLean headshot

Andrew McLean

Professor of Practice
University of Technology Sydney

Professor Andrew McLean has held senior leadership roles across telecommunications and digital infrastructure, with deep experience in large-scale transformation and industry collaboration. As part of the NIIN Industry Alumni Program, he provides strategic guidance and industry insight to support the development and deployment of practical, scalable solutions.

Headshot of Richard Dodsworth

Richard Dodsworth

Professor of Practice
Flinders University

Professor Richard Dodsworth brings extensive experience in technology leadership, digital transformation and innovation strategy. Through the NIIN Industry Alumni Program, he supports industry–university collaboration, contributing strategic direction and ensuring projects are aligned to real industry challenges and opportunities.

Headshot of Drago Sijan

Drago Sijan

Professor of Practice
La Trobe University

Professor Drago Sijan has extensive experience across cyber security, digital technologies and complex systems. Through the NIIN Industry Alumni Program, he contributes technical expertise, strategic insight and mentorship to help guide innovation projects and accelerate real-world outcomes.

Headshot of Rob De Nicolo

Rob De Nicolo

Professor of Practice
RMIT

Professor Rob De Nicolo is an experienced technology executive with a strong background in innovation delivery, industry engagement and enterprise systems. As a member of the NIIN Industry Alumni Program, he provides mentorship and strategic input to support applied research and the development of industry-relevant solutions.